1

Goodwill Thrift Store Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Everyone knows Goodwill for our thrift stores, but few know what Goodwill is really all about. The sale of donated items provides funds that stays local, supporting thousands of job-seekers with ...

Everyone knows Goodwill for our thrift stores, but few know what Goodwill is really all about. The sale of donated items provides funds that stays local, supporting thousands of job-seekers with ...

Serves as a Goodwill ambassador to the community. * Transfers to different stores at any given ... Two years' work experience in Retail Management, preferably thrift * One-year customer service ...

Senior Store Manager

Ross, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Serves as a Goodwill ambassador to the community. * Transfers to different stores at any given ... Three or more years of experience leading 40+ FTEs in a high-volume thrift environment * Candidates ...

Goodwill Thrift Store information

See California salary details

$11

$22

$34

How much do goodwill thrift store jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for goodwill thrift store in California is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Goodwill Thrift Store?

Goodwill Thrift Stores are retail outlets operated by Goodwill Industries, a nonprofit organization. These stores sell donated clothing, furniture, household goods, and other items at affordable prices. The revenue generated supports community programs such as job training, employment placement services, and other essential community-based programs. Shopping or donating at Goodwill Thrift Stores helps fund these initiatives and reduces waste by promoting the reuse of goods.

What are common challenges faced by employees working at a Goodwill Thrift Store, and how are they typically addressed?

Employees at a Goodwill Thrift Store often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of donated items, ensuring quality control, and providing excellent customer service to a diverse clientele. Team members learn to prioritize tasks efficiently, work collaboratively, and communicate clearly to maintain an organized and welcoming store environment. Training and support from managers help staff handle busy periods, solve customer issues, and adapt to changing inventory demands, making the work both dynamic and rewarding.

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

To thrive as a Goodwill Thrift Store Associate, you need strong customer service skills, basic math abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management tools, and donation processing procedures is typically required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and a positive attitude help associates provide a welcoming environment and handle diverse customer interactions. These skills are crucial for creating a positive shopping experience, maintaining store efficiency, and supporting Goodwill's mission.

What is the difference between Goodwill Thrift Store vs Retail Sales Associate?

AspectGoodwill Thrift StoreRetail Sales Associate
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; customer service skillsHigh school diploma or equivalent; customer service skills
Work EnvironmentNon-profit thrift store setting, often volunteer-involvedFor-profit retail store, fast-paced customer interactions
Employer & IndustryGoodwill Industries, nonprofit retail sectorVarious retail companies, retail industry

Both roles involve customer service and sales skills, but Goodwill Thrift Store positions focus on supporting a nonprofit mission, often with volunteer opportunities, while Retail Sales Associates work in for-profit retail environments. The core skills and credentials are similar, but the work setting and organizational goals differ.

What are popular job titles related to Goodwill Thrift Store jobs in California?

For Goodwill Thrift Store jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Goodwill Thrift Store jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Goodwill Thrift Store jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Goodwill Thrift Store jobs?

Cities in California with the most Goodwill Thrift Store job openings:

Infographic showing various Goodwill Thrift Store job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,951 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Goodwill Industries of SJV has a rich, 100 year+ history.
Everyone knows Goodwill for our thrift stores, but few know what
Goodwill is really all about. The sale of donated items provides funds
that stays local, supporting thousands of job-seekers with barriers to
employment. We believe in the Power of Work and are committed to helping
people earn and keep jobs in our community.

Job Description

We're looking for new leaders  who want more than just a job. We operate 18 retail stores in California Central Valley. Now is the time to join the next generation of Goodwill. Visit www.goodwill-sjv.org to learn more about our agency.

As a Store Manager, you have the opportunity to manage all operational and sales aspects of a store for a fast paced leader in the retail thrift industry. Build your high performing team, infuse store sales and performance, and enjoy your success as a Store Manager!

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Direct and monitor store operations to drive revenue growth and ensure monthly sales, payroll and production budgets are met.  
  • Develop and execute action plans to correct deficiencies in achievement of budgeted outcomes.
  • Select, train, coach and schedule personnel (employees, program participants and volunteers) to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Administer disciplinary action, as needed, in accordance with Agency policies and procedures.
  • Demonstrate and promote superior customer service. Leads by example and
    expects the highest level of customer service.
  • Responsible for adherence to the Agency's safety program, OSHA and IIPP compliance
  • Responsible for the accurate handling of donated assets and monies involved in store operations, including daily deposits,banking and change.
  • Responsible for achievement of daily production goals, ensuring a trained member of the store management/leadership team has checked all merchandise against agency quality standards prior to
    sending to the sales floor.
  • Must be able to work any shift



Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education Required: Accredited Associate's degree or equivalent. Experience may be substituted for education on a two -years to one-year basis.

Experience Required: Five (5) years management level experience in retail sales or a related environment, including a minimum of two (2) years experience interviewing/hiring of entry-level positions and conducting employee performance management including separations.

Equipment Used: Point of Sale system, calculator, cash mate machine, safe, alarm system, time recorder and ticketing equipment, multi-line telephone, voice mail, hand truck, pallet jack, power lift, product storage,
labeling and processing equipment

Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.