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Hardware Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ace Hardware

Assistant Store Manager

Geneva, IL · On-site

Leaders must delegate, train, and monitor the progress of all associates and all facets of the hardware store. The primary responsibilities of in-store management are to manage the sales, expenses ...

Ace Hardware

Cashier - Nights and Weekends

Wauconda, IL

$13 - $15/hr

Strong training program that will empower each associate, all while growing their knowledge of the Hardware Industry! * Lifelong skills in "Do It Yourself" projects for your home or your family ...

Posted today

Ace Hardware

Retail Cashier

Grayslake, IL

$13 - $15/hr

Strong training program that will empower each associate, all while growing their knowledge of the Hardware Industry! * Lifelong skills in "Do It Yourself" projects for your home or your family ...

Ace Hardware

Retail Cashier

Grayslake, IL · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Strong training program that will empower each associate, all while growing their knowledge of the Hardware Industry! * Lifelong skills in "Do It Yourself" projects for your home or your family ...

Ace Hardware

Retail Management

Grayslake, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... associate, all while growing their knowledge of the Hardware Industry! -Lifelong skills in "Do It Yourself" projects for your home or your family's home -Educational Tuition & Development ...

Ace Hardware

Retail Management

Grayslake, IL

$15 - $18/hr

... associate, all while growing their knowledge of the Hardware Industry! -Lifelong skills in "Do It Yourself" projects for your home or your family's home -Educational Tuition & Development ...

Ziegler's Ace

Sales Associate/Cashier - Part Time

Elgin, IL · On-site

$15 - $15.60/hr

Join Our Team as a Sales Associate/Cashier at Ziegler's Ace Hardware! Are you passionate about providing an AMAZING Customer Experience? Do you have a friendly and outgoing demeanor? Are you ready to ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHardware Associate JobsHardware Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Hardware Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.8K

$145.5K

$319.9K

How much do hardware associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for hardware associate in Chicago, IL is $145,466.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $218,900.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Hardware jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Hardware jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Hardware Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Hardware Associate job openings:
Hardware Associate jobs near you

Entry level Management position

Ace Hardware

Homewood, IL

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Ace Hardware Corporation rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,478 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 51 rated home improvement retailers

Job description

Retail leadership experience may qualify you for this exciting opportunity. Our friendly atmosphere,

competitive wages, and commitment to excellence make Ace Hardware the Place for a fulfilling

career.

Leaders must delegate, train, and monitor the progress of all associates and all facets of the hardware

store. The primary responsibilities of in-store management are to manage the sales, expenses, profits,

assets, and team members' personal development to ensure customers are receiving the highest level of

customer service.

The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of previous retail management experience. We are looking

for qualified individuals for roles such as shift manager, assistant manager, and store manager. Ace Hardware offers a career path and opportunity to grow and advance.

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.

At Ace Hardware you have the opportunity to grow with the company in a fun and active work

environment.

Ability to lift 40 pounds consistently, stand, and walk for up to 8 hours during shift.

Click through and start your journey with us now!

We are your local hardware store and we are a part of your community. Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently owned and operated by local entrepreneurs. These hard working men and women are part of the fabric of your community. They are small business owners who are local and loyal...just like it ought to be. While others have become large and impersonal, at Ace, we've remained small and very personal. That's why we say a visit to Ace, is like a visit to your neighbor.

What Ace Hardware Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Ace Hardware logo

About Ace Hardware

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ace Hardware is a renowned company in the retail sector, headquartered in Oak Brook, IL, US. Dating back to its foundation in 1924 by a group of businessmen, the company has grown from a single store in Chicago to a global hardware cooperative consisting of more than 5,000 stores in over 60 countries. It operates in the home improvement sector and specializes in hardware, home goods, local niche services, and select specialty retailers. As prevalent in its motto "The Helpful Place", Ace Hardware's mission is to provide customers with high-quality hardware products while delivering exemplary customer service.

Industry

Retail, hardware, plumbing and hvac wholesalers and construction materials wholesalers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Oak Brook, IL, US

View All Ace Hardware Jobs