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Hardware Associate Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sales Associate

Hickory, NC

$12.50 - $17/hr

Sales Associate Department: Store Operations / Sales Floor Reports To: Store Manager / Assistant ... Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently ...

Sales Associate

Hickory, NC · On-site

$12.50 - $17/hr

Sales Associate Department: Store Operations / Sales Floor Reports To: Store Manager / Assistant ... Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently ...

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

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

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 ...

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree is a plus. * Minimum 1-3 ... Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently ...

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree is a plus. * Minimum 1-3 ... Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently ...

Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently ... Education:{"credentialcategory":"associate degree","@type":"EducationalOccupationalCredential ...

Sales Associate

Hickory, NC · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Sales Associate Department: Store Operations / Sales Floor Reports To: Store Manager / Assistant Store Manager Job Summary: The Sales Associate is responsible for providing exceptional customer ...

Support Associate - Chico's

Sharon, NC · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The Support Associate is responsible for supporting a customer and product-focused sales culture ... hardware, hangers, sign holders, etc. * Participates in pricing changes and markdowns. * Assists ...

Support Associate - Chico's

Sharon, NC · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The Support Associate is responsible for supporting a customer and product-focused sales culture ... hardware, hangers, sign holders, etc. * Participates in pricing changes and markdowns. * Assists ...

Support Associate - Chico's

Sharon, NC · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The Support Associate is responsible for supporting a customer and product-focused sales culture ... hardware, hangers, sign holders, etc. * Participates in pricing changes and markdowns. * Assists ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hardware Associate information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$24.2K

$126.4K

$278K

How much do hardware associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for hardware associate in Hickory, NC is $126,428.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,600.00 and $190,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Hardware Associate jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Hardware Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Hardware Associate job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,428 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Sales Associate

Ace Hardware

Hickory, NC

$12.50 - $17/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Ace Hardware Corporation rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,489 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 51 rated home improvement retailers


Job description

Job Title: Sales Associate

Department: Store Operations / Sales Floor

Reports To: Store Manager / Assistant Store Manager


Job Summary:

The Sales Associate is responsible for providing exceptional customer service and contributing to the overall success of the store. This

role includes assisting customers with product selection, maintaining a clean and organized sales floor, processing transactions, and promoting store promotions and loyalty programs. Sales Associates are expected to be friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic team players who are passionate about helping customers.


Key Responsibilities:

Greet customers warmly and offer assistance in finding products.

Provide knowledgeable and personalized product recommendations.

Keep plants organized, watered and priced.

Process transactions accurately using the POS system, including handling cash and credit card payments.

Promote in-store promotions, special events, and loyalty programs.

Assist with stocking, restocking, and live goods organization.

Support loss prevention efforts by monitoring for suspicious activity and reporting concerns.

Respond to customer inquiries and resolve complaints professionally.

Collaborate with team members to achieve sales goals and ensure a positive store environment.

Perform other duties as assigned by management.


Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Previous retail or customer service experience is a plus.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Friendly, helpful, and customer-focused attitude.

Basic math and computer skills.

Ability to stand, walk, lift, and move merchandise up to 40 lbs.


Work Schedule:

Part-time or full-time schedule based on store needs. Availability on mornings, weekends and holidays is required.


What We Offer:

Employee discounts

On-the-job training

Opportunities for growth and advancement

A supportive and team-oriented work environment

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