Beer, Wine & Spirits Department Head

Community Food Coop • Bellingham, WA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

We’re a community-owned natural foods grocery store passionate about high-quality food, sustainability, and the cooperative business model. Our mission is rooted in serving our community while creating a workplace that is inclusive, engaging, and supportive. We strive to set a high standard for employment practices by fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and growth. We’re looking for positive, self-motivated people who take pride in delivering excellent customer service, value the quality of their work, show up reliably for their team, and enjoy working together to make a meaningful impact.

The Wine, Beer & Spirits (WBS) Department Head performs all duties of a Grocery Team Member while overseeing the day-to-day operations and success of the wine, beer, and spirits department. This includes maintaining clean, well-merchandised displays, developing promotional displays, selecting and ordering products, and collaborating with the Grocery Category Manager on pricing and promotions. This role supports the Grocery team by providing subject-matter expertise, training, and clear communication. This is a non-supervisory leadership role that contributes to department sales, margin, and customer service goals.

Requirements

• At least 1–2 years of experience working in grocery retail, preferably in wine, beer, or specialty foods.
• Strong commitment to providing excellent customer service.
• Interest in and ability to gain product knowledge in the wine, beer, and spirits categories.
• Strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills.
• Valid Washington State Food Worker Card (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency with basic computer programs (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, email).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Washington State MAST Permit and Food Handler Card.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with merchandising, ordering systems, or retail inventory management and knowledge of industry trends, vendor relations, or category performance analysis preferred.
• May be required to obtain forklift certification to operate a forklift or other material handling equipment.

Responsibilities

• Provide excellent, inclusive, and professional customer service to shoppers and coworkers.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with team members, customers, and vendors.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of co-op principles and values; explain co-op membership and benefits to customers.
• Attend department and all-staff meetings to stay informed and share updates.
• Act as the primary point of contact for the WBS section; provide guidance to Grocery Team Members on department standards and processes.
• Train staff on relevant tasks including stocking, signage, and back stock organization.
• Help establish and communicate organizational systems to ensure product accessibility and support for team members.
• Collaborate with the Grocery Category Manager on product selection, promotions, and pricing strategies.
• Build and maintain dynamic, off-shelf displays for seasonal, featured, and promotional items.
• Stay informed on industry trends, customer preferences, and new product offerings; regularly review sales reports.
• Ensure WBS displays are clean, well-organized, accurately signed, and visually appealing.
• Maintain an effective ordering system to ensure consistent stock levels and product freshness.
• Organize and rotate back stock according to First In, First Out (FIFO) standards.
• Coordinate with the Pricing Department to manage new items, vendor updates, promotions, and price changes.
• Follow all applicable laws and policies related to the sale and handling of alcohol.
• Ensure product is stored and merchandised in accordance with safety, sanitation, and health department standards.
• Operate equipment safely and ensure compliance with Co-op policies and procedures.
• Perform regular Grocery Team Member duties as scheduled.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Terms and conditions of employment, including wages, benefits, and working conditions, are governed by the collective bargaining agreement between the Community Food Co-op and the union.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed