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Hardware Associate Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Sales Associate

Webster City, IA

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Previous hardware experience is a plus but not a requirement as we provide extensive training. At Ace Hardware, we're independently owned and operated so helping our community is our number one ...

Sales Associate

Webster City, IA

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Previous hardware experience is a plus but not a requirement as we provide extensive training. At Ace Hardware, we're independently owned and operated so helping our community is our number one ...

Sales Associate

Webster City, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Previous hardware experience is a plus but not a requirement as we provide extensive training. At Ace Hardware, we're independently owned and operated so helping our community is our number one ...

Sales Associate

Webster City, IA

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Previous hardware experience is a plus but not a requirement as we provide extensive training. At Ace Hardware, we're independently owned and operated so helping our community is our number one ...

Sales Associate

Webster City, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Previous hardware experience is a plus but not a requirement as we provide extensive training. At Ace Hardware, we're independently owned and operated so helping our community is our number one ...

... associates in their department as well as other departments. Specific store departments may include Building Materials, Décor, Electrical, Flooring, Garden, Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber ...

... other associates in their department as well as other departments. Specific store departments may include Building Materials, Decor, Electrical, Flooring, Garden, Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber ...

Department Supervisor

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $21.50/hr

... Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber, Millwork, Paint, Plumbing, Pro Account Sales, Tool Rental, Front End, Freight, Receiving, Associate Support, Special Services, and Merchandising Execution or a ...

Department Supervisor

Ankeny, IA

$19.25 - $21.50/hr

... Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber, Millwork, Paint, Plumbing, Pro Account Sales, Tool Rental, Front End, Freight, Receiving, Associate Support, Special Services, and Merchandising Execution or a ...

Shop Associate

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

For over 75 years, BMD has supplied lumber yards, dealers, home centers, and hardware stores with top-quality building products. As an employee-owned distributor, BMD excels in customer service and ...

Shop Associate

Ankeny, IA

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

For over 75 years, BMD has supplied lumber yards, dealers, home centers, and hardware stores with top-quality building products. As an employee-owned distributor, BMD excels in customer service and ...

Shop Associate

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

For over 75 years, BMD has supplied lumber yards, dealers, home centers, and hardware stores with top-quality building products. As an employee-owned distributor, BMD excels in customer service and ...

Shop Associate

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

For over 75 years, BMD has supplied lumber yards, dealers, home centers, and hardware stores with top-quality building products. As an employee-owned distributor, BMD excels in customer service and ...

Field Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Verify proper operation of all hardware and software components prior to customer handoff ... Associate degree in Farm Equipment & Diesel Technology, Mechanized Agriculture, Electronics ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hardware Associate information

See Ames, IA salary details

$26.4K

$138.1K

$303.7K

How much do hardware associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for hardware associate in Ames, IA is $138,129.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $207,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Hardware Associate, you need basic knowledge of hardware products, inventory management, and customer service, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory tracking software, and product stocking tools is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and a helpful attitude are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient operations, accurate inventory, and excellent customer experiences in retail hardware environments.

What is a hardware associate?

Hardware Associates are retail employees who specialize in assisting customers with hardware products and home improvement supplies. They help customers locate items, provide product information, and advise on the best tools or materials for specific projects. Additionally, Hardware Associates may be responsible for stocking shelves, maintaining store displays, and ensuring the sales floor is organized. Their role is vital in providing excellent customer service and supporting the overall operations of hardware or home improvement stores.

What is the difference between Hardware Associate vs Hardware Technician?

AspectHardware AssociateHardware Technician
Required CertificationsCompTIA A+, vendor-specific certificationsCompTIA A+, specialized hardware certifications
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, warehouses, customer support centersRepair shops, data centers, onsite client locations
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics retailers, IT support companiesIT service providers, hardware repair companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level hardware rolesTechnical hardware repair and troubleshooting

Hardware Associates typically focus on customer support, stocking, and basic hardware setup, often in retail or support environments. Hardware Technicians perform more in-depth repairs, troubleshooting, and hardware maintenance, usually in repair shops or data centers. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in complexity and work setting.

What are some typical challenges hardware associates face when assisting customers in a retail hardware environment?

Hardware Associates often encounter challenges such as helping customers find the right products for specific projects, especially when customers are unfamiliar with technical terms or materials. They must stay knowledgeable about a wide range of products, keep up with inventory changes, and sometimes troubleshoot basic DIY questions on the spot. Effective communication and patience are essential, as the role requires explaining complex information in simple terms and ensuring customers leave with the correct items for their needs.

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Hardware Associate jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Hardware Associate job openings:

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

We are seeking outgoing, friendly, and helpful team members to welcome and assist customers. Previous hardware experience is a plus but not a requirement as we provide extensive training.

At Ace Hardware, we're independently owned and operated so helping our community is our number one priority. Make an impact in the community by helping your neighbors with their projects while working in a fast-paced and fun environment. Our mission is to go the extra mile for our customers and build a team that has the same attitude!

Ace Hardware is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free environment. Ace goes beyond hardware: build a future, a purpose, and a community with us.

Work/life balance:

This position is with a team that respects your life outside of work. We believe in earning your trust through clear communication. We schedule two weeks in advance, working with you so you can plan.

Learn and grow with us:

  • Are you a hardware hero? Bring your knowledge and we'll teach you something new.
  • Have a helpful attitude? We'll train you on hardware know-how that builds life skills.
  • We train you from day one and the opportunities don't stop there.

What to expect:

  • You'll work directly with customers welcoming them and helping them find everything necessary to complete their project in one trip.
  • Like working in a fast-paced and fun environment? We are high energy so time will fly.
  • You'll be on your feet for most of your shift (6 to 8 hours).
  • You must lift up to 50 lbs.

Pay, Benefits, and Perks:

  • Paid time off
  • Health Insurance or discount card for medical, dental, vision, and prescriptions
  • 401K
  • Employee discounts on product
  • Perkspot discounts on services and products
  • Free uniform shirts, vests, and more


Notice to Applicant about this Employer: You are applying for a job with an independently owned and operated cooperative member of Ace Hardware Corporation, who owns and operates this Ace Hardware retail store location. Ace Hardware Corporation is not the employer for this position. The independent store owner alone is responsible for and independently makes all decisions concerning employment related matters, including hiring, firing, discipline, supervision, staffing and scheduling. Ace Hardware Corporation will not receive a copy of any applications submitted for this position, does not control interviews and/or hiring decisions, and has no control over or responsibility for the employment policies and practices of the independent store owner. If hired, the independent store owner will be your only employer. The Ace Hardware trademarks, logos and designs are owned by Ace Hardware Corporation and used by independent store owners under a license from Ace Hardware Corporation