Retail Associate

Chicago Architecture Center•Chicago, IL

2h•$18 - $19

About The Position

The Retail Associate supports the Chicago Architecture Center’s mission by delivering an outstanding guest experience in both locations of The Design Store. As the first point of contact for many visitors, this role combines customer service, product knowledge, and sales to create a welcoming and engaging environment. Retail Associates maintain store standards, share knowledge of all CAC’s offerings, and support daily operations. This role is ideal for someone passionate about design, architecture, and Chicago, with a strong interest in hospitality and retail.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent preferred, but not required.
Prior retail or customer service experience preferred.
High level of comfort with technology is preferred.
Friendly and engaging demeanor with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
Able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs. as needed.

Nice To Haves

Experience in cultural institutions, museums, or non-profit environments is a plus.
Interest in design, architecture, and/or Chicago history is a plus.
Familiarity with Chicago is a plus.

Responsibilities

Greeting and assisting customers in selecting CAC-branded merchandise, design-forward gifts, and architecture-focused publications.
Provide a welcoming and informative experience to guests from around the world, helping them find meaningful souvenirs and gifts.
Work collaboratively with CAC volunteers to ensure a seamless and engaging guest experience.
Demonstrate deep knowledge of CAC programs, tours, and events to assist with guest questions and encourage participation in broader CAC offerings.
Operate the POS system accurately and efficiently to process merchandise sales, returns, and exchanges.
Basic level knowledge of operating ticketing systems to process ticket sales, returns, and exchanges for general public guests and CAC members.
Basic level knowledge of operating ticketing systems to sell CAC Memberships.
Ability to communicate the benefits of membership to guests, ensuring they understand the value of joining the Chicago Architecture Center.
Maintain a clean, organized, and visually appealing sales floor by restocking merchandise, dusting, folding, straightening displays, cleaning listening devices, restocking brochures, and other guest-facing materials.
Monitor inventory levels and communicate stock needs to the Retail Manager or Coordinator.
Support opening and closing procedures, including counting drawers, preparing deposits, and securing the sales area.
Assist with unpacking shipments, tagging merchandise, and backstock organization as needed.
Collaborate with team members and leadership to meet daily sales goals and uphold service standards.
Stay informed of organizational updates, policies, and changes to programming to provide guests with accurate, up-to-date information.
Support operational needs during peak times, including managing crowd flow and assisting with special events.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support retail and cross-departmental CAC operations.