Museum Store Associate

CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM

JOB DESCRIPTION

 

JOB TITLE: Retail Associate - Part time, Temporary

 

DEPARTMENT: President's Office

 

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

 

JOB SUMMARY:

 

The Chicago History Museum is seeking a customer-focused and reliable Retail Associate to support operations of the Chicago History Museum Store at 1601 N. Clark Street. Reporting to the Assistant Store Manager, this role provides support to the Museum store staff including customer service, managing customer purchases and payment processing, inventory and merchandising support that enhance the visitor experience.

This is a temporary, hourly, non-exempt position with the possibility of transitioning to permanent employment. Weekend and holiday availability are required.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Retail Operations & Customer Service

• Assist with day-to-day store operations and support opening/closing procedures as directed.
• Provide friendly, high-quality customer service and assist with sales, returns, and general inquiries.
• Ensure the store environment remains clean, organized, and welcoming to all visitors.

 

Inventory Support

• Receive, tag, replenish, and restock merchandise throughout the store.
• Assist with inventory tracking, stock counts, and periodic audits.
• Inform the Store personnel of inventory shortages or product concerns.

 

Sales & Register Duties

• Operate the point-of-sale (POS) system and process sales transactions accurately.
• Follow proper cash handling procedures and maintain accuracy in all transactions.

 

Visual Merchandising

• Support the setup and maintenance of merchandise displays aligned with museum exhibitions and seasonal themes.
• Rotate stock and signage to maintain visual appeal and support sales goals.

 

Collaboration & Communication

• Communicate customer feedback, product issues, or operational needs to the Assistant Store Manager.
• Assist with in-store promotions, special events, and museum collaborations as assigned.
• Foster positive interactions with all museum departments and staff.

 

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant retail/customer service experience preferred; museum or nonprofit retail experience a plus.

 

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Ability to use POS systems and process transactions with accuracy.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain organization in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Enthusiasm for history, culture, and the mission of the Chicago History Museum.

 

Working Conditions:

• Temporary, part-time, hourly position; part-time hours vary and may be up to 20 hours per week.
• Schedule will include weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings.
• Must be able to lift 30 pounds and stand for extended periods.

 

CHM MISSION

Serve as the primary destination for learning, inspiration, and civic engagement, connecting people to Chicago’s history and each other.

CHM CORE VALUE

Collaboration: We honor all lived experiences, skills, and goals, weaving them into our work to collectively share stories of history and culture.

Integrity: We conduct all business and build internal and external relationships on the foundation of honesty, camaraderie, and professional fellowship.

Respect: We listen to understand, and we affirm other people’s perspectives and contributions. We show up for others and treat them as they want to be treated.

 

Curiosity: We invite questions and celebrate investigation, encouraging meaningful connections with history and a sense of wonder about our complex city.

 

Innovation: We anticipate the need to adapt and evolve, embracing new ideas that will propel the Museum to increase success.

 

Service: We actively cultivate a responsive and supportive culture where all people are valued and respected.

 

This job description is not intended to be an express or implied contract between CHM and any employee. CHM employees are employees at will. CHM reserves the right to change or assign other duties to this position as necessary to meet changing business needs. CHM is an equal opportunity employer.