An outstanding opportunity presents itself to those applicants interested in the pet hobby aquarium sector, as we are creating a brand new store in Oakland, CA.
Specializing in saltwater and freshwater fish, corals, invertebrates, tanks, gadgets, and supplies, we seek to become the Bay Area's largest and most diverse aquatics store.
With an advanced and thorough use of new technology, we will be streamlined and efficient, and offer a unique experience to customers unlike any other LFS in the country, as well as to our valued employees.
The interested candidate must be passionate about the hobby, and enjoy working with live fish and their associated products and care.
Job Overview:
Under supervision, the Aquatic Sales Associate’s primary job function is to both sell store merchandise, which will consist of live fish, tanks, and pet products (dog or cat), and other aquarium related products; and the maintenance, cleaning, installation, support, and upkeep of live aquatic animals and their systems. Other related tasks include customer service, technical assistance, and support of other Sales Associates.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Ensure that all customers receive the highest and most outstanding service possible, creating a unique experience for customers atypical of regular retail stores;
Maintaining advanced product knowledge and continuing education on new product releases, technology, and advanced methods of aquatic care;
Meet performance expectations and sales goals for the store;
Ability to properly complete necessary forms and legal obligations using a web browser;
Ability to work in a modern, fast paced, rapidly changing environment;
Ability to lift 50 lbs. from ground level to store shelves;
Ability to bend, stoop, reach with arms and hands, and climb on ladders;
Ability to move and perform tasks at any location in the store without assistance;
Ability to perform various tasks for up to 8 hours;
Follow sales campaigns, promotions, and marketing the store has ongoing at any point;
Maintain fish tanks, coral tanks, and provide needed animal care and feedings;
Assist in moving aquariums, merchandise, and keeping the store clean and uncluttered;
Assist in processing inventory and shipments, and replenishing store shelves and tanks;
Assist in providing urgent care for incoming live fish shipments;
Assist in setting up tanks, new systems, devices, pumps and plumbing, and related tasks;
Assist with water filtration systems, and the regular creation and transport of saltwater;
Occasionally travel to trade shows or educational classroom sessions to learn new knowledge;
Follow and comply with all policy and procedures.
Competencies
Possess an outgoing and friendly personality with outstanding customer service skills;
Possess a very strong attention to detail and care;
Possess competent verbal communication and listening skills;
Possess competent writing skills for basic communication;
Possess strong electronic device skills and understanding, with frequent use of iPads, Android devices, and email;
Possess competent skills to communicate using mobile devices and software based channels;
Ability to interpret unexpected situations and make judgement decisions with care;
Possess mathematical skills sufficient for dosing and mixing products from solids to liquids using the metric system;
Enjoy working with fish and gaining new knowledge about marine biology and aquatic species;
Be assertive and confident;
Be able to work as scheduled, which may include weekends and evenings;
Be passionate about changing the current standard of service and developing new techniques to sell products, gain customers, and loyalty.
Education and/or Experience
1-3 years of retail or customer service experience is preferred;
3 years of experience in the reef and fish husbandry, or a related field is highly preferred;
BS or ongoing study in biological sciences or ichthyology is optional, but desired.
Environmental Factors/Physical Demands
During employment you will have access to customer and/or personnel information, and other company information, which are considered confidential and you must maintain them as such;
The employee is aware that dogs and/or cats may be present at any given time, in a pet store;
The employee must have a smartphone to use company apps and phone; Wi-Fi will be onsite;
The employee is required to maintain open communication with customers, and fellow employees via electronic apps;
An electronic internet based POS system will be used for access and input and customer interactions;
Physical demands as described represent those that must be met by an employee, in order to perform the essential functions of his/her job such as: lifting up to 50lbs, standing for extended periods of time, climbing ladders, moving heavy equipment, bending, reaching, kneeling, stooping, squatting, crouching below aquariums, and reaching above your head;
Opportunity for advancement within the company and employee development is highly encouraged.
Compensation and Benefits:
We are seeking the best employees, and will treat and reward them as such. We are offering very generous benefits such as:
Paid holidays;
Vacation time;
Sick time;
Commissions on most product sales;
Bonuses;
99% company paid contribution for medical coverage on our base plan, with an HSA (Health Savings Account);
Other company contributed optional health plans;
Life and disability insurance (Starting August 2017);
401k (Coming soon);
Web based HR and online employee portal.
