Thrift Associate – Dayton Humane & Co.

The Humane Society of Greater Dayton is proud to be a no-kill organization that has been serving the animals and people of the Miami Valley since 1902. To put that into perspective, we have been committed to the animals in our community before the Wright Brothers invented flight! Our mission is to build a community in which all animals are valued and free from suffering, and life is enhanced through the relationships with pets.

Dayton Humane & Co. Resale Boutique is a boutique-style store that sells high-quality, gently used, and new items for low prices. All net proceeds directly support the innovative lifesaving programs of The Humane Society of Greater Dayton, a 501(c)(3) animal welfare organization.

Position Summary:

The Thrift Associate at Dayton Humane & Co. Resale Boutique is essential in delivering strong sales and service results, with customer satisfaction as the top priority. This location serves over 100 customers daily, and the Thrift Associate is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked store, assisting with donation processing, and ensuring smooth operation during assigned shifts. This role includes collaborating with volunteers and assisting in their training and scheduling. Shifts may vary based on store needs and may include evenings and weekends.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Customer Service:
  Provide an exceptional shopping experience, assist with product inquiries, and help customers with transactions and rewards program sign-ups. Resolve customer complaints fairly, referring unresolved issues to the Store Manager.
• Volunteer Support:
  Work with volunteers, ensuring they feel welcomed and valued. Assist in training, task assignments, and creating a positive team environment.
• Donation Processing:
  Greet donors, accept and process donations, and ensure efficient sorting, pricing, and preparation for the sales floor.
• Inventory and Store Presentation:
  Maintain the sales floor by restocking items, organizing merchandise, and setting up displays to uphold the boutique’s high-end ambiance. Ensure store cleanliness, including sweeping and organizing hangers, carts, and baskets.
• Cashiering and Sales Support:
  Operate the register accurately, manage cash and card transactions, and ensure proper opening and closing procedures. Support daily administrative tasks as needed.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Assist with pick-up and delivery of donations as needed to support store operations.
• Attend team meetings and training sessions to stay informed on store operations and customer service expectations.
• Participate in planning and executing store events or vendor markets as directed by the Store Manager.

Minimum Position Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent.
• At least one (1) year of retail experience is preferred
• Friendly, energetic personality with strong customer service skills.
• Ability to handle transactions accurately and responsibly.
• Flexibility to work weekends.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Positive attitude and helpful, courteous approach to resolving customer questions.
• Ability to work unsupervised when needed and remain productive.
• Knowledge of antiques, vintage, retro, or collectible items is a plus
• Strong commitment to the mission of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton and Dayton Humane & Co.
• Proficient in verbal and written communication, able to present ideas logically, clearly, and concisely.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented; able to prioritize tasks, and adapt quickly.
• Familiarity with point-of-sale systems (Square, Clover) and associated CRM functions is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams, including staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Extensive computer skills and familiarity with office equipment.
• Flexibility, resilience, and the capacity to work effectively under varied conditions, maintaining a positive and professional demeanor.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record for duties requiring transportation.

Daily Contacts:

• Potential donors: individuals and companies
• Dayton Humane & Co customers, employees, volunteers, and vendors
• Humane Society of Greater Dayton employees and other not-for-profit groups

Direct Reports:

None.

Physical Demands:

The following physical requirements are representative of those necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations will be considered to support individuals with disabilities in fulfilling these requirements:

• The employee is continuously required to stand, reach, and handle equipment with upper extremities;
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 15-40 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds;
• Specific vision requirements include the ability to focus on objects at varying distances, maintain clear close and distance vision, and perceive depth accurately.

Work Environment:

 The work environment characteristics described here represent those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Fast-paced retail setting focused on customer satisfaction, volunteer engagement, and boutique ambiance.
• Must be comfortable interacting with customers and volunteers, maintaining a polished appearance for the store.
• This position involves a dynamic retail environment and occasional exposure to noise and the elements.
• Work-related stress is occasional