The Bookseller at A Seat at the Table Books is responsible for creating a “third space” environment by engaging all customers, regardless of identity, in a safe and inclusive way, recommending and ordering books, and serving cafe drinks and food. This role requires exceptional customer service, including direct communication with all coworkers and vendors; the ability to learn quickly; the ability to take proactive action based on educated decisions when management is unavailable; and the ability to support the diverse needs of our bookstore, cafe, and event venue. Each Bookseller role will include one or more specializations, such as Assistant Buyer (e.g., Receiving, Shipping), Ordering (e.g., Cafe and Bookstore Inventory), Reservation and Event Coordination, Partner Coordination (e.g., Author and Intern Programs), and Marketing.
This position is 15-25 hours per week and interviews are June 2 and 3.
Staff receive:
● 30% discount on food, beverages, books, and merchandise
● Tips upon training completion
● Access to free Advance Review and Advance Listening Copies of forthcoming titles
● Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day off due to store closure
● Sick leave and PTO
● Inclusive work environment and company culture
Job Requirements
● Passion for social justice, equity, coffee, and books
● High school diploma or equivalent
● Food retail experience
● Six or more months of customer-service focused retail experience
● Dependability, reliability, and ability to receive feedback
● Ability to enthusiastically recommend books in favorite genres and grow knowledge of other genres
● Compassion for customers of all ages, abilities, and identities
● Confidence to sort, organize, and alphabetize books
● Active ServSafe food handler and alcohol handler cards (or must obtain within 2 weeks of hire) Physical Requirements
● Ability to lift up to 30 pounds (e.g., book boxes, cafe supplies, furniture for events and at opening and closing)
● Standing for extended periods during shifts
● Reaching and bending to restock shelves and cafe inventory, and climbing ladder
● Ability to move quickly between different areas of the store
Job Duties
● Assist customers by taking their food and beverage orders and ringing up books and merchandise on the store point of sale system
● Create hot and iced beverages, pour beer and wine according to legal and business standards, and prep food items in the kitchen to be ready to serve
● Be responsible for the full store while working alone for opening, closing, lunch, and private reservation coverage
● Open and close the store with attention to detail on checklists
● Follow daily task lists to ensure the store operates smoothly
● Proactively communicate needs and ideas with the management team
● Accurately count the till
● Organize and alphabetize books
● Create and maintain book displays
● Receive and organize food and beverage deliveries
● Follow all state, local, and company protocols in regards to food safety and general health
● Keep store clean and during hours and after closing
● You may be required to maintain a good driving record and reliable transportation. If you’re driving in the course of your duties with the company you’ll be expected to comply with all traffic rules and applicable laws.
● Assist with other duties as needed
$18 - $18.5 per hour