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Goodwill Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT Morgan Memorial Goodwill Industries, Inc. complies with all aspects of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state disability laws. This means that we will not ...

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Represents the Bank through visible leadership involvement in various community-related activities to promote goodwill and generate new business. Attends community events and Bank functions ...

Goodwill information

See Amherst, MA salary details

$42.8K

$84.8K

$121.1K

How much do goodwill jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for goodwill in Amherst, MA is $84,815.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $101,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Goodwill Retail Associate, you need basic retail knowledge, strong organizational skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and basic cash handling is important. Excellent customer service, teamwork, and adaptability help associates stand out in a dynamic retail environment. These skills ensure efficient store operations, positive customer experiences, and successful achievement of Goodwill’s mission.

What does Goodwill not take for donations?

Goodwill typically does not accept hazardous materials, large appliances, furniture with stains or damage, or items that are broken or unsafe. They also do not accept used mattresses, car seats, or items that do not meet safety standards. Donors should ensure items are clean and in good condition before donating.

Does Goodwill wash clothes before putting them out?

Goodwill employees typically do not wash clothing before putting it out for sale. Items are usually sorted, inspected, and priced, but washing is generally not part of the process unless specified or requested. Workers may clean or spot-treat items if necessary, depending on store policies and available resources.

What are Goodwill employees and what do they do?

Goodwill employees work for Goodwill Industries, a nonprofit organization that provides job training, employment placement services, and other community-based programs for people facing challenges to finding employment. Employees may work in retail stores, donation centers, warehouses, or administrative offices. Their roles can include sorting donations, assisting customers, running cash registers, managing inventory, or supporting job training programs. Goodwill aims to create employment opportunities and strengthen communities through the power of work.

What are typical career advancement opportunities for employees working at Goodwill stores?

Employees at Goodwill stores often have clear paths for career growth, starting with entry-level retail positions and progressing to supervisory or management roles. Goodwill is known for promoting from within and offers training programs to help employees develop leadership and operational skills. Many team members advance to roles such as shift leader, assistant manager, and store manager, while others may transition into specialized positions in logistics, human resources, or vocational training. The organization values dedication and a strong work ethic, making it a supportive environment for professional development.

What do they mean by Goodwill?

In a job context, Goodwill typically refers to the nonprofit organization that operates thrift stores and provides job training and employment services. Working for Goodwill may involve retail, customer service, or warehouse tasks, often requiring teamwork and basic skills. The term can also refer to the positive reputation or value a company has beyond its tangible assets, but in employment, it most commonly relates to the organization itself.

Is Goodwill a good place to donate books?

Goodwill is a reputable organization that accepts book donations to support its job training and community programs. Donating books to Goodwill helps fund their services and provides affordable items to the community. It is a common and convenient option for donating used books.

What is the difference between Goodwill vs Retail Associate?

AspectGoodwillRetail Associate
Primary RoleNonprofit thrift store operator, focusing on donations and community servicesSales and customer service in retail stores
Required SkillsCustomer service, donation processing, basic merchandisingCustomer service, sales, inventory management
Work EnvironmentThrift stores, donation centers, community programsRetail stores, shopping floors
CertificationsNone typically requiredNone typically required

Goodwill and Retail Associate roles both involve customer service and retail work, but Goodwill operates as a nonprofit organization focusing on donations and community programs, while Retail Associates work in for-profit retail stores primarily handling sales and merchandising.

What job categories do people searching Goodwill jobs in Amherst, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Goodwill jobs in Amherst, MA are:
What cities near Amherst, MA are hiring for Goodwill jobs? Cities near Amherst, MA with the most Goodwill job openings:
Infographic showing various Goodwill job openings in Amherst, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,815 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

$16.94/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Goodwill of Western and Northern Connecticut is seeking driven individuals to join us in our mission to help others and serve our local communities.

Our Retail Stores support and even provide funding to different Goodwill programs that assist people with obtaining meaningful employment and bettering their overall quality of life.

As a Retail Associate, you would be an essential part of ensuring the success of our stores and Goodwill’s mission. When a retail team member assists a Goodwill shopper find a treasure on the shelves, they aren’t just providing excellent customer service but also helping others in the community.


Positions Available: Part Time, nights and weekends preferred


What Goodwill can offer you:

  • Opportunities for career advancement
  • A benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision (employee paid), as well as ancillary benefits including long and short term disability, and life insurance (Goodwill paid)*
  • These benefits available 1st of the month, following 60 days of employment*
  • Two (2) weeks' vacation, four (4) personal days, and seven (7) days of sick time (For those working more than 20 hours a week)
  • Up to $3,000 in qualified Tuition Reimbursement*
  • Nine (9) Paid holidays (based on standard weekly hours)
  • 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan, including Employer Match
  • 50% Employee Discount
  • $50 work anniversary gift for every year of continuous service (for part-time and full-time team members)
  • $200 Referral Program (for every candidate hired that you refer to Goodwill)

*Only available for Full-Time Team Members


Responsibilities:

  • Assisting Goodwill Store customers to ensure a pleasant shopping experience
  • Operating a cash register
  • Organizing and displaying goods in the store
  • Accepting and processing donated items
  • Maintaining a clean and neat store

Position Requirements:

  • Basic knowledge of English
  • Basic math skills for cash handling
  • Availability to work day, evening, and weekend shifts as necessary (especially if a full-time schedule is desired)
  • Being prepared for considerable standing, reaching, lifting, carrying, bending, pushing, and pulling. Must be able to lift over 40 pounds.

Start your journey with Goodwill today by applying at gwct.org/about/work-here

Is this position not right for you? We can help you find the right one at Goodwill or any other employer through our Career Centers! Receive free career assistance services from Goodwill (including Resume Builds/Revisions, Online Job Searching Coaching, Interview Skills, and more) at gwct.org/career-coaching