Retail Operations Supervisor

State of Minnesota; Granite Falls (MN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking state agency as a Retail Operations Supervisor! In this dynamic role, you will oversee the merchandise program for a popular state park, ensuring that visitors have access to quality products that enhance their outdoor experience. You'll lead a dedicated team, manage inventory, and implement visual merchandising strategies to promote Minnesota's natural beauty. This position offers a unique opportunity to blend retail management with environmental stewardship, all while contributing to the community's well-being. If you're passionate about retail and the outdoors, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Benefits

Paid vacation and sick leave

12 paid holidays each year

Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans

Pension plan

Employer paid life insurance

Short-term and long-term disability insurance

Tax-free expense accounts

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Training and professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in retail operations management required.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and train staff for efficient store operations.
• Manage merchandise purchasing and inventory for the Nature Store.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Customer Service

Budget Management

Visual Merchandising

Education

Associate's degree in Retail Management Operations

Bachelor's degree in Retail Management Operations

Tools

Inventory Control Software

Word Processing Software

Spreadsheet Software

Job description

At the DNR, we are committed to the conservation and management of the state's natural resources for outdoor recreation, economic development, and a sustainable quality of life. Apply with us and find your path.

Working Title: Retail Operations Supervisor
Job Class: Retail Operations Supervisor
Agency: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 84495
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 03/04/2025
• Closing Date: 03/24/2025
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: Parks and Trails
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Varies
• Travel Required: Yes, Occasional
• Salary Range: $28.90 - $41.98 / hourly; $60,343 - $87,654 / annually
• Bargaining Unit: 216 - Middle Management Association

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking to fill one (1) permanent, full-time Retail Operations Supervisor at Gooseberry Falls State Park. Hours of work are 8:00am - 4:30pm, and the days of work vary depending on the needs of the park.

This position exists to develop, implement, monitor, and maintain a merchandise program (including quality clothing, food, gift, and souvenir items) for the Gooseberry Falls State Park Nature Store, and to assist the statewide merchandise program and other state park nature stores, as requested. The program is designed to promote Minnesota State Parks, provide merchandise of an educational nature to the public, and generate revenue to be used to fund resource management and interpretive projects for the state park.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Recruit, interview, hire, train, supervise, delegate, evaluate, discipline and reward employees so that the Nature Store and Travel Information Center at Gooseberry Falls State Park is an efficient, productive and profitable operation.
• Purchase merchandise for resale for Gooseberry Falls State Park. This merchandise focuses on the diverse natural and cultural resource themes of Minnesota State Parks. Products will support the goals of the retail program by generating profit to support resource management and interpretive programs, promote Minnesota State Parks and provide convenience items to park visitors. As requested, consult with and purchase for other locations in the statewide Nature Store program.
• Direct and implement visual merchandise displays at Gooseberry Falls State Park to best present products to the park visitor. As requested, assist with the visual merchandising for new stores, resets, and remodels at other state parks.
• Determine and monitor the budget for the Gooseberry Falls State Park merchandise program and provide input on the statewide merchandise budget as requested – to include staffing levels, fixtures and product for resale - expenses from the WCA for nature store inventory, consignment operations, and consumables (firewood, ice, and pop) so that park visitors’ expectations are met, and profit is generated.
• Direct the inventory of the nature store merchandise program using proper receiving and distribution procedures utilizing current inventory control software.
• Administer merchandise and vehicle permit sales in the Nature Store during shoulder season or when short-staffed. Perform public contact and other duties as needed.

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement. This position will require reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Retail Management Operations, Business Management or closely related field and TWO YEARS of experience and knowledge in retail operations management that includes experience in retail management, product development and selection, market trends and consumer preferences, business management, visual merchandising, writing product specifications, pricing merchandise, and managing inventory sufficient to operate a successful and profitable business.

OR

• Bachelor's degree in Retail Management Operations, Business Management or closely related field may substitute for one year of experience listed above.

AND

• Leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills to direct, develop, motivate, and engage staff.
• Knowledge of budget policies, procedures, and regulations sufficient to manage and administer budgets and to deliver products in a cost-effective manner.
• Communication skills sufficient to communicate work requirements to individuals and groups.
• Writing skills sufficient to communicate work plans, proposals and reports.
• Customer service and communication skills sufficient to conduct visitor services and public relations activities to ensure a positive visitor experience.
• Organizational and administrative skills sufficient to organize diverse elements of work and perform tasks within administrative requirements.
• Word processing skills sufficient to draft letters, memos, correspondence, etc.
• Spreadsheet skills sufficient to create, edit and modify spreadsheets.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, visual merchandising, or closely related field.
• Experience supervising employees in a union environment.
• Knowledge of latest innovations in retail store design, retail displays, and merchandising for maximum visual and sales impact.
• Creative and artistic ability to conceptualize and design products.
• Knowledge of state purchasing procedures.
• Knowledge and understanding of natural, cultural, and recreational resources sufficient to develop park specific merchandise.
• Knowledge of legal boundaries on production of artwork such as copyright and trademark issues.

Additional Requirements

This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's License with a clear driving record.

Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H1B status).

It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at [e-mail].

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov.)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email [e-mail] and let us know the support you need.