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Goodwill Jobs in Portage, IN (NOW HIRING)

Baler - Gary - FT

Gary, IN · On-site

$13.50/hr

In addition, embodies the Goodwill Mission to: "Empower people to achieve their most abundant life" and upholds the Company Core Values of: Relentless Pursuit of Excellence, Customer-First Mindset ...

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Goodwill information

See Portage, IN salary details

$39.9K

$79K

$112.8K

How much do goodwill jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for goodwill in Portage, IN is $79,006.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,500.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Goodwill employee 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 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 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 Portage, IN?

The most popular types of Goodwill jobs in Portage, IN are:

What job categories do people searching Goodwill jobs in Portage, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Goodwill jobs in Portage, IN are:

What cities near Portage, IN are hiring for Goodwill jobs?

Cities near Portage, IN with the most Goodwill job openings:

Infographic showing various Goodwill job openings in Portage, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,006 per year, or $38 per hour.

Sales Production Associate - Gary - FT

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES GROUP

Gary, IN • On-site

$13/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Objective:

To provide exceptional customer service to all Goodwill customers while helping to maintain the cleanliness of the Salvage Outlet sales floor and present a positive image of Goodwill to the community. Contribute to the overall smooth operation of a fast-paced retail environment. This position reports to the Salvage Outlet Manager who evaluates performance annually.

In addition, embodies the Goodwill Mission to: "Empower people to achieve their most abundant life" and upholds the Company Core Values of: Relentless Pursuit of Excellence, Customer-First Mindset, Humble Confidence, Passion for Mission, and Do the Right Thing.

Essential Job Functions:
  • Greet customers warmly, provide excellent customer service, unload donations efficiently, and address customer inquiries promptly to ensure a positive shopping experience.
  • Process customer purchases accurately using the POS system, handle cash, credit, and debit transactions accurately, monitor cash drawer for discrepancies, and assist with end-of-day cash balancing and deposits.
  • Uphold Kaizen standards by continuously seeking ways to improve efficiency, organization, and workflow.
  • Work collaboratively with team members and supervisors to support store operations, adapt to changing priorities, and contribute to a positive, team-oriented work environment.
  • Monitor the store for shoplifting, ticket switching, and unauthorized access to restricted areas.
  • Safely transport tables and materials to and from the sales floor in a timely manner.
  • Sort, prepare, and process salvage materials from various storage units (gaylords, poly carts, tables, and cages) for shipment and warehousing.
  • Uphold cleanliness and housekeeping standards in both warehouse and sales areas.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Required Education and Skills:
  • Excellent customer service skills with the ability to engage positively with donors, express gratitude, and create a welcoming experience.
  • Friendly and approachable demeanor, demonstrating patience and professionalism in all interactions.
  • Strong attention to detail when sorting, inspecting, and pricing donated items to ensure quality, proper categorization, and compliance with store guidelines.
  • Ability to quickly learn and apply donation policies, including identifying acceptable and non-acceptable items.
  • Basic understanding of safety protocols, including proper lifting techniques, hazard awareness, and workplace safety procedures to prevent injuries and ensure a secure environment.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced setting while maintaining accuracy and organization.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
Qualifications:
  • Authorized to work in the United States.
  • Flexible availability.
  • Able to frequently bend, twist, reach above shoulder level, push and pull, crouch or stoop, kneel, repetitively use feet, and use head and neck in a twisting or static motion and to look up and/or down, and lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to safely operate material handling equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and light industrial machinery.