Retail Associate

About Us:

Pop-Local is a retail home for products created by local makers: a one-stop shop dedicated to supporting and sharing the stories of independent businesses, artists, and artisans across the Pacific Northwest, with a strong focus on the Portland/Vancouver metro area.

What began in August 2020 as a small pop-up during the COVID-19 pandemic has grown into a thriving storefront on the Vancouver waterfront. Built in response to the challenges local businesses were facing, Pop-Local was founded with a mission to fuel independent businesses, connect the community, and inspire a stronger local economy.

Today, we’re proud to showcase products from over 300 PNW local brands—and to serve as a space where community, creativity, and entrepreneurship come together.

We are deeply committed to supporting our local community and empowering small businesses. As a team, we value connection, collaboration, and creating a welcoming environment for both our customers and our vendors.

Position Overview:

We’re looking for someone who genuinely loves connecting with people and supporting local businesses to join our team as a Part-Time Retail Associate.

This is a seasonal, entry-level position with the potential to transition into a longer-term role based on performance and team needs. Training will begin at the end of May, followed by a three-month evaluation period for continued placement.

This role is very part-time, primarily focused on weekend coverage, so consistent weekend availability is required.

Job Description:

As a Retail Associate at Pop-Local, you are a key part of creating the experience that makes our store feel special. From supporting local makers to building genuine connections with customers, your role helps bring our mission to life each day—fostering community and creating a welcoming, engaging in-store experience.

You’ll assist customers in discovering products from our local makers, provide thoughtful and engaging service, and help maintain a well-organized, inviting space. This role offers the opportunity to be part of a community-driven environment while developing valuable retail and customer experience skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create a warm, welcoming, and engaging experience for every customer
• Assist customers in discovering products and share the stories behind our local makers
• Stay knowledgeable about vendors, products, and in-store events
• Maintain store organization, cleanliness, and restock inventory as needed
• Accurately process transactions, returns/ exchanges, and customer inquiries
• Collaborate with the team and management to support daily operations and sales goals.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate restock needs to the team
• Follow store procedures, including opening/closing tasks and loss prevention protocols
• Support visual merchandising standards and uphold an inviting, well-presented sales floor
• Represent the Pop-Local brand with professionalism, enthusiasm, and care

Qualifications:

We’re looking for someone who is reliable, detail-oriented, and genuinely enjoys connecting with people. The ideal candidate is proactive, takes initiative, and thrives in a team-oriented environment while also being comfortable working independently. Strong communication skills and a positive, engaging presence are key to creating the kind of experience we value in-store.

• Previous retail or customer service experience is preferred, with at least 1–2 years in a customer-facing role being ideal.
• Candidates must be 21 or older in order to sell alcohol independently.
• A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with additional education considered a plus.

Most importantly, we’re looking for someone who is enthusiastic about supporting local businesses and excited to be part of a community-driven retail environment.

Reliability and Scheduling Commitments:

• As a small, team-driven business, reliability is essential to our day-to-day operations and overall team success. Consistent attendance and punctuality are key to ensuring a smooth and supportive work environment for both your teammates and our customers.
• This role is primarily focused on weekend coverage, and dependable weekend availability is required.
• Job Requirements & Certifications : WA MAST Certification & Food Worker Card
• Washington MAST Certification (required to sell alcohol) : https://www.aplusservereducation.com/
• Washington State Food Worker Card : https://www.foodworkercard.wa.gov/

**Both certifications can be completed online and must be obtained prior to the end of training.

Why Pop-Local

At Pop-Local, we believe in the power of community and the impact of supporting small businesses. Joining our team means being part of something bigger than a traditional retail role; helping uplift local makers, share their stories, and create a space where people feel connected and inspired.

As part of our team, you’ll contribute to a collaborative, creative, and purpose-driven environment that values growth—both personally and professionally. If you’re passionate about supporting local and want to make a meaningful impact within your community, we’d love to have you join us.

Drop off your resume today in store, or submit your resume to the below email.

*Be sure to include a bit about yourself and explain why you are enthusiastic about joining the Pop-Local team!

team@poplocalvancouver.com

Please be sure to note in the subject line : resume / followed by your name

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $17.13 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Work Location: In person