Pet Shop Customer Service & Sales Assistant - WPEP Scheme - Pet-Bliss

Pet-Bliss; Newtown Mount Kennedy; On-site; EUR 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A pet retail provider in Newtown Mount Kennedy is offering a work placement training program designed for jobseekers gaining experience in customer service, inventory management, and sales promotions. This opportunity requires no prior experience, provides comprehensive training, and aims to enhance skills in a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• No prior experience in this role is necessary.
• Participants are eligible to participate in the WPEP QQI Work Experience Module.

Responsibilities

• Deliver outstanding customer service by greeting and assisting customers.
• Build sales skills through product recommendation and upselling.
• Assist with inventory management and learn effective practices.
• Expand pet care knowledge to offer informed advice.
• Master point-of-sale operations for transactions.
• Maintain store standards for cleanliness and safety.
• Develop teamwork and communication skills.

Job description

Pet-Bliss

Ref: #WPEP-2413956

PET BLISS, BLOCK 2, Newtown Bus and Ent , Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, A63 XV26

This Work Placement Experience Programme provides participants with an opportunity to gain meaningful work experience, learning and training while on the programme. It is intended for jobseekers who are recipients of qualifying social welfare payments, or are transferring from a social welfare scheme or an ETB Training Allowance. Eligibility will be verified by the Department as part of the application process.

Job Responsibilities

• Deliver outstanding customer service by greeting and assisting a diverse range of customers, tailoring advice and support to their unique pet needs.
• Build sales skills through product recommendation, upselling, and achieving sales targets while using ethical, customer-focused techniques.
• Assist with inventory management, from receiving deliveries to organising displays, and learn how effective inventory practices keep the shop running smoothly.
• Expand pet care knowledge to deepen understanding of pet products and care trends, enhancing ability to offer informed advice.
• Master point-of-sale operations, including cash handling, processing transactions, and managing refunds to ensure accuracy and professionalism at the checkout.
• Maintain store standards by keeping the shop clean, safe, and inviting, including basic health and safety procedures.
• Develop teamwork and communication skills by working collaboratively with experienced team members and contributing to a supportive workplace culture.

Role Description

This is a training and work experience opportunity; no prior experience in this role is necessary. Accredited and/or sector-recognised training will be provided to support your placement. Participants are eligible to participate in the WPEP QQI Work Experience Module, developed by the Education & Training Boards in collaboration with the Department of Social Protection. This optional module will fulfil your accredited training requirements for the WPEP.

Training Provided (Hours)

• Informal Training (40 hrs):
• Customer service best practices, including greeting and assisting customers
• Product knowledge: learning about food, toys, accessories, and care items for a range of pets
• Sales techniques: upselling, cross-selling, and building customer loyalty
• Inventory management: stock control, receiving deliveries, and visual merchandising
• Point-of-sale (POS) system operation, including cash and card handling, processing refunds, and daily reconciliation
• Store maintenance: cleaning, tidying, and ensuring a safe, welcoming environment
• Health and safety procedures relevant to a pet retail setting
• Handling customer queries and complaints with professionalism
• Teamwork and communication skills development
• Supporting in-store promotions and community initiatives
• Accredited or Sector-Recognised Training (20 hrs):
• Animal welfare and care basics
• Pet nutrition fundamentals (sector-recognised training or supplier-led modules)
• Health and safety certification (manual handling, fire safety, or first aid relevant to retail)
• Data protection and GDPR awareness for retail
• Any other relevant training provided by industry bodies or local training authorities

Career Level

Not Required

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum Experience Required (Years): 0

Application Method

Please apply to this vacancy by the following means:

• An online identity service used by JobsIreland that enables clients to access State-provided online services in a safe and secure manner. By clicking 'Continue' you will be redirected to the MyGovID login page to login or create a basic account to register.
• This programme is for jobseekers that are in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment and those transferring from a social welfare scheme. Full eligibility details are available here.

How to Register Your Interest

To register your interest, take note of the scheme reference number and contact an Employment Personal Advisor in your local Intreo Office.