Job Summary

Join the Howl To The Chief Team – Coming to Union Market This Summer!

For the past 17 years, Howl To The Chief has been proudly serving the Washington, DC community as an independent dog and cat supply boutique. We're excited to open our second location at Union Market next month and are looking for an enthusiastic Assistant Manager to join our growing team.

At Howl To The Chief, we specialize in carrying products from independent brands, small businesses, and innovative startup companies. We offer a carefully curated selection of highly rated pet foods for a variety of dietary needs, along with healthy treats, fresh bakery items, fun toys, and other quality pet supplies. We also enjoy giving back to the community by hosting pet adoption events on weekends.

We're looking for an Assistant Manager who is passionate about pets and eager to grow their career in retail management. Previous retail experience, along with strong knowledge of pet care and pet nutrition, is required. If you're a motivated leader who enjoys helping customers, supporting a team, and creating an exceptional shopping experience, we'd love to hear from you!

Responsibilities

Assistant Store Manager (Full-Time – 35 Hours/Week)

As our Assistant Store Manager, you'll play a key role in the daily operations of our Union Market location. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced retail environment, has a passion for pets, and is looking to grow into a leadership role within a locally owned small business.

Responsibilities

Assist the Store Manager with overseeing the day-to-day operations of the store.
Open and close the store, ensuring smooth operations throughout the day.
Deliver exceptional customer service and confidently assist customers during busy periods and high-volume sales.
Operate and troubleshoot our point-of-sale (POS) system with accuracy.
Handle incoming phone calls, customer inquiries, and email communications in a professional and friendly manner.
Place and manage large inventory orders while maintaining appropriate stock levels.
Receive, process, and organize multiple shipments each week.
Stock shelves, rotate inventory, and maintain an organized and well-merchandised sales floor.
Monitor inventory levels and assist with inventory counts and product management.
Build and maintain positive relationships with sales representatives and vendors.
Assist with planning and hosting weekend pet adoption events and other in-store community events.
Help train and support team members while maintaining a positive and collaborative work environment.
Ensure the store remains clean, organized, and welcoming for customers and their pets.

Qualifications

Previous retail management, key holder, or supervisory experience required.
Strong knowledge of pet nutrition, pet care, and pet products is required.
Experience operating a POS system and confidence using computers and retail software.
Experience placing business inventory orders and managing stock.
Experience receiving and processing freight shipments.
Excellent organizational, communication, and multitasking skills.
Comfortable working independently and making decisions in the Store Manager's absence.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and remain calm during busy rushes.
Professional communication skills when working with customers, vendors, and sales representatives.
Experience managing business operations is strongly preferred.
Ability to stand for extended periods and regularly lift and carry 40+ pounds.
Must be dependable, detail-oriented, and passionate about providing outstanding customer service.

Schedule

Approximately 35 hours a week
Must be available to work weekdays, weekends, holidays, and opening or closing shifts as needed.

Why Join Howl To The Chief?

Be part of a locally owned small business that has proudly served Washington, DC for over 17 years.
Help launch and grow our exciting new Union Market location.
Work alongside a team passionate about pet health, nutrition, and customer service.
Build lasting relationships with customers, local rescues, vendors, and the pet community.
Opportunity for continued growth and increased leadership responsibilities as our company expands.

If you're passionate about pets, enjoy leading a team, and are looking for a career—not just a job—we'd love to meet you!

Please do not contact this location directly. We will reach out if you are selected for an interview.

Pay: $50,316.82 - $60,596.60 per year

Work Location: In person

Howl To The Chief (Pet Store)

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