Lawn and Garden Manager

Ace-Hardware; New Brighton (MN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Ace-Hardware in Minnesota seeks a Lawn and Garden Department Manager to lead daily operations, drive sales, merchandising, and exceptional customer service. You will collaborate with the inventory coordinator, manage season transitions, pricing accuracy, and keep the department organized and visually appealing.

You will coach associates, supervise staffing, and uphold safety and quality while delivering a positive shopping experience for customers across the lawn and garden area.

Qualifications

• Seasoned retail manager with hardware or garden department experience.
• Proven ability to lead teams, train staff, and manage budgets.
• Strong customer service and product knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily lawn and garden department operations.
• Oversee inventory processes and pricing accuracy.
• Lead staff training and shift scheduling.
• Interview and hire team members with store manager involvement.
• Develop budgets and implement efficiency strategies.
• Foster a positive, team‑oriented environment.

Skills

Retail management

Staff supervision

Customer service

Inventory control

Budgeting

Training & coaching

Leadership

Communication

Job description

Position Summary

The lawn and garden department manager is responsible for leading the daily operations, sales performance, merchandising standards, and overall success of the lawn and garden department. This position provides exceptional customer service by assisting customers with product recommendations, project solutions, and knowledge advice while ensuring the department remains organized, stocked, and visually appealing. The lawn and garden department manager will work closely with the inventory coordinator and manage season transitions, product presentation, pricing accuracy, and department cleanliness. This role requires strong leadership skills to train, coach, and support associates while creating a positive, team-oriented environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Supervise daily operations, ensuring smooth workflow and adherence to company standards
• Oversee inventory processes, maintaining high quality and safety standards Lead staff training sessions on customer service, and operational procedures
• Monitor inventory control to ensure proper stock levels and minimize waste Handle shift management by coordinating schedules and ensuring adequate staffing levels
• Conduct interviewing and hiring of new team members to build a competent workforce with the store manager
• Develop budgets, manage costs, and implement strategies for operational efficiency
• Provide leadership in operations management, fostering a positive work environment and team development

Customer Support

• Provide friendly, knowledgeable, and timely assistance to customers
• Help customers select products based on their lawn, garden, and outdoor living needs
• Answer questions regarding product features, uses, and maintenance
• Resolve customer concerns professionally and elevate issues when necessary Build positive customer relationships by delivering exceptional service and ensuring a positive shopping experience

Team Support & Store Standards

• Lead, coach, and support Lawn and Garden team members to promote a positive and productive work environment
• Delegate daily tasks and ensure responsibilities are completed efficiently
• Communicate effectively with store leadership and other departments Maintain company standards for cleanliness, organization, safety, and merchandising throughout the department
• Ensure department associates follow company policies and safety procedures Promote teamwork by assisting other departments as needed to support overall store operations
• Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to excellent customer service

Qualifications and Skills

• Proven experience in hardware, services or retail management roles with supervising responsibilities
• Strong background in hardware management
• Excellent customer service skills with the ability to handle guest concerns professionally
• Experience in managing staff training and development programs; leadership capabilities essential
• Ability to manage shift operations efficiently within a high volume environment Strong organizational skills with experience in inventory control and budgeting processes
• Effective communication skills with the ability to interview candidates and lead teams confidently

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and lift throughout shifts
• Comfortable working indoors and outdoors in varying conditions
• Ability to safely handle inventory and equipment
• Operate equipment such as pallet jacks, carts, forklifts, and other store equipment

Core Values

• Helpful expertise- know the product, solve the problem
• Ownership mentality- act like its your store
• Community first- service the neighborhood, not just the transaction
• Continuous improvement- always a better way
• Accountability without excuses

Schedule Expectations

• Flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends as needed
• Full-time and part-time opportunities may be available
• Seasonal overtime may be required during peak business periods

Why Join Hometown Ace Hardware?

• Be part of a growing, locally owned company
• Work closely with leadership and make a real impact
• Help build structure and consistency across multiple locations Opportunity to grow as the company expands

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the essential duties, responsibilities, and qualifications for this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all tasks or responsibilities and may be modified at any time to meet the changing needs of the business. Employment in this position is subject to all applicable company policies, procedures, and terms and conditions of employment. The Company reserves the right to assign, modify, add, or remove job duties and responsibilities as business needs require. Work schedules, hours, and assigned work locations are subject to change based on operational needs. Employees may be required to work evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, or at alternate company locations as necessary. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment or guarantee of continued employment. Employment is at-will unless otherwise provided by applicable law or a written employment agreement. Either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and with or without cause, subject to applicable law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position in accordance with applicable laws.