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Goodwill Work Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Goodwill of SWPA EE

Goodwill Intern/Volunteer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

We offer life-changing work on a mission-minded team. We are 1,000 working as one, and each of us is essential to helping our community thrive. For three years running, Goodwill has been named to ...

Goodwill Industries

Shop Goodwill Associate

Detroit, MI · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

Are you seeking an opportunity to work and at the same time give back to the community. If so, Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit is the place for you. We have openings for a Shop Goodwill ...

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How much do goodwill work jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for goodwill work in the United States is $19.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Goodwill employee, you generally need strong customer service skills, basic retail or warehouse experience, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory tracking software, and safe material handling procedures is often required. Dependability, teamwork, and a positive attitude are essential soft skills that help create a welcoming environment for customers and coworkers. These abilities ensure efficient store operations, excellent customer experiences, and support Goodwill’s mission-driven workplace.

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

Employees at Goodwill often encounter challenges such as managing a fast-paced retail environment, handling a diverse range of donated goods, and providing customer service to a wide variety of shoppers. Adapting to shifting tasks—from sorting donations to operating the register—can require flexibility and strong organizational skills. Teamwork and open communication with supervisors can help address these challenges, and Goodwill typically provides on-the-job training and support to ensure employees feel prepared and valued as part of the mission-driven team.

What is Goodwill work?

Goodwill work refers to employment opportunities and job training programs provided by Goodwill Industries, a nonprofit organization. Goodwill offers a range of jobs in retail stores, donation centers, and administrative offices, along with supportive services like resume building and interview coaching. The goal is to help individuals with barriers to employment gain valuable skills and experience so they can find and maintain meaningful work. Goodwill also reinvests proceeds from its stores into community-based programs to further support job seekers.

What is the difference between Goodwill Work vs Retail Associate?

AspectGoodwill WorkRetail Associate
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic customer service skillsHigh school diploma or equivalent, customer service experience
Work EnvironmentNonprofit thrift stores, donation centersRetail stores, shopping environments
Employer & Industry UsageGoodwill Industries, nonprofit sectorPrivate retail chains, department stores
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Goodwill Work typically involves roles in nonprofit thrift stores focusing on donation processing, customer service, and community support. Retail Associate positions are found in commercial retail stores, emphasizing sales, stocking, and customer interaction. While both roles require similar skills and work environments, Goodwill Work is associated with nonprofit missions, whereas Retail Associates work in for-profit retail settings.

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Goodwill Work jobs near you
Infographic showing various Goodwill Work job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,562 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Goodwill Vermont Retail Associate

Goodwill Vermont Retail Associate

Goodwill

South Burlington, VT • On-site

$15.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Goodwill Of Central & Southern Indiana rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

583rd of 671 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Goodwill is looking for friendly, outgoing people to join our growing team in either our Williston or South Burlington Vermont Stores! If you love providing great customer experience, Goodwill is the place for you!
Location: South Burlington OR Williston VT
Pay: Starting at $15.50
Our retail stores offer a variety of roles and we are looking for people willing and ready to become a jack of all trades. A typical day could be working in one of the roles below!
Donation Specialist:
- In this role, you'll greet donors, accept and sort donations, and then get those donations to the pricing team. Quick decision-making is a must. Goodwill NNE also expects Donation Specialists to be able to say, "no thank you" to items we cannot accept, and politely explain why to each donor.
Production Specialist:
- In this role, you'll sort, inspect, and price donations before they're sent to the sales floor. If you enjoy physical tasks, have a knowledge of (or willingness to learn) the value of clothing, housewares, or electronics then working as a Production Specialist might be the new career you're looking for.
Sales Associate:
- In this role, you'll greet customers and, provide an excellent customer experience! Responsibilities will include running the register, putting merchandise on the sales floor, pulling older merchandise to make room for new product, attending the fitting rooms, and setting a friendly atmosphere for customers and co-workers alike!
Minimum Qualifications:
• Positive Attitude: A must! Display a friendly and positive demeanor to create a welcoming work environment.
• Basic Math and Literacy Skills: Essential for handling transactions and supporting job duties.
• Flexibility: Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and some holidays, based on business needs. All associates in any position will be required to work at least a Saturday or Sunday every weekend.
• Background Check: Pass a criminal background check meeting agency standards.
• Physical Abilities: Can exert up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally, 30 lbs. of force frequently, and 10 lbs. of force constantly to move objects.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Retail Experience or Certification: Prior retail experience or relevant certification is a plus.
• Education: High school diploma, GED, HiSET, or equivalent educational background.
What We Offer:
At Goodwill Northern New England, we believe in supporting our employees just as much as they support our mission. In addition to working in a fulfilling and supportive environment, our employees enjoy:
• Medical, Vision, and Dental benefits
• Generous PTO Plan
• Paid Holidays
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• 50% Employee discount at Goodwill stores in ME, NH & VT
• Valuable job training with growth potential and more!
What sets Goodwill NNE apart is its unique commitment to the well-being of its employees. They offer private "life navigation" services, including free counseling and other assistance, helping individuals facing challenging circumstances achieve personal stability. In addition, all employees have access to telehealth services, ensuring their physical and mental health needs are met. Goodwill NNE's Citizenship Behaviors foster a workplace culture of inclusivity and respect, emphasizing kindness, openness, active listening, and support. Joining the Goodwill NNE team means a fulfilling career and the chance to be part of a community that genuinely cares about its employees and their well-being.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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