Front End Assistant Department Manager

Description

Who We Are

We’re a community-owned natural foods grocery store passionate about high-quality food, sustainability, and the cooperative business model. Our mission is rooted in serving our community while creating a workplace that is inclusive, engaging, and supportive. We strive to set a high standard for employment practices by fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and growth. We’re looking for positive, motivated people who take pride in delivering excellent customer service, value the quality of their work, show up reliably for their team, and enjoy working together to make a meaningful impact every day.

Job Title: Front End Assistant Manager

Department: Front End / Cashier

Reports To: Front End Department Manager

Wage Range: $26.13 - $27.83

Status: Full Time, Non-Exempt

Schedule: Varies – will include AM/PM shifts along with weekends and holidays

Position Summary

The Assistant Front-End Manager supports the Front-End Manager in overseeing daily department operations, ensuring smooth checkout experiences, and handling escalated customer service concerns. This role supervises cashiers and Person-in-Charge (PIC) staff, assisting with training, scheduling, and performance management. As a leader in the Front End, the Assistant Manager plays a key role in setting the tone for customer interactions, maintaining efficiency, and upholding Co-op standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Team Leadership

• Assist in supervising and supporting Front-End staff, including hiring, training, and coaching.
• Act as a mentor to cashiers and PICs, reinforcing high-quality customer service.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional team culture.

1. Customer Service & De-Escalation

• Serve as the face of the Co-op, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
• Act as the first responder to escalated customer service issues, resolving concerns professionally.
• Support cashiers and PICs with complex transactions or service challenges.
• Promote a customer-first culture through leadership and example.

1. Operational Oversight

• Assist in managing daily Front-End operations, including scheduling and workflow.
• Oversee cash handling procedures and ensure accuracy in transactions.
• Maintain department resources, including PLUs, manuals, and training materials.
• Work across departments to support storewide initiatives.

1. Loss Prevention & Compliance

• Monitor and enforce loss prevention policies, ensuring adherence to security protocols.
• Support PIC staff in implementing theft prevention strategies.
• Maintain accurate records of loss prevention incidents and follow-up actions.

1. Service Desk & Order Fulfillment

• Ensure efficient handling of customer inquiries, returns, and exchanges.
• Support curbside and special order fulfillment to maintain accuracy and timeliness.

1. Performance & Process Improvement

• Provide ongoing training and development opportunities for Front-End staff.
• Communicate expectations, goals, and feedback effectively.
• Assist in identifying and implementing process improvements for efficiency and customer experience.

1. Other Duties as Assigned

• Step in as a cashier, PIC, or service desk associate when needed.
• Participate in storewide initiatives, meetings, and events as required.
• Keep the Department and Store Managers informed of any issues, challenges, or opportunities.
• Clearly explain the Co-op's membership system while promoting and upholding its Principles and Mission.
• Perform other tasks assigned by the FE or Store Manager.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in a retail or customer service setting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to mentor and motivate teams.
• Excellent problem-solving and de-escalation skills, remaining calm under pressure.
• Ability to act as a first responder to customer service concerns, ensuring positive resolutions.
• Knowledge of cash handling procedures, loss prevention, and compliance standards.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams) for communication, tracking, and reporting.
• Experience using scheduling software (e.g., Paylocity) to manage staff schedules preferred.
• Commitment to creating a welcoming, customer-focused environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours).
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Bend, reach, crouch, and stoop frequently.
• Use hands for scanning, typing, and operating POS systems.
• Read screens and small print; hear and respond in a busy environment.
• Push and pull carts and supply bins.
• Communicate clearly with staff, customers, and vendors.
• Work in varying temperatures, including coolers and freezers.

Benefits at the Co-op

• Up to 25% staff discount & access to wholesale orders
• Great medical/dental/vision and supplemental insurance options
• 401(k) with match
• Paid time off
• Pay on Demand
• Potential year-end bonus
• Access to employee assistance program

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: The Community Food Co-op is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a The Community Food Co-op is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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.