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Hardware Associate Jobs in McHenry, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

Sales Associate

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Sales Associate Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Travel ... Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn. * Promote Ace Rewards and ...

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

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 ...

Retail Management

Lindenhurst, IL · On-site

$16 - $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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Retail Cashier

Libertyville, 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 ...

Retail Cashier

Waukegan, 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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hardware Associate information

See McHenry, IL salary details

$26.6K

$139K

$305.6K

How much do hardware associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for hardware associate in McHenry, IL is $138,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $209,200.00 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 McHenry, IL are hiring for Hardware Associate jobs?

Cities near McHenry, IL with the most Hardware Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Hardware Associate job openings in McHenry, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,999 per year, or $66.8 per hour.

Sales Associate

Libertyville, IL • On-site


Ace Hardware
Retail • 1 - 5K employees

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,491 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 51 rated home improvement retailers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Sales Associate

Reports To: Store Manager, Assistant Manager

Pending FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Travel: Occasional travel may be needed

Summary

Upholds the Core Values as set forth by Laskowski Ace Hardware. Primary responsibility for all positions is to Amaze Every Customer Every Time. The Sales Associates are responsible for engaging with customers, determining their needs and ensure those needs are met. Helping in the aisle is just the beginning! As an Ace team member, we embrace and appreciate gratitude, integrity and humility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential duties and responsibilities will include the following. Other

tasks may be requested by management.

  • Greet and offer assistance to customers as soon as you encounter them.
  • Always be polite and attentive to customers.Make eye contact and smile. Do not avoid customers.
  • Assist customers with finding products in assigned departments, or storewide, and provide needed advice or information. Inform managers of products customers are asking for that we do not carry.
  • Watch for shoplifters and act, in line with company policy, that will discourage shoplifting. Excellent customer service and interaction prevents shoplifting.
  • Provide the best possible experience for Every Customer, Every Time by being helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly.
  • Always wear your radio and headset to effectively communicate with other associates or management. Must have on your name tag, clean vest or Ace labeled attire at all times.
  • Solve problems and propose solutions to customers.
  • Maintain awareness of weekly and monthly sales/advertisements to inform customers about special sales.
  • Make price changes on merchandise according to price change sheets designated by Management team.
  • Remove sale prices and promotional displays, etc and post current promotional signage.
  • Assist customers with the handling of large or heavy items as well as outdoor carryout orders.
  • Screen repair, cut pipe, glass, shades, make keys, filling propane, mixing paint etc. may be required.
  • Assist customers with complaints unless they require a manager.
  • Review and follow company policies and procedures.
  • Cooperate with others and work well as part of a retail team.
  • Attend store meetings, training sessions, etc. arranged by the company.
  • Provide and accept constructive suggestions and instructions.
  • Fronting, stocking, and merchandising products.
  • Lift, move and handle boxes of merchandise/fixtures throughout the store.
  • Help maintain a clean and safe work environment.
  • Knowledge of retail hardware products along with a willingness to learn.
  • Promote Ace Rewards and Lurie Children's Hospital campaigns.
  • Grow and support our business customer partnerships.
  • Help unload incoming trucks and put away merchandise (as arranged by management).
  • Maintain your assigned department: Keep clean, organized and fully stocked.
  • Routinely verify inventory accuracy and assist in making necessary corrections and let management know right away of any discrepancies.

Required Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

Customer satisfaction-oriented

Attention to detail

Solid team player with excellent interpersonal skills with a strong willingness to learn

Bilingual (Spanish) verbal and written communication skills a plus

At least 18 years old

Ability to lift at least 50lbs

Excellent problem-solving skills

Knowledge of company systems and procedures

Positive attitude

Pay & Perks

  • 401(k) Benefits
  • Ace Hardware Employee Perks
  • In-Store Discount
  • Access to PerkSpot - an online discount service! Discounts for food, restaurants, cell services, electronics, entertainment, books, toys and more from well-known and local retailers
  • Paid Time Off
  • Health, Dental and Vision Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Get your steps in daily

Work/Life

Balance

  • Shorter weekend and weekday hours compared to our competitors
  • Family-friendly environment
  • Schedule posted two weeks in advance, so you can plan ahead

Learn, Develop, & Grow with us

  • 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's home
  • Educational Tuition & Development Reimbursement

Ace Hardware is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

This means that we consider all applicants for employment and employees eligible for

employment without regard to race, marital status or civil union status,

gender, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, mental or

physical disability, sexual orientation and/or any other characteristic

protected by law.

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.

Education:{"credentialcategory":"high school","@type":"EducationalOccupationalCredential"}Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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


What Ace Hardware Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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