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Build A Bear Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sales Associate - Build-a-Bear

Bloomington, MN

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Description Bear Builder associates are fun, easy-going, team-oriented individuals who engage with guests, to create a unique and memorable experience. Responsibilities: Provide exceptional guest ...

New

Sales Associate - Build-a-Bear

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Description Bear Builder associates are fun, easy-going, team-oriented individuals who engage with guests, to create a unique and memorable experience. Responsibilities: Provide exceptional guest ...

Apply Early

Sales Associate - Build-a-Bear

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Description Bear Builder associates are fun, easy-going, team-oriented individuals who engage with guests, to create a unique and memorable experience. Responsibilities: Provide exceptional guest ...

New

Sales Associate - Build-a-Bear

Minneapolis, MN

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Description Bear Builder associates are fun, easy-going, team-oriented individuals who engage with guests, to create a unique and memorable experience. Responsibilities: Provide exceptional guest ...

Apply Early

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Build A Bear information

See salary details

$33K

$79.3K

$135.5K

How much do build a bear jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for build a bear in the United States is $79,281.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $95,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Build-A-Bear Workshop Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Build-A-Bear Workshop Associate, you need strong customer service skills, retail experience, and a basic understanding of sales processes. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and inventory management tools is typically required. Creativity, enthusiasm, and excellent interpersonal communication make associates stand out by creating memorable experiences for guests. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering exceptional service, driving sales, and fostering a fun, engaging store environment for customers of all ages.

What are Build-A-Bear Workshop employees responsible for?

Build-A-Bear Workshop employees, often called Bear Builders, help guests create personalized stuffed animals. They guide customers through the process of choosing, stuffing, dressing, and personalizing their bears and other plush toys. Employees also provide excellent customer service, operate cash registers, maintain store displays, and assist with special events or birthday parties. Their role is to create a fun and memorable experience for guests of all ages.

What are Build-a-Bear employees called?

Build-A-Bear employees are commonly referred to as associates or team members. They are responsible for customer service, helping guests create stuffed animals, and maintaining store operations. The company emphasizes a friendly, engaging environment for both employees and customers.

What are some common challenges faced by Build-A-Bear Workshop associates and how can they be overcome?

Build-A-Bear Workshop associates often encounter challenges such as managing high guest traffic during peak hours, handling excited children and families, and maintaining a positive atmosphere while meeting sales goals. Overcoming these challenges involves strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to multitask efficiently. Associates benefit from thorough training, teamwork, and focusing on creating memorable guest experiences, which can make busy shifts more manageable and rewarding.

What is the difference between Build A Bear vs Retail Sales Associate?

AspectBuild A BearRetail Sales Associate
Required CredentialsNo formal certifications needed; customer service skills preferredHigh school diploma often required; customer service experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentRetail store focused on toys and entertainmentVaries by store; retail settings across industries
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily retail toy storesVarious retail sectors including clothing, electronics, and more
Common Search & ComparisonCustomer service, retail jobs, toy store employmentSales associate, retail jobs, customer service roles

Build A Bear and Retail Sales Associate roles both involve customer service in retail environments. Build A Bear specializes in toy retail with a focus on creating personalized stuffed animals, while Retail Sales Associates work across various retail sectors. The key differences lie in the industry focus and specific product knowledge required.

How much does Buildabear pay an hour?

Build-A-Bear Workshop retail associates typically earn around minimum wage, which varies by location but is generally between $8 and $12 per hour. Pay rates may increase with experience or additional responsibilities, and employees often receive employee discounts and flexible scheduling.

Does Build-a-Bear hire at 17?

Build-A-Bear Workshop typically hires employees who are at least 16 years old, so 17-year-olds are generally eligible to apply for part-time or seasonal positions. Applicants may need to meet specific state or local age requirements and complete an employment application and interview process.

How to get hired at Build-a-Bear?

To get hired at Build-A-Bear, applicants should submit an online application through their careers website or in-store, demonstrating customer service skills and enthusiasm for the brand. Retail positions often require availability during weekends and holidays, and previous retail experience can be beneficial. Interview processes typically include a face-to-face interview and possibly a background check.
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Sales Associate - Build-a-Bear

Sales Associate - Build-a-Bear

Build-a-Bear

Bloomington, MN

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Build-A-Bear Workshop rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

558th of 722 rated retailers


Job description

Description
Bear Builder associates are fun, easy-going, team-oriented individuals who engage with guests, to create a unique and memorable experience.
Responsibilities:
Provide exceptional guest service by assisting guests in creating their personalized furry friends, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience
Actively engage with guests demonstrating genuine enthusiasm for our brand
Create a warm and inclusive atmosphere for guests, fostering positive interactions, and guaranteeing that each guest leaves satisfied with their experience
Uphold operational excellence by consistently meeting brand standards and guidelines, ensuring a seamless and cohesive experience for all guests
Strong team commitment; be dependable, engaged, and helpful
Required Qualifications:
High school diploma or GED equivalent
Preferred Qualifications:
Associate’s (or higher) degree in business, management, or a related field
Behavioral Traits for Success:
Possesses a “How Can I Help” attitude
Enjoys meeting and interacting with new people
Dependable and flexible
Models personal and professional integrity
Naturally warm and fun-loving
Ability to remain calm under challenging circumstances
Working Environment:
Active retail store leadership requires the ability to sit, stand, and move around for duration of shift
Work environments include indoor/outdoor malls, strip centers, and other retail locations
Lift > 25 pounds
Your Performance Will Be Measured On:
Your performance will be measured by your ability to achieve annual department objectives and corporate goals which include but are not limited to the following.
Decision-making, judgment, and execution
Ability to create an Experience First culture for guests and associates
Achievement of assigned goals
Consistent execution of operational standards
Stakeholder feedback
This description is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Supervisors may assign additional functions and requirements as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent an expressed or implied contract of employment, nor does it alter your at-will employment, and Build-A-Bear, Inc. reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as may deem appropriate.
Benefits:
Build-A-Bear Workshop® is committed to being a fun place to work and visit! We care about the health and well-being and long-term financial security of our associates and their families. With that in mind, we constantly strive to provide our associates with comprehensive benefits that are competitive and meaningful in the specialty retail marketplace. Please visit www.buildabear.com/brand-about-careers-benefits.html for a list of full benefits that are offered to our employees.
Associates also have the ability to earn a monthly bonus based off their stores sales results vs. plans.

What Build-A-Bear Workshop employees say

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About Build-A-Bear Workshop

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Build-A-Bear Workshop is an iconic retail company based in Saint Louis, MO, US, operating in the specialty retail and personal services industry. Known for its unique and innovative business model, the company sells teddy bears and other stuffed animals that customers can customize with a range of clothes, accessories and sounds. Established in 1997, it all started with a child's desire to make her own stuffed toy. The fundamental mission of Build-A-Bear is to add a little more heart to life by inspiring kids of all ages to follow their dreams. The company has gained recognition for its achievements, including being named to the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for multiple years.

Industry

Retail

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1997

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