Retail/Warehouse Associate
Coastal Foodshed Inc.Retail/Warehouse Associate Job Description About Us Coastal Foodshed (CFS) is a nonprofit food hub based in New Bedford, MA. Our mission is to strengthen the local food system by making it easier for farmers and food producers to sell their products and for the community to access healthy, affordable, local food—especially in underserved households. We work with over 70 farmers and local food producers to source and distribute regionally grown food across the Southcoast of Massachusetts. Through both retail and wholesale channels, we supply food to individuals, schools, farms, and food pantries. We also operate a retail market at our food hub that is open to the public to shop for farm fresh, local food. Position Overview The Retail/Warehouse Associate supports the day-to-day operations of Coastal Foodshed, including warehouse activities, inventory management, order fulfillment, and retail market operations. This position helps ensure that products are received, stored, handled, and distributed safely and efficiently while maintaining a welcoming and well-stocked retail environment. The ideal candidate is dependable, organized, adaptable, and comfortable working in a hands-on, fast-paced environment. Responsibilities include receiving and organizing products, maintaining inventory and product quality, packing orders, stocking the retail market, assisting customers, and supporting pickup and delivery operations. We’re looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, takes initiative, and brings a strong sense of urgency to their work. This is a part-time position with the opportunity for increased hours and growth as the food hub continues to expand. Responsibilities Food Hub Warehouse Assist with daily warehouse operations, including receiving, sorting, aggregating, staging, packing, and preparing products for distribution. Assist with inventory management, including receiving deliveries, verifying quantities, tracking products, and maintaining accurate inventory records. Inspect incoming and stored products for freshness, quality, and condition, and communicate any concerns. Maintain organized cold and dry storage areas, ensuring products are stored safely and appropriately. Follow first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory practices to maintain product quality and minimize waste. Help maintain clean, organized, and safe warehouse and storage spaces. Support day-to-day food hub operations and assist with tasks across departments as needed. Retail Market & Order Fulfillment Assist customers and provide a welcoming in-store shopping experience. Fulfill online orders through Shopify, including picking, packing, and preparing orders for pickup and delivery. Operate the register/POS system, including credit card and SNAP/EBT transactions. Stock shelves, coolers, and displays, and assist with merchandising retail products. Help maintain a clean, organized, and inviting market. Support the coordination of pickup and delivery orders to ensure accuracy and timeliness. Qualifications Friendly and reliable with a positive attitude Comfortable working independently and as part of a team Able to work at a fast pace, stay productive throughout a shift, and keep tasks moving without sacrificing accuracy or quality Dependable, organized, and able to manage multiple tasks in a changing work environment Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to identify priorities and take initiative independently Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stay active during shifts Interest in local food, farming, and community-centered work Retail, food service, or customer service experience is a plus, but not required Schedule & Availability This position requires availability for three consistent 6-hour shifts per week: Tuesdays: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM Wednesdays: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM Fridays: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM These are core shifts for the role, with potential for additional hours based on demand and candidate availability. Wa…