Associate Retail Manager - R&D Store

MASS MoCA is seeking a full-time Associate Retail Manager to launch our newest retail endeavor, The Research & Development Store which is set to open this summer. The R&D Store combines gallery and retail space focused on selling contemporary artist editions and books of the highest quality. The store will host book events, record launches, signings, intimate performances and product-related public programming.

The Associate Retail Manager works to achieve the success of retail operations and enhances the visitor experience by connecting shoppers to the materials (books, prints, and ephemera) related to our programming. The ideal candidate will have an interest in contemporary culture and a love of printed matter and art objects—product knowledge can be learned on the job. Basic math and Point of Sale skills, careful organization and attention to detail are crucial. We're looking for a dependable multi-tasker who is curious, self-motivated, prompt and able to work independently.

This position works closely with and reports to the Manager & Creative Producer of Research & Development and once on board, this person will help train, retain, and educate a productive team of part-time associates. This public facing role is vital to the larger team of other front facing departments at MASS MoCA (Public Programs, Membership, Visitor Services and Security) and we think a strong sense of fun & camaraderie are the best way to help “own” the customer experience in this fast-paced, high traffic Museum Shop environment.

The MASS MoCA retail store is a key part of the visitor experience and the museum’s earned revenue operation, and operates as a source of information about the museum and surrounding region to visitors beyond the range of products offered.

As defined by the National Labor Relations Act, this position is part of the bargaining unit for UAW Local 2110.

Duties and Responsibilities of the Associate Retail Manager include but are not limited to:

• Minimum high school diploma or equivalent required.
• Cheerfully greeting customers and providing suggestions and product information.
• Handling/counting cash, making regular bank deposits, and running reports for accounting.
• Monitoring and maintaining an accurate inventory, including receiving new shipments into the POS system and assisting with the organization of semiannual physical inventory counts.
• Monitoring the online store inventory, publishing and deactivating products as needed, and assisting with building new content.
• Receiving, packing and shipping online store and phone orders.
• Monitoring and responding to store voicemail.
• Creating monthly schedules for the retail store.
• Training all new Retail Sales Associates; coaching, supporting, and working closely with them. Leading by example.
• Cleaning store fixtures and maintaining attractive merchandise displays.
• Ensuring all pricing, signage and displays are correct at all times.
• Opening and closing the store and operating the POS system and cash drawer.
• Organizing overstock and replenishing store displays as needed.
• Taking initiative to learn about the history of MASS MoCA and the current and past exhibitions and performances in order to answer customer questions.
• Organizing and affixing price tags to new incoming shipments of products.
• Candidates must be friendly, patient, computer-savvy, a self-starter and confident to work independently.
• Customer service experience is a must.
• Knowledge of the North Adams area is preferred.

Work Conditions

• This position requires ability to work a flexible schedule, with availability on weekends and holidays, and for events, programs, and festivals, including those after museum hours.
• The majority of the workday is spent indoors, but occasional special events, exhibitions, and/or festivals may require working outdoors and in inclement weather.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand and walk for long periods of time, on and across various floor types with limited breaks.
• Must be able to confidently communicate with guests.
• The employee may be required to climb or balance, squat, kneel, and crouch.
• The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 40+ pounds.
• Must be able to wear PPE when necessary.
• For employment at MASS MoCA, candidates must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination will be required for employment.

Non-exempt.

Minimum starting wage: $18.00/per hour.