Rental & Service Sales Associate I

Department: Rental & Service

Reports To: Rental & Service Manager

POSITION SUMMARY

The Rental & Service Sales Associate I is responsible for supporting the daily operations of the Rental and Service departments while delivering exceptional customer service. This position assists customers with equipment rentals, product sales, equipment operation, maintenance, and various services offered within the department.

The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and committed to maintaining an organized, efficient, and customer-focused environment. All responsibilities must be performed in accordance with the company's Vision, Mission, and Core Values.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Customer Service and Sales

• Provide friendly, knowledgeable, and professional customer service.
• Answer incoming rental and service phone calls and assist customers with inquiries, product availability, and department services.
• Provide accurate rental rates, service quotes, and product information.
• Assist customers with selecting appropriate rental equipment, tools, and products based on their needs.
• Promote rental equipment, service offerings, and related merchandise.
• Develop knowledge of STIHL products, small engine equipment, hunting and fishing licenses, screen repair, UPS shipping, and key cutting.
• Address customer concerns professionally and involve management when necessary.

Rental Operations

• Process rental reservations, agreements, and equipment check-ins and check-outs accurately.
• Maintain organized and current rental contracts, reservation records, and customer information.
• Coordinate and schedule equipment pickups and deliveries.
• Explain proper equipment operation, safety procedures, and rental terms to customers.
• Inspect rental equipment before and after each rental to identify damage, maintenance needs, or missing components.
• Safely load and unload rental equipment and assist customers as needed.
• Perform routine cleaning, inspections, and basic maintenance of rental equipment.
• Communicate equipment concerns, repair needs, and availability to management.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe rental area.

Service Operations

• Assist with service requests, equipment intake, and customer communication regarding repairs.
• Document customer concerns, equipment information, and service requests accurately.
• Assist with basic equipment maintenance and repairs after receiving appropriate training.
• Develop knowledge of STIHL equipment, small engine maintenance, and repair procedures.
• Communicate repair status, service timelines, and equipment availability to customers as directed.
• Maintain an organized and safe service area.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines and company procedures when handling service equipment.

Inventory and Department Operations

• Maintain accurate inventory records for merchandise, rental equipment, service parts, and supplies.
• Stock, organize, and maintain merchandise displays and showroom presentation.
• Assist with receiving, labeling, and organizing products and equipment.
• Monitor inventory levels and notify management of shortages or replenishment needs.
• Follow company procedures for equipment maintenance, documentation, and inventory control.
• Provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and equipment operating instructions when requested.
• Follow all company safety policies, equipment handling procedures, and applicable regulations.

Training and Professional Development

• Obtain and maintain STIHL Bronze Certification.
• Complete required training for rental equipment, service procedures, and product knowledge.
• Develop the skills necessary to assist with small engine repair, STIHL sales and service, hunting and fishing licenses, screen repair, UPS shipping, and key cutting.
• Complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education annually directly related to the position.
• Participate in company training programs and ongoing professional development opportunities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous retail, sales, customer service, equipment rental, service, or related experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of rental equipment, power tools, and small engines preferred, with a willingness to learn.
• Valid driver's license with a driving record that meets company insurance requirements.
• Experience with Microsoft Office and basic computer applications.
• Ability to learn company point-of-sale, rental management, service, and inventory systems.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to provide accurate pricing, rental quotes, and product recommendations.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Basic mathematical, computer, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.
• Positive attitude, dependable work ethic, and willingness to assist in other areas as needed.
• Ability to follow written instructions, safety guidelines, and company procedures.
• Willingness to learn new products, equipment, and department services.
• Ability to make sound decisions and recognize when management assistance is needed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform physical tasks throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, and handle merchandise or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to safely assist with loading and unloading rental equipment using appropriate equipment and assistance.
• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments, including varying weather conditions.
• Ability to operate tools and rental equipment safely after receiving appropriate training.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

The Rental & Service Sales Associate I is expected to:

• Consistently provide excellent customer service.
• Maintain accurate rental and service documentation and transactions.
• Ensure rental equipment is clean, safe, and ready for customer use.
• Assist with service operations and maintain clear customer communication.
• Follow all company safety policies and operating procedures.
• Maintain an organized and professional department appearance.
• Complete assigned training and required certifications.
• Demonstrate reliability, accountability, teamwork, and a willingness to learn.
• Support department sales, operational efficiency, and overall company goals.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

This job description outlines the primary duties and qualifications of the position but is not intended to include every responsibility or task that may be assigned.

Job duties, responsibilities, and schedules may be adjusted based on operational requirements and the needs of the business.

All associates are expected to uphold the company's Vision, Mission, and Core Values while maintaining a safe, respectful, and customer-focused workplace.

Company Introduction

We are your local hardware store and we are a part of your community. Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently owned and operated by local entrepreneurs. These hard working men and women are part of the fabric of your community. They are small business owners who are local and loyal...just like it ought to be. While others have become large and impersonal, at Ace, we've remained small and very personal. That's why we say a visit to Ace, is like a visit to your neighbor.

Salary

Starting at $17.48 per hour