Operations Assistant Manager Part-time - Northampton

River Valley Market•Northampton, MA

About The Position

River Valley Co-op is hiring a part-time Operations Assistant Manager to supervise storewide personnel and operations during designated shifts, supporting sales, service, safety, and efficiency. The role ensures security, cleanliness, compliance, and smooth general operations, and maintains facility and equipment functionality through minor repairs and coordination with service vendors. The Operations Assistant Manager supervises all store staff when the Operations Manager is absent and works regular opening and closing shifts, including evenings and weekends. The position supports the Co-op’s mission of creating a just marketplace that nourishes the community and its commitment to social justice, anti-racism, multicultural skills, sustainability, and positive community impact. The role reports to the Operations Manager and is a non-exempt, Pay Level VI position.

Requirements

Previous supervisory experience.
Previous retail grocery work history.
Strong, demonstrated communication skills, including listening and giving clear instructions.
Experience developing systems and procedures and carrying them through to results.
Demonstrated calmness and decision-making under pressure.
Ability to solve practical problems and handle situations with limited standardization.
Ability to read and interpret business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
Ability to balance multiple priorities and manage time against weekly reporting deadlines and other time-sensitive assignments.
Knowledge of health department regulations for retail food stores.
Retail merchandising experience.
Outstanding customer service skills.
General mechanical aptitude and skills with standard hand and power tools.
Current, valid Massachusetts driver’s license.
Personal vehicle that can reliably transport employees to and from work and remains available during shifts.
Ability to pass a driver’s background investigation without citations, points, or areas of concern.
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to present information effectively and respond to questions from managers, committees, suppliers, customers, and staff.
Ability to read and comprehend instructions.
Ability to work collaboratively as a team player and follow through on systems, procedures, and policies.
Ability to work efficiently and safely in a fast-paced environment and adapt quickly to changing conditions.
Ability to use computers and applicable software, specifically Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
Demonstrated ability to work with customers and coworkers from various cultural backgrounds.
Willingness to regularly work evenings and at least one weekend shift.
Regular, predictable attendance and availability beyond scheduled hours.
Ability to exert well-paced mobility for up to 8 hours, including standing, walking, bending, and squatting.
Ability to use hands or fingers to handle or feel and perform repetitive grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine manipulation.
Close and distance vision abilities.
Ability to use office equipment, including a computer, Point of Sale system, scanner, fax, and copier.
Ability to work in cold, wet conditions.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds.
Ability to commute between Co-op locations.

Nice To Haves

Experience with natural and local foods in retail or wholesale.
Ability to speak Spanish, French, or Swahili.

Responsibilities

Mediate and resolve workplace conflicts as needed.
Oversee storewide workflow and supervise staff in the absence of a manager, including setting direction and priorities.
Monitor department break schedules and logs to ensure staff receive scheduled breaks while departments remain staffed.
Observe department conditions and address discrepancies, out-of-stocks, performance issues, and other concerns with responsible staff; follow up with the Operations Manager and other managers as needed.
Work regular opening and closing shifts, including evenings and weekends.
Participate in hiring, including applicant screening and interviews, and assist with on-the-job training and staff skill development.
Ensure storewide opening and closing procedures are completed.
Conduct store walks to ensure the store is stocked and clean, and keep common areas, bathrooms, and outdoor areas neat and clean.
Ensure customer and staff safety practices are followed, including fire safety and prevention of slips and falls.
Handle customer questions and complaints that other staff cannot resolve and support excellent internal and external customer service.
Ensure store policies and procedures are followed and take corrective action as needed.
Address shoplifting, disorderly customers, medical emergencies, and other emergencies using established procedures; lead the store through emergencies as Manager on Duty and follow Emergency Action Plans.
Support and manage customer service functions, including cashier support, opening checkout lanes, and processing orders when needed.
Cover breaks and staffing shortages in other departments, including counter service, packaging, receiving, and stocking.
Drive the Co-op’s vehicle and a personal vehicle to transport staff and/or equipment.
Represent the Co-op professionally and uphold its dignity and respect guidelines and Code of Conduct with staff, customers, vendors, and visitors.
Order supplies according to vendor guidelines and cost-control considerations.
Know food safety regulations and ensure departments follow them, including requirements for receiving, storage, and time and temperature controls for safety.
Model warm, welcoming, informed service and support staff in meeting that standard.
Troubleshoot equipment breakdowns using procedures established by the Operations Manager.
Coordinate and oversee storewide cleaning and operational projects as directed.
Support and maintain existing systems and recommend improvements when needed.
Coordinate and ensure store operational repairs and maintenance in the absence of the Operations Manager.
Maintain facility and equipment repair and maintenance records and logs; complete minor repairs.
Participate in developing store business plans and operating and capital budgets.
Participate in developing and implementing staff training programs and in developing store policies and procedures.
Attend and participate in department and storewide meetings.
Perform other tasks assigned by the Operations Manager.