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Retail Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

MidTown Athletic Club

Retail Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

The Position Our Retail Associates serve as consultants to members and guests. Whether looking for a last minute pair of yoga pants, a tennis racket or athletic shoes, our clientele enjoy ...

Midtown Athletic Club

Retail Associate

Chicago, IL

$15.75 - $18/hr

Midtown is searching for Retail Associates to assist our members and customers in our shops. The Position OurRetail Associates serve as consultants to members and guests.Whether looking for a last ...

TCA Professional Services

Retail Associate

Chicago, IL

$15.75 - $18/hr

Midtown is searching for Retail Associates to assist our members and customers in our shops. The Position OurRetail Associates serve as consultants to members and guests.Whether looking for a last ...

The Cannabist Company

Retail Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Retail Associates assist every patient to ensure the patient is receiving the correct medication that will best benefit the patient's specific illness and medical condition. In adult-use markets ...

The Cannabist Company

Retail Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Retail Associates assist every patient to ensure the patient is receiving the correct medication that will best benefit the patient's specific illness and medical condition. In adult-use markets ...

Ross Stores

Retail Associate

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $17/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores, Inc

Retail Associate

Broadview, IL

$15 - $17.25/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores, Inc

Retail Associate

Chicago, IL

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores

Retail Associate

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores

Retail Associate

Calumet City, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores, Inc

Retail Associate

Palatine, IL

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores

Retail Associate

Aurora, IL · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores, Inc

Retail Associate

Hanover Park, IL

$15 - $17.25/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores

Retail Associate

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores

Retail Associate

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores

Retail Associate

Niles, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores, Inc

Retail Associate

Evanston, IL

$14.50 - $16.75/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores, Inc

Retail Associate

Matteson, IL

$15 - $17.25/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores, Inc

Retail Associate

Cicero, IL

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Ross Stores

Retail Associate

Norridge, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Associate is responsible for ensuring our Customers have a positive shopping experience. The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

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All JobsRetail Associate JobsRetail Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Retail Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$16

$18

How much do retail associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for retail associate in Chicago, IL is $16.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $17.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A retail associate typically does not earn $10,000 a month without additional responsibilities or experience. High earnings at this level usually require advanced roles, management positions, or specialized skills; most retail associates earn significantly less. Achieving such income often involves career advancement, sales commissions, or owning a business rather than entry-level retail work.

What is the difference between Retail Associate vs Cashier?

AspectRetail AssociateCashier
Primary RoleAssisting customers, stocking shelves, and maintaining store displaysProcessing transactions and handling payments at checkout
Required SkillsCustomer service, product knowledge, communicationCash handling, basic math, customer service
Work EnvironmentSales floor, retail storeCheckout counters, retail store
Common CertificationsNone typically requiredCash handling certification optional

While both roles are essential in retail, a Retail Associate has broader responsibilities including customer assistance and stock management, whereas a Cashier primarily focuses on transaction processing. Retail Associates often engage with customers throughout the store, while Cashiers work mainly at the checkout area. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position based on their skills and interests.

Is Associate the lowest position?

In retail, the title 'Retail Associate' is often an entry-level position, but it is not always the lowest. Some companies have additional entry roles such as Cashier or Stock Clerk, and advancement opportunities may include roles like Supervisor or Manager. The specific hierarchy varies by employer and store structure.

What are Retail Associates?

Retail Associates are employees who work in retail stores to assist customers, manage merchandise, and ensure a positive shopping experience. Their responsibilities may include greeting customers, answering questions, stocking shelves, operating cash registers, and maintaining store cleanliness. Retail Associates play a key role in providing customer service and supporting the overall operations of the store. They often work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate store needs. Strong communication skills and a friendly attitude are important for success in this role.

What is the role of a retail associate?

A retail associate is responsible for assisting customers, operating cash registers, stocking shelves, and maintaining the store's appearance. They provide customer service, process transactions, and ensure a positive shopping experience, often working in a fast-paced retail environment. Strong communication skills and basic knowledge of sales techniques are important for this role.

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

To thrive as a Retail Associate, you need strong customer service skills, basic math abilities, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management tools, and mobile payment technologies is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude help you engage customers and handle challenging situations effectively. These skills ensure a smooth shopping experience, drive sales, and contribute to overall store success.

What are some common challenges Retail Associates face during busy seasons, and how can they effectively manage them?

During busy seasons, Retail Associates often face high customer volumes, increased restocking demands, and frequent multitasking. Managing these challenges involves maintaining a positive attitude, staying organized, and communicating clearly with both team members and customers. Effective Associates prioritize tasks, use downtime wisely to prepare for rush periods, and aren't afraid to ask for help when needed. Building strong teamwork and staying flexible are key to ensuring smooth operations during peak times.

What jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Retail associates typically do not earn $5,000 a week; high earnings at this level usually require specialized skills, experience, or management roles. Jobs such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or certain sales positions in industries like technology or finance can reach or exceed this income without a degree, often relying on commissions, performance, or entrepreneurial efforts.
More about Retail Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Retail jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Retail jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Retail Associate jobs in Chicago, IL? For Retail Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Retail Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Retail Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Retail Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Retail Associate job openings:
Retail Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Retail Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,798 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Retail Associate

Retail Associate

MidTown Athletic Club

Chicago, IL • On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Midtown is searching for Retail Associates to assist our members and customers in our shops.
The Position
Our Retail Associates serve as consultants to members and guests. Whether looking for a last minute pair of yoga pants, a tennis racket or athletic shoes, our clientele enjoy knowledgeable and enthusiastic service. Retail Associates play an important role at Midtown, as they build relationships with members and provide a delightful retail experience in a boutique environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Greet customers, respond to questions, improve engagement with merchandise, and provide outstanding customer service
  • Operate cash registers, manage financial transactions, and balance drawers
  • Direct customers to merchandise within the store
  • Ensure that retail space stays uncluttered
  • Introduce promotions and opportunities to customers

Requirements:
  • Previous retail experience preferred
  • Ability to engage with a wide variety of people

This job description is intended to describe the general requirements for the position. It is not a complete statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. Other duties not listed here may be assigned as necessary to ensure the proper operations of the department.
MIDTOWN is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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