Lead Sales Associate

Osni-Ponca-LLC; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Ponca Smoke Signals/Osni in Lincoln, NE seeks a Lead Sales Associate to oversee day-to-day shop operations, coach sales staff, and drive customer satisfaction. You will manage opening/closing, cash handling, and inventory while upholding brand guidelines and community values.

Responsibilities include coaching, sales strategy, and ensuring compliance with safety and policy standards. Flexible hours including weekends may be required.

Qualifications

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or equivalent (college degree preferred).
• 2+ years of experience in a retail or sales role preferred, with at least 1 year in a supervisory or leadership position.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate a team of Sales Associates to achieve store sales goals and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Ensure the store’s visual presentation, inventory, and merchandising standards align with company and brand guidelines.
• Provide coaching and feedback to team members to improve performance and customer service.
• Oversee daily store operations, including opening/closing procedures, change orders, daily deposits, access to safe, cash handling, and ensuring the store is adequately stocked.
• Assist customers by answering questions, offering recommendations, and completing purchases.
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with restocking and reordering items.
• Handle customer concerns or complaints with professionalism and resolve issues efficiently.
• Ensure the store adheres to operational policies, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance.
• Assist the Retail Manager in maintaining accurate sales records, reporting, and tracking of store performance.
• Communicate with Retail Manager regarding the need for staff meetings, training sessions, and feedback for performance reviews.
• Help develop promotional strategies to drive sales and encourage repeat business.
• Represent the values of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and Osni and promote the store as a reflection of its cultural heritage.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership

Customer service

Communication

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Cash handling

Education

High school diploma

College degree preferred

Tools

POS systems

Cash register

Scanners

Job description

The Lead Sales Associate is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the smoke shop, including providing leadership and guidance to the sales team. This role requires someone who can deliver exceptional customer service, manage store functions in a professional and organized manner, and represent the values of Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and Osni. The Lead Sales Associate will also play an active role in driving sales and supporting inventory management.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties:

• Lead and motivate a team of Sales Associates to achieve store sales goals and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Ensure the store’s visual presentation, inventory, and merchandising standards align with company and brand guidelines.
• Provide coaching and feedback to team members to improve performance and customer service.
• Oversee daily store operations, including opening/closing procedures, change orders, daily deposits, access to safe, cash handling, and ensuring the store is adequately stocked.
• Assist customers by answering questions, offering recommendations, and completing purchases.
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with restocking and reordering items.
• Handle customer concerns or complaints with professionalism and resolve issues efficiently.
• Ensure the store adheres to operational policies, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance.
• Assist the Retail Manager in maintaining accurate sales records, reporting, and tracking of store performance.
• Communicate with Retail Manager regarding the need for staff meetings, training sessions, and feedback for performance reviews.
• Help develop promotional strategies to drive sales and encourage repeat business.
• Represent the values of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and Osni and promote the store as a reflection of its cultural heritage.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or equivalent (college degree preferred).
• 2+ years of experience in a retail or sales role preferred, with at least 1 year in a supervisory or leadership position.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Basic PC knowledge and familiarity with electronic equipment (i.e. cash register, scanners, etc.)
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs.
• Basic math and cash-handling skills.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Successful completion of drug screen, motor vehicle/criminal background check, and customer reference
• Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

The above description is intended to describe the general nature and level of the role. This is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the team member assigned to the position. Ponca Smoke Signals/Osni reserve the right to make changes to the above job description, as necessary.

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska exercises Indian preference in hiring to Ponca Tribal members and members of federally recognized tribes.

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is an at-will employer.

**This position must comply with Public Law 101-630, Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act and 25 CFR Part 63 Indian Child Protection Act.