Grocery Assistant Department Manager at Community Food Coop

Bellingham, Washington, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

21 Jan, 26

Salary

26.89

Posted On

23 Oct, 25

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Customer Service, Inventory Management, Team Leadership, Food Safety, Merchandising, Communication, Scheduling, Organizational Skills, Vendor Relations, Sales Strategies, Data Tracking, Problem Solving, Training, Collaboration, Quality Control, Market Trends

Industry

Retail Groceries

Description

Description Who We Are We are a community-owned natural foods grocery store. We’re passionate about the Co-op business model, quality food, and our community! We are driven to provide a workplace that engages our team members and raises the bar for excellent employment practices. We strive to create a feeling of inclusivity with all employees and customers. We look for positive people who have a passion for customer service, have fun while working hard, are self-motivated, and want to be a part of a growing team. Position Summary: The Assistant Grocery Manager supports the Grocery Manager in overseeing the daily operations of the Grocery Department, including Center Store, Bulk, Dairy/Frozen, Beer, Wine & Spirits, and Night Crew. This role helps ensure high-quality product selection, excellent customer service, and an engaged, well-trained staff. The Assistant Grocery Manager assists with inventory management, merchandising, and compliance with food safety standards while fostering teamwork, supporting financial goals, and driving sales through effective operations and marketing strategies. Wage Range: $25.25 – $26.89 Schedule: Varies, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Reports to: Grocery Manager General Responsibilities: Department Leadership & Team Support Assist the Grocery Manager in overseeing daily department operations and workflow across Center Store, Bulk, Dairy/Frozen, Beer, Wine & Spirits, and Night Crew. Support high standards for product quality, freshness, and presentation. Help ensure compliance with company policies, safety regulations, and health requirements. Train, develop, and mentor department staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. Assist with scheduling staff effectively using scheduling software (e.g., Paylocity) while staying within budget. Provide feedback, coaching, and assist with performance evaluations to support staff growth and success. Customer Service & Product Knowledge Model and support excellent customer service within the department and throughout the Co-op. Assist with training staff on customer service expectations and food safety practices. Ensure staff understand and communicate store policies effectively. Respond to customer inquiries and comment forms promptly and professionally. Maintain knowledge of department product offerings, including sourcing, quality, and handling. Train staff to effectively communicate this information to customers, particularly regarding local, organic, and specialty products. Operational Efficiency & Inventory Management Maintain clean, organized storage, stocking, and display areas. Ensure proper handling and storage of grocery products to maintain quality and safety. Assist in monitoring inventory levels, ensuring proper stock rotation to minimize waste and out-of-stocks. Conduct quality checks and remove items that do not meet standards. Help manage shrink through best practices in ordering, handling, and storage. Report department equipment issues promptly and assist with maintenance tracking. Financial Management & Data Reporting Support the Grocery Manager in meeting department sales, margin, and budgetary goals. Assist with tracking and controlling costs, including shrink management and accurate receiving logs. Help maintain pricing structures aligned with financial objectives. Support data tracking related to sales, inventory, and shrink to inform ordering and pricing decisions. Vendor & Supplier Relations Work with the Grocery Manager to build and maintain strong relationships with vendors. Assist in coordinating deliveries and ensuring proper product availability. Help maintain accurate vendor communications regarding inventory needs and concerns. Compliance & Safety Ensure all grocery products are handled and stored according to food safety and Co-op standards. Support staff education on food safety practices, proper labeling, and compliance requirements. Monitor department compliance with health and safety regulations. Merchandising & Marketing Assist with developing creative displays and promotions to showcase seasonal, local, and featured grocery products. Collaborate with the marketing team to highlight unique product offerings. Stay informed about market trends and customer preferences to support sales. Additional Responsibilities Participate in storewide initiatives, meetings, and events as required. Keep the Grocery Manager informed of any issues, challenges, or opportunities. Assist with special order systems and ensure efficient department functioning. Clearly explain the Co-op's membership system while promoting and upholding its Principles and Mission. Perform other tasks assigned by the Store or Grocery Manager. Requirements Qualifications: Minimum of 1 year in a retail environment or similar role, with leadership experience preferred. Experience working with vendors preferred. Knowledge of food safety regulations and industry best practices. Strong leadership and organizational abilities. Excellent customer service and communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams), inventory management systems, and scheduling software (e.g., Paylocity). General understanding of merchandising techniques, inventory control, and team management. Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods of time, with frequent movement around the store. Manual dexterity to handle and stock products, operate equipment, and perform other department tasks. Ability to reach, grasp, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds, both individually and with assistance. Ability to push, pull, and maneuver carts, pallets, and equipment throughout the department and store. Must be able to work in varying temperature conditions, including refrigerated and frozen storage areas. Benefits at the Co-op: Up to 25% staff discount & access to wholesale orders Great medical/dental/vision and supplemental insurance options 401(k) w/match Paid time off Pay on Demand Potential year-end bonus Access to employee assistance program Important Disclaimer: Employees are expected to act in the best interest of the Co-op, even if doing so requires actions or responsibilities not listed in the above job description. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by those assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities required of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned which are not considered essential and may not be listed here.

Responsibilities

The Assistant Grocery Manager supports the Grocery Manager in overseeing daily operations of the Grocery Department, ensuring high-quality product selection and excellent customer service. This role involves training staff, managing inventory, and driving sales through effective operations and marketing strategies.