Bookstore Assistant Manager
About The Position
We're seeking a dependable, experienced Assistant Manager (Key Carrier) to oversee daily store operations and deliver an exceptional customer experience. This role requires someone reliable, organized, and confident managing the store independently, including opening and closing, monitoring communications, supervising staff, and maintaining operational flow during full shifts. The ideal candidate brings strong bookstore or retail leadership experience, deep knowledge of books across genres, and genuine enthusiasm for handselling. You thrive in a customer-facing environment and understand the rhythm of bookstore operations, from inventory management to event support to creating memorable moments for every reader who walks through our doors.
Requirements
- 1–2+ years of bookstore or retail management experience required; independent bookstore experience preferred
- Experience with Ingram iPage and book wholesale ordering systems required
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
- Excellent customer service abilities with a warm, approachable demeanor
- POS and digital transaction experience required (Square, Shopify, or similar)
- Ability to lift up to 30 lbs., shelve books, and stand for extended periods
- Full-shift availability required (10:30 AM – 6:30 PM), including weekends and evenings
- Genuine passion for books, literacy, and building community through reading
Nice To Haves
- independent bookstore experience preferred
Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary key carrier, responsible for opening and closing the store, securing the premises, and completing end-of-day procedures
- Oversee daily operations, ensuring the store remains clean, organized, fully stocked, and welcoming
- Monitor the bookstore email inbox throughout each shift and respond or escalate messages as needed
- Lead full shifts with professionalism, sound judgment, and a customer-first mindset
- Support booksellers by providing direction, answering questions, and modeling excellent service
- Deliver outstanding customer service by greeting, assisting, and engaging every visitor
- Handsell books with confidence and maintain strong working knowledge of genres, new arrivals, and featured titles
- Foster an inclusive, warm, and inviting atmosphere for all readers
- Receive, unpack, tag, shelve, and organize new books and merchandise
- Place and manage orders through Ingram iPage and other wholesale distributors
- Maintain visually appealing displays, ensuring featured titles and staff picks are regularly refreshed
- Track inventory levels and communicate restock needs or concerns to leadership
- Operate the digital POS system accurately and efficiently (we are a 100% digital transaction environment)
- Process all sales, exchanges, and refunds correctly
- Support store performance through thoughtful product recommendations and awareness of sales goals
- Prepare for scheduled bookstore events, including setup, signage, and materials
- Assist with author talks, book signings, workshops, and community gatherings
- Manage customer flow and maintain a welcoming experience during events
- Train and coach booksellers on store systems, service standards, and inventory processes
- Communicate proactively with leadership regarding staffing, inventory, or operational needs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
