Store Operations Specialist – Junior

Store Operations Specialist - Junior
Contract length: 8 months
Schedule: Farmington, MA Pay: $19-24/hr (DOE) Store Operations Specialist (Contractor)

The Store Operations Specialist represents Merchandise Presentation and Store Operations in projects and initiatives that impact merchandise standards and store execution across multiple retail locations. This role supports seasonal floor sets, feature and flow planning, remodels/relocations, new store openings, fixture rollouts, and other sales-driving initiatives. Serving as a key liaison between Stores and cross-functional partners like Marketing, Buying/Planning, and Store Design, the specialist evaluates store presentation opportunities, resolves merchandising challenges, and helps ensure presentation standards align with business objectives.

• Drive consistent presentation standards across all stores
• Coordinate and communicate to stores monthly on seasonal feature and flow direction, merchandising updates, markdown calendar, etc.
• Support special projects for sales-driving initiatives, including floor plan development, fixture rollouts, and budgets
• Assist with new stores, remodels, and relocations
• Partner with Marketing, Buying/Planning, Loss Prevention, and Fixtures/Design teams to execute merchandise presentation initiatives
• Liaise with Stores and Regional Merchandise Presentation Managers
• Provide problem-solving support for store merchandising-related escalations
• Support signage library's Print on Demand Program
• Prepare and present project updates, budgets, reporting, and operational recommendations to leadership
• Evaluate presentation strategies and store feedback to identify opportunities for improved execution and business performance
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure timely implementation of merchandising initiatives and presentation standards

Requirements:

• 2-5 years of experience in retail (store operations, store employee, etc.), administrative (administrative assistant, etc.), or similar experience
• Bachelor's degree OR equivalent work experience
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities
• Detail-oriented with a proactive, problem-solving mindset
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Good communication skills (written and verbal) with stakeholders and business partner groups
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally and follow through on tasks
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams)

Preferences:

• Retail store management, visual merchandising, or merchandise presentation experience
• Project management experience in a multi-store retail environment

Backgrounds That Fit This Role:

• Retail Manager
• Retail Coordinator
• Store Operations Specialist

• Transmits payroll in conjunction with Home Office.
• Audits timekeeping and timecard accuracy.
• Audits payroll reports and makes corrections as necessary.
• Stops payment of voided checks.
• Prepares checks for distribution.
• Updates and maintains the HRIS to include personnel files, profiles, new hire paperwork, bid acceptances and personnel change status.
• Tracks, maintains and prepares various lists and reports to include new hire evaluations, attendance (sick, vacation and holiday time), seniority and shift information, etc.
• Coordinates the benefits program to include insurance, 401(k), leaves of absence, appointment tracking and follow-up.
• Counsels associates on benefit plans and provisions, and assists in completing claims and open enrollment forms.
• Assists in new hire and benefit orientations for bilingual associates and assists with translations for associate relations, benefits and medical services matters. Assists training department and other classes as necessary.
• Responds to associate inquiries regarding HR-related issues including employment verifications, clarification of information and follow-up on requested documentation.
• Responds to external inquiries regarding a variety of Human Resources issues.
• Completes employment verifications, processes unemployment information and responds to wage verifications.
• Interacts with Home Office on HR administrative issues and keeps the Human Resources Supervisor informed, as needed.
• Participates in special projects as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

• 1-5 years related experience
• High School Diploma OR equivalent work experience
• Good organizational, communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of basic HR functions (payroll, files and benefits)
• Knowledge of MS Excel and MS Word
• Knowledge of payroll systems (Kronos AND Workday preferred)

PREFERRED

• Experience working within a unionized environment