Retail Operations Specialist | Center Store

Retail Operations Specialist Center Store

This job was posted by Idaho Works. For more information, please see Idaho Works.

We are a long-standing organization dedicated to supporting grocery retailers across the Intermountain West for over 85 years. Our company prioritizes our team members, their families, and the communities we serve. We proudly partner with local organizations to fundraise, donate, and sponsor various charitable activities and events.

Why Join The Team?

Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), vacation, and sick leave for eligible team members. Some benefits have waiting periods (e.g., vacation accrual, 401(k), tuition reimbursement).

Perks & Discounts: Team member perks and 10% off groceries.

Flexible Work: Hybrid schedules available for select positions, combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.

Tuition Reimbursement: Support for continued education.

Career Growth: Opportunities for advancement within the company.

Daily Pay: Access earned wages more frequently.

Job Summary

The Retail Operations Specialist Center Store plays a pivotal leadership role in supporting store directors and managers across grocery and general merchandise departments, serving Eastern Idaho, including Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls, and Rigby. This position is deeply embedded in AFS’s culture of collaboration, hands-on merchandising, and relationship-building. The Specialist advises on programs, procedures, and division policy changes, while also auditing store-level execution and reporting outcomes to sales merchandise managers or the regional director. Success in this role requires a proactive approach to coaching, a keen eye for merchandising opportunities, and the ability to foster strong partnerships with store teams. Travel is required, including possible overnight stays, and the use of a personal vehicle is necessary.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary Center Store resource for member retailers in Eastern Idaho, ensuring consistent support and strategic guidance across Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls, and Rigby.

Advise member retailers on Center Store ordering and merchandising strategies to maximize sales and category performance.

Plan aggressive merchandising and promotional programs to drive sales growth, including display concepts and new product introductions, with a strong understanding of schematics and shelf utilization.

Assist stores in maintaining effective control of department labor and inventory in alignment with established budgets and guidelines.

Support and guide stores through the inventory process to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

Provide coaching, training, and development for Center Store personnel to elevate performance and operational excellence.

Required Skills, Education, and Experience

Retail experience required; Store Director or Assistant Store Director experience preferred. Extensive knowledge of specialty foods. Strong understanding of schematics, their purpose, and the ability to create them. Effective communication skills (written and verbal) to convey policies, procedures, and standards. Proven experience in profitable Center Store operations and merchandising. Strong problem-solving skills and self-motivation. Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with vendors and store personnel, including training and education. Creative and innovative mindset. Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Basic math skills required.

Associated Food Stores is an equal-opportunity employer. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.