Beer, Wine & Spirits Department Head

Community Food Coop • Bellingham, WA

9h • $23 - $27 • Onsite

About The Position

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.
• Experience with merchandising, ordering systems, or retail inventory management and knowledge of industry trends, vendor relations, or category performance analysis preferred.
• 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).
• May be required to obtain forklift certification to operate a forklift or other material handling equipment.
• 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.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours per shift) in a fast-paced retail environment while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor.
• Frequent reaching above shoulders and crouching below waist level to stock shelves and build displays.
• Regular bending, twisting, and repetitive motion while handling glass bottles, cases, and signage materials.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 60 lbs regularly.
• Ability to safely operate equipment such as pallet jacks, ladders, step stools, and forklifts (certification/training provided as needed).
• Comfortable working in environments with moderate to loud noise levels, including music, paging systems, and equipment.
• Visual and manual dexterity required for reading labels, pricing product, and creating displays.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with merchandising, ordering systems, or retail inventory management and knowledge of industry trends, vendor relations, or category performance analysis.

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