2026 Fall Retail Management Internship- Mall in Columbia

Cagayan State University; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 23,000 - 29,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Merchandise discounts

Professional development

Community impact

Job summary

Cagayan State University is seeking an Acting Sales Lead in Columbia, SC to work alongside store leaders and motivate associates while focusing on client service. You will monitor sales metrics, identify trends, and support merchandising initiatives to align with brand priorities.

The role requires flexible availability, strong communication, and prior retail experience. This position offers hourly compensation and benefits within a retail environment.

Qualifications

• Client-first mentality with ability to balance customer service and store operations.
• Ability to organize, delegate, prioritize assignments, and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of visual merchandising standards and ability to implement guidelines.
• Accuracy in cash handling and transaction processing.
• Effective communication skills with clients, management, and associates.
• Flexible availability including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical ability to lift up to 20 pounds and maneuver around sales floor and stock room.
• Preferred: At least 6 months retail sales experience and management experience.
• Proficient with technology and point-of-sale systems.
• Enjoys coaching and communicating with team members.
• Initiative in decision-making and ability to prioritize tasks.

Responsibilities

• Work alongside top store leaders as an Acting Sales Lead (key holder) to develop leadership skills.
• Motivate associates to anticipate and exceed client expectations.
• Drive sales results by monitoring key metrics and identifying business trends and opportunities.
• Utilize tools and resources to maintain an efficient, client-focused environment, including problem solving and resolution.
• Gain merchandising experience by planning, executing, and adjusting visual directives to support business priorities.
• Partner with store leaders to create a positive workplace and shopping environment.
• Develop skills in recruiting, selecting, and training hourly associates.
• Support Store Manager and Assistant Store Manager in store operations, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and managing store keys.
• Coach associates on client interactions and performance to maximize productivity and capture client opportunities.
• Use reports to make merchandising decisions and maintain store standards.
• Complete daily tasks to ensure smooth store operation and adherence to standards.
• Embrace fashion trends and represent the brand by adhering to dress code guidelines.
• Foster an inclusive, diverse, and safe culture treating others fairly and with respect.

Skills

Client service

Leadership ability

Merchandising

Cash handling

Communication

Task prioritization

Flexibility

POS proficiency

Education

Currently enrolled student / recent graduate

Tools

POS systems

Job description

Your Role

Here’s what you will be doing:

• Work alongside top store leaders as an Acting Sales Lead (key holder) to develop leadership skills.
• Motivate associates to anticipate and exceed client expectations.
• Drive sales results by monitoring key metrics and identifying business trends and opportunities.
• Utilize tools and resources to maintain an efficient, client-focused environment, including problem solving and resolution.
• Gain merchandising experience by planning, executing, and adjusting visual directives to support business priorities.
• Partner with store leaders to create a positive workplace and shopping environment.
• Develop skills in recruiting, selecting, and training hourly associates.
• Support Store Manager and Assistant Store Manager in store operations, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and managing store keys.
• Coach associates on client interactions and performance to maximize productivity and capture client opportunities.
• Use reports to make merchandising decisions and maintain store standards.
• Complete daily tasks to ensure smooth store operation and adherence to standards.
• Embrace fashion trends and represent the brand by adhering to dress code guidelines.
• Foster an inclusive, diverse, and safe culture treating others fairly and with respect.

About You

The company is looking for:

• Current college junior, senior, or recent graduate.
• Client-first mentality with ability to balance customer service and store operations.
• Ability to organize, delegate, prioritize assignments, and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of visual merchandising standards and ability to implement guidelines.
• Accuracy in cash handling and transaction processing.
• Effective communication skills with clients, management, and associates.
• Flexible availability including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical ability to lift up to 20 pounds and maneuver around sales floor and stock room.
• Preferred: At least 6 months retail sales experience and management experience.
• Proficient with technology and point-of-sale systems.
• Enjoys coaching and communicating with team members.
• Initiative in decision-making and ability to prioritize tasks.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly pay range: $17.00 - $21.25 USD.
• 401(k) plan.
• Merchandise discounts and eligibility for discounts at sister brands.
• Professional development and advancement opportunities across brands.
• Community impact through philanthropic partnerships.

The company is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.