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Goodwill Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

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Goodwill information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$42.4K

$84K

$120K

How much do goodwill jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for goodwill in Appleton, WI is $84,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $101,000.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Goodwill jobs in Appleton, WI? The most popular types of Goodwill jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Goodwill jobs in Appleton, WI? For Goodwill jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Goodwill jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Goodwill job openings:
Employment Coach - Fox Cities (Full Time)

Employment Coach - Fox Cities (Full Time)

Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin

Menasha, WI • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Goodwill NCW rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

475th of 707 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Who We Are:
Goodwill NCW is a nonprofit organization with 28 retail stores across north-central Wisconsin. We are proud of the life-transforming impact we make in our communities and to our planet with the help of our donors and shoppers. Together, we bring our values to life, power our mission of elevating people by eliminating barriers to employment and transform lives through skill building for sustained employment and improved financial stability. Our unwavering commitment to addressing the unique needs of our communities drives us to continuously evolve.
What You'll Get To Do:
  • Provides individualized coaching and training to participants with diverse abilities across various settings, focusing on both job-specific and soft skills to meet employment standards.
  • Collaborates with Case Manager and/or Career Navigator to identify participants' strengths, unique needs, interests, and areas for growth to determine the most effective training methods, while utilizing person centered approaches.
  • Collaborates and communicates with supervisors, team leaders, work site contacts, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure instructional support aligns with each participant's requirements.
  • Monitors and documents participant performance and behavior, ensuring all required records, including case notes, are completed accurately and within established timeframes.
  • Orients participants at new training sites. Ensure participants comply with site policies and safety guidelines.
  • Participates in accrediting, licensing, and funding audit meetings as required.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What We Need From You:
  • High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
  • 1+ year(s) of experience working with individuals with barriers is preferred.
  • Excellent time management and prioritization skills and the ability to work through multiple tasks simultaneously under time constraints.
  • Excellent communication, customer service skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record is required to travel to multiple locations.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including holidays, evenings, and weekends, with regular and timely attendance in accordance with the assigned work schedule.

Work Environment:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the key functions of this job. Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Work is performed in various environments with extensive team member contact and frequent interruptions.
  • Primary function requires sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in varying settings; to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time; to occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, twist, lift, carry, push and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight.
  • Verbally communicate to exchange information.

What Goodwill NCW employees say

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