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Goodwill Store Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

... store and donation center operations, travel required. When determining placement within the salary range for this position Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago considers education, experience ...

In the absence of the Store Manager, the Assistant Manager is responsible for leading the entire operation of the Store to ensure that Company standards and best practices are consistently met.

In the absence of the Store Manager, the Assistant Manager is responsible for leading the entire operation of the Store to ensure that Company standards and best practices are consistently met.

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Goodwill Store information

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How much do goodwill store jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for goodwill store in DeKalb, IL is $22.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Goodwill Store?

A Goodwill Store is a retail outlet operated by Goodwill Industries, a nonprofit organization. These stores sell donated items such as clothing, furniture, electronics, and household goods at affordable prices. The revenue generated supports community programs, including job training and employment services for people facing barriers to employment. Shopping or donating at Goodwill helps fund these local initiatives and promotes sustainability by giving items a second life.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working at a Goodwill Store, and how can they be addressed?

Employees at a Goodwill Store often face challenges such as managing a high volume of donated items, maintaining organization on the sales floor, and assisting a diverse range of customers. Efficient teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and colleagues are essential in overcoming these challenges. Employees can also benefit from developing strong multitasking and problem-solving skills, as well as embracing the store's mission-driven environment to stay motivated and engaged.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Goodwill Store Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Goodwill Store Associate, you need strong customer service skills, basic math proficiency, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and cash handling procedures is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help associates excel in a fast-paced retail environment. These abilities are essential to deliver excellent service, maintain efficient store operations, and support Goodwill’s mission.

What is the difference between Goodwill Store vs Retail Associate?

AspectGoodwill StoreRetail Associate
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic customer service skillsHigh school diploma or equivalent, customer service experience
Work EnvironmentRetail setting, donation processing, sales floorRetail environment, assisting customers, stocking shelves
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit thrift stores, retail industryFor-profit retail stores, retail industry
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level retail roles in nonprofit settingsCommon retail job, but less frequently compared to nonprofit stores

Goodwill Store employees typically focus on donation processing and supporting a nonprofit mission, while Retail Associates work in for-profit retail settings handling sales and customer service. Both roles require similar skills but differ mainly in employer type and work environment.

How to pass a Goodwill Store interview?

To pass a Goodwill Store interview, prepare by researching the organization, understanding the job responsibilities, and demonstrating good customer service skills. Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and answer questions clearly and honestly, highlighting relevant experience and a positive attitude. Showing reliability and a willingness to work as part of a team can improve your chances of success.

What positions are available at Goodwill Store?

Goodwill Stores typically offer positions such as cashier, sales associate, donation attendant, stock clerk, and management roles. These jobs often require customer service skills, the ability to operate cash registers, and physical stamina for stocking and organizing merchandise.

What are popular job titles related to Goodwill Store jobs in DeKalb, IL?

For Goodwill Store jobs in DeKalb, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Goodwill Store jobs in DeKalb, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Goodwill Store jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Goodwill Store jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Goodwill Store job openings:

Infographic showing various Goodwill Store job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $46,694 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Donation Attendant Part-Time

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF NORTHERN IL

Huntley, IL • On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Receive donations, process textiles and hard goods, and prepare items for transit.

  • Provide responsive and respectful customer service to donors, including greeting, assisting, and answering questions.

  • Sort, salvage, trash, and manage inventory of donations according to store standards.


Job description


Accountability:

Responsible for all duties as assigned by the Store Manager, including receiving donations; providing exceptional customer service; sorting, salvaging, trashing and processing textiles, hard goods, and commercial goods; and preparing goods for transit.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions:

Communication

  • Provides responsive and respectful service to donors. Demonstrates a commitment to excellence in customer service, by effectively communicating with donors. Complies with standards such as: greet donors promptly and politely (in 30 seconds), assist in unloading vehicles, thank donors for supporting Goodwill, answer questions, appropriately decline donations, educate donors on the "Can't Use" list and recall items, provide tax information, complete donor receipts and all required forms accurately and efficiently while maintaining positive communication with the donor.
  • Responsive and respectful towards others within the organization. Promotes internal and external customer service through effective communication. Displays appropriate behavior (courteous and respectful interactions) with fellow employees.

Inventory Management

  • Processes hard goods (wares, electrical, furniture, books, shoes, accessories). This includes sorting based on store criteria, minimizing trash, and salvaging as applicable.
  • Sorts textiles based on the store standards. Discards only approved items into trash, and places miscellaneous items in appropriate containers, i.e. recycling, totes, carts, etc.
  • Identifies items that are priced by management, i.e. wedding gowns, furs, formals.
  • Assists in preparing and in receiving trucks.

Safety

  • Consistently follows established safety rules. Reports safety accidents and hazards when known and in a timely manner. Maintains a safe, clean, and orderly work area. Utilizes the proper equipment and supplies in meeting the safety standards.
  • Uses assigned tools and equipment: pallet jacks, dollies, etc. May be trained and certified on power stacker.

Other

  • Tracks number of donations and zip codes for donors by entering information into laptop.
  • Maintains workstation supplies.
  • Completes work station 5 minute clean up daily.
  • Demonstrates regard for Goodwill's assets including property, and equipment.

The above list of responsibilities is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities or duties required. Employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned.

Environment:

This position is based in a retail store environment and involves regular interaction with customers and team members. Duties include work in the warehouse area, which can involve exposure to varying temperatures, noise, dust, and the physical handling of goods. The role requires standing and walking for extended periods, frequent bending and lifting, and the ability to safely move merchandise and materials. Flexibility to shift between customer-facing and warehouse responsibilities is essential. Weekend and evening work required.

Sensory and Physical Requirements:

Ability to efficiently and effectively perform all functions of the job. Ability to stand, bend, lift, and reach for long periods of time. Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and occasionally lift up to 80 pounds. Use of both hands. Good manual and finger dexterity. Ability to inspect and eliminate non-saleable donations.

Disclaimer:

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. The employee will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by the employee's supervisor. Requirements are representative of the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities to perform this job successfully. The incumbent will possess the abilities or aptitude to perform each duty proficiently. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate persons with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who represent a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise.

Goodwill of Northern Illinois is an equal opportunity employer.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise. The employment relationship is at will.

Qualifications & Basic Job Requirements:

  • Ability to effectively and respectfully communicate with the public and customers (internal and external).
  • Ability to count, add, and subtract.
  • Ability to follow instructions and work independently.
  • Ability to follow all safety rules.
  • Must be able to operate a pricing gun and price merchandise appropriately.

Key Benefits We Offer:

Flexible work schedule, Store discount, IL PTO, Cultural observance day, Tuition reimbursement, 401k, Voluntary Aflac and Career advancement opportunities.