Clerk Cashier

Join Our Gift Shop Team at the Virginia Aquarium!

Are you passionate about retail, love working with people, and have a knack for organization and merchandising? The Virginia Aquarium Gift Shopis looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Assistant Retail Buyer/Merchandiser (Assistant Store Manager) to help lead our dynamic retail team across both of our gift shops!

As the Assistant Retail Buyer/Merchandiser (Assistant Store Manager), you’ll play a key role in creating a welcoming and engaging shopping experience for our guests. You’ll support daily operations, assist with buying and merchandising, and help lead a team that’s as passionate about marine life as they are about customer service.

• Greet every guest with a smile and friendly attitude—be the face of our store!
• Drive sales through excellent customer service, suggestive selling, and product knowledge.
• Assist in managing daily store operations, including opening/closing procedures and staff direction.
• Maintain accurate cash handling procedures, including balancing drawers and safes, and making daily deposits.
• Support the Buyer with inventory management, reordering, and vendor communication.
• Create and maintain spreadsheets for purchasing and inventory tracking.
• Process invoices and payments using a purchasing card.
• Set up and maintain attractive merchandise displays.
• Lead and participate in year-end physical inventory.
• Keep the sales floor clean, organized, and well-stocked.
• Use POS systems, basic computer applications, and Portable Data Terminals (PDTs).
• Assist with ordering store supplies and other administrative tasks.

• Previous retail experience, preferably in a supervisory or keyholder role.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Basic office and computer skills (Excel, email, POS systems).
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• A positive, team-oriented attitude and a passion for customer service.
• Interest in marine life and the mission of the Virginia Aquarium is a plus!
• Enthusiasm for public education and conservation messaging.

At the Virginia Aquarium, you’ll be part of a fun, mission-driven team that supports conservation education, while providing a memorable experience for every guest. If you have retail experience and enjoy a mix of customer service and behind-the-scenes coordination, this is a great opportunity to grow your skills in a unique and inspiring environment.

40 hours/week; between the hours of 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM, including weekends and holidays; schedules may vary occasionally to meet operational needs.

Ready to dive in? Apply today and help us make waves at the Virginia Aquarium Gift Shops!