Store Manager in Training
The Salvation Army North & Central Illinois Division
About the Role
The Manager-in-Training (MIT) role is a structured, 12-week development program designed to prepare high-potential team members to become Store Managers (Level I). MITs learn every aspect of managing a thriving thrift store. New hires will complete training at established Salvation Army store locations in the Kansas City metro area for several weeks (up to approximately one month) following their start date. Upon successful completion, you’ll be eligible for promotion to Store Manager I, responsible for the day-to-day management of a store generating up to $1M in annual sales. Ideal candidates are flexible and willing to temporarily travel within the Kansas City metro area for training.
Key Responsibilities
During the MIT Program (12-Week Training)
- Store operations management, including sales, production, and donation flow
- Staff recruitment, training, supervision, and coaching for performance improvement
- Cash handling, daily deposits, and budget adherence
- OSHA safety, store maintenance, and visual merchandising standards
- Customer service, loss prevention, and product rotation procedures
- Communication and reporting requirements with Regional Management and ARC leadership
Training progress is reviewed at 30-, 60-, and 90-day checkpoints.
Upon Promotion to Store Manager I
- Lead all aspects of store operations to achieve daily, weekly, and monthly sales goals
- Recruit, train, and develop staff while promoting a positive, mission-driven culture
- Manage donation, production, and sales processes for efficiency and compliance
- Oversee store appearance, safety, and customer experience standards
- Maintain accurate financial reporting, including bank runs, deposits, and cash controls
- Monitor expenses and inventory while protecting assets from loss or waste
- Foster strong communication with Regional Managers and ARC leadership
Requirements & Tech Stack
- Full-Time | Non-Exempt
- Pay Range: $16.75/hr.
- Training Location: Kansas City Metro Area
Qualifications
- Previous retail or management experience preferred; strong internal candidates encouraged to apply
- Demonstrated leadership, initiative, and communication skills
- Positive attitude, professional integrity, and commitment to The Salvation Army mission
- Must qualify for TSA MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) and be able to perform bank runs
- Valid driver’s license required
- Ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs (occasionally up to 100 lbs)
- Must be willing and able to train at multiple Kansas City metro locations