Front End Assistant Department Manager

Community Food Coop•Bellingham, WA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Front-End Manager supports the Front-End Manager in overseeing daily department operations, ensuring smooth checkout experiences, and handling escalated customer service concerns. This role supervises cashiers and Person-in-Charge (PIC) staff, assisting with training, scheduling, and performance management. As a leader in the Front End, the Assistant Manager plays a key role in setting the tone for customer interactions, maintaining efficiency, and upholding Co-op standards.

Requirements

Leadership experience in a retail or customer service setting.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills to mentor and motivate teams.
Excellent problem-solving and de-escalation skills, remaining calm under pressure.
Ability to act as a first responder to customer service concerns, ensuring positive resolutions.
Knowledge of cash handling procedures, loss prevention, and compliance standards.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams) for communication, tracking, and reporting.
Commitment to creating a welcoming, customer-focused environment.
Stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours).
Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
Bend, reach, crouch, and stoop frequently.
Use hands for scanning, typing, and operating POS systems.
Read screens and small print; hear and respond in a busy environment.
Push and pull carts and supply bins.
Communicate clearly with staff, customers, and vendors.
Work in varying temperatures, including coolers and freezers.

Nice To Haves

Experience using scheduling software (e.g., Paylocity) to manage staff schedules preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist in supervising and supporting Front-End staff, including hiring, training, and coaching.
Act as a mentor to cashiers and PICs, reinforcing high-quality customer service.
Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional team culture.
Serve as the face of the Co-op, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
Act as the first responder to escalated customer service issues, resolving concerns professionally.
Support cashiers and PICs with complex transactions or service challenges.
Promote a customer-first culture through leadership and example.
Assist in managing daily Front-End operations, including scheduling and workflow.
Oversee cash handling procedures and ensure accuracy in transactions.
Maintain department resources, including PLUs, manuals, and training materials.
Work across departments to support storewide initiatives.
Monitor and enforce loss prevention policies, ensuring adherence to security protocols.
Support PIC staff in implementing theft prevention strategies.
Maintain accurate records of loss prevention incidents and follow-up actions.
Ensure efficient handling of customer inquiries, returns, and exchanges.
Support curbside and special order fulfillment to maintain accuracy and timeliness.
Provide ongoing training and development opportunities for Front-End staff.
Communicate expectations, goals, and feedback effectively.
Assist in identifying and implementing process improvements for efficiency and customer experience.
Step in as a cashier, PIC, or service desk associate when needed.
Participate in storewide initiatives, meetings, and events as required.
Keep the Department and Store Managers informed of any issues, challenges, or opportunities.
Clearly explain the Co-op's membership system while promoting and upholding its Principles and Mission.
Perform other tasks assigned by the FE or Store Manager.