Lead Retail Associate

Columbia Care; Lowell (MA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Job summary

The Cannabist Lowell is seeking a dependable Lead Retail Associate to join our leadership team. You will guide daily store operations, support the sales team, ensure compliance, and deliver an exceptional experience for patients and adult-use customers.

You will balance customer service, operational duties, and team coaching in a fast-paced environment, reporting to the Store Manager while maintaining a welcoming, professional atmosphere.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Retail or customer service experience required.
• Leadership or keyholder experience preferred.
• Cannabis industry experience preferred but not required.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Comfort with POS systems and inventory software.
• Ability to balance priorities and work independently.

Responsibilities

• Lead store team, provide direction and support.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and maintain a welcoming environment.
• Resolve customer concerns and returns professionally.
• Coach employees and reinforce company standards.
• Manage opening/closing and shift operations.
• Ensure inventory accuracy and secure stock.
• Maintain compliance with CCC regulations and security procedures.
• Identify issues and implement effective solutions.

Skills

Retail experience

Customer service

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Independent work

Tools

POS systems

Inventory management software

Job description

Lead Retail Associate

Location: Cannabist Lowell, MA
Reports to: Store Manager / Assistant Store Manager
Schedule: Full-Time | Open Availability Required, Including Weekends
Pay: $18.50 per hour
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Overview

The Cannabist Company is seeking a dependable, motivated Lead Retail Associate to join our leadership team at Cannabist Lowell.

As a Lead Retail Associate, you'll play a key role in daily store operations, supporting the sales team, maintaining compliance, and ensuring an exceptional experience for medical patients and adult-use customers. You'll work closely with store management to keep operations running smoothly, resolve challenges, and foster a positive, collaborative work environment.

We're looking for someone who leads by example, takes initiative, and can confidently balance customer service, operational responsibilities, and team support in a fast-paced retail environment.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Customer Experience

• Serve as a member of the store leadership team, providing direction, guidance, and support to Retail Associates.

• Lead by example in delivering exceptional customer service and maintaining a welcoming, professional environment.

• Address customer concerns, complaints, and returns with professionalism and sound judgment.

• Support employee development through coaching, feedback, and reinforcement of company standards.

• Communicate daily priorities, promotions, and operational updates to the team.

• Assist management in maintaining efficient workflows, accountability, and a positive team culture.

Store Operations & Compliance

• Support daily opening, closing, and shift operations in accordance with company procedures.

• Perform authorized inventory transfers between secure storage areas and the sales floor, restock merchandise, and maintain inventory accuracy.

• Assist with cash management, including obtaining change, processing returns, and resolving register discrepancies.

• Oversee accurate transaction processing, order fulfillment, and point-of-sale procedures.

• Ensure compliance with Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) regulations, including identification verification, purchase limits, inventory controls, and security procedures.

• Maintain an organized, well-stocked, and compliant sales floor.

• Identify operational issues and work with management to implement effective solutions.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age.

• Previous retail or customer service experience required.

• Prior experience in a leadership, supervisory, or keyholder role strongly preferred.

• Cannabis industry experience preferred but not required.

• Strong communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.

• Ability to lead by example, exercise sound judgment, and manage competing priorities.

• Comfortable using point-of-sale systems, inventory management software, and basic computer applications.

• Strong attention to detail, accountability, and commitment to regulatory compliance.

• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and adapt to changing business needs.

Scheduling Requirements

Full-time position with open availability, including weekends, required.

Cannabist Lowell operates seven days a week, with shifts scheduled between 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Candidates must be available to work a flexible schedule, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on business needs.

Weekend availability is required.

Physical Requirements

This position requires standing and walking for extended periods, performing repetitive tasks, and occasionally lifting or moving merchandise weighing up to 10 pounds or more with assistance.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals to perform the essential functions of the position.

About The Cannabist Company

The Cannabist Company is a multi-state cannabis operator serving medical patients and adult-use consumers. Through our Cannabist dispensaries, we're committed to providing quality products, knowledgeable service, and a welcoming retail experience.

We believe great customer experiences start with great teams. We value collaboration, professional growth, and creating an inclusive workplace where employees feel supported and empowered to succeed.

Learn more at www.cannabistcompany.com.

Benefits

Eligible employees may have access to a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, and additional company-sponsored benefits, subject to plan terms and eligibility.

The Cannabist Company is an equal opportunity employer committed to maintaining an inclusive workplace. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities. Duties may evolve based on business needs.