Front End Assistant Department Manager

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.