Assistant Manager, Fair Tide Thrift Store

Island Institute
Island Institute

Kittery, ME, USA

Posted on Aug 8, 2026

Assistant Manager, Fair Tide Thrift Store

Reports To: Fair Tide Thrift Store Manager
Status: Part-Time (25 hours/week)

About Mainspring

Mainspring is building a stronger community by providing individuals and families with the resources they need to thrive. Through collaborative partnerships, coordinated services, affordable housing, food assistance, and community-based support, Mainspring works to ensure that every person has access to the opportunities and resources they need to achieve stability and well-being.

The Fair Tide Thrift Store is an important part of this mission. Revenue generated through the store directly supports Mainspring's programs and services while providing affordable, quality goods to the community.

Position Summary

The Fair Tide Thrift Store Assistant Manager supports the Thrift Store Manager in the daily operations of the Fair Tide Thrift Store at Mainspring. Working alongside staff and volunteers, the Assistant Manager helps create an organized, welcoming, and mission-driven shopping experience while maximizing sales that directly support Mainspring's work in the community.

This position provides day-to-day operational leadership, oversees merchandise production and sales floor operations, supports staff and volunteers, and helps ensure efficient, customer-focused store operations. The Assistant Manager serves as Manager in Charge in the absence of the Thrift Store Manager.

Essential Responsibilities Store Operations

Assist with the daily operation of the thrift store to ensure a clean, organized, safe, and welcoming environment for customers, donors, volunteers, and staff.

Serve as Manager in Charge during the Thrift Store Manager's absence.

Support opening and closing procedures, cash handling, security, and operational policies.

Oversee the flow of donated merchandise, including sorting, pricing, merchandising, display, rotation, and inventory management.

Ensure merchandise is attractively presented and the sales floor remains fully stocked, clean, and organized.

Assist with sales reporting, petty cash management, and achieving store revenue goals.

Address customer concerns and resolve operational issues in a professional and positive manner.

Maintain knowledge of resale trends and best practices to maximize the value of donated goods.

Staff & Volunteer Leadership

Foster a positive, collaborative, and inclusive team environment.

Provide day-to-day leadership, coaching, and support to staff and volunteers.

Assist with scheduling, performance evaluations, and disciplinary processes as appropriate.

Collaborate with Mainspring's Volunteer Coordinator to maximize volunteer engagement and ensure adequate volunteer coverage.

Merchandising & Sales

Research specialty or high-value items to ensure appropriate pricing and identify opportunities for online or specialty sales.

Assist with planning and implementing sales promotions, merchandising strategies, and seasonal displays.

Collaborate with the Development team to highlight unique merchandise, promote store events, and increase community engagement through marketing and communications efforts.

Safety & Compliance

Maintain a safe working environment for staff, volunteers, customers, and donors.

Follow organizational policies and procedures, including confidentiality, workplace safety, and cash handling practices.

Promptly report incidents, concerns, or policy violations to appropriate leadership.

Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and operations of Mainspring.

Qualifications Education & Experience

Associate degree or equivalent experience preferred.

Two to three years of retail, resale, customer service, or related management experience preferred.

Previous supervisory or leadership experience strongly preferred.

Experience working with volunteers is a plus.

Knowledge & Skills

Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.

Excellent organizational, communication, and time management abilities.

Ability to lead, motivate, and support staff and volunteers in a fast-paced environment.

Sound judgment, initiative, and problem-solving skills.

Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion.

Knowledge of resale merchandising, pricing, and retail operations is preferred.

Licenses & Certifications

Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Physical Requirements

Frequently stand, walk, bend, reach, and use hands throughout the workday.

Frequently lift and carry up to 25 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds.

Ability to safely move donated merchandise throughout the store and storage areas.

Work in a fast-paced retail environment with moderate to high noise levels and frequent interruptions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Mainspring is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with dignity and respect. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the communities we serve.

TO APPLY: Send Resume and Cover Letter to Meaghan Salito at hiring@mainspringcollective.org
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