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Retail Associate Jobs in Columbus, NE (NOW HIRING)

Customer Service Associate I

Columbus, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

Customer Service Associate We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Customer Service Associate I

David City, NE · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Customer Service Associate We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Janitorial Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Mid-Shift, Closing Location Walmart Supercenter #774 818 E 23RD ST, COLUMBUS, NE, 68601, US Job Overview Janitorial associates ensure customers have a great first and last impression of our stores.

Customer Service Associate I

Columbus, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Customer Service Associate I

David City, NE · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Customer Service Associate I

Columbus, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Customer Service Associate I

Schuyler, NE · On-site

$13 - $18/hr

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Customer Service Associate I

Columbus, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Customer Service Associate I

Schuyler, NE · On-site

$13 - $18/hr

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

New

Customer Service Associate I

David City, NE · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Customer Service Associate I

Columbus, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience ... Previous customer service experience in retail, hotel, restaurant, grocery, or drug store ...

Part-Time Store Cashier

Columbus, NE · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Join Our Team as a Cashier / Retail Sales Associate Are You Ready to Take Your Career to the Next Level? Sapp Bros. is looking for passionate, people-oriented individuals to join our team! Whether ...

Showing results 41-60

Retail Associate information

See Columbus, NE salary details

$10

$15

$18

How much do retail associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for retail associate in Columbus, NE is $15.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $17.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a retail associate?

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 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 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.

What is the easiest retail associate job to get into?

Entry-level retail associate positions are generally the easiest to obtain, as they often require minimal prior experience and focus on basic customer service and stocking tasks. These jobs typically have straightforward application processes and may not require formal certifications, making them accessible for new job seekers.
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For Retail Associate jobs in Columbus, NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Retail Associate jobs in Columbus, NE are:

What cities near Columbus, NE are hiring for Retail Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbus, NE with the most Retail Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Retail Associate job openings in Columbus, NE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,138 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

School Bus Driver - Stromsburg

First Student

Stromsburg, NE • On-site

$21.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Transport students safely to and from school and activities, including supervision during boarding and unloading.

  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the bus and report mechanical issues.

  • Obey traffic laws and safety standards while communicating with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.


First Student rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

First Student

Based on 320 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.2

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.2 out of 10

Education support services average

Based on 2,884 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at First Student

  • 89%

    89% of students say it’s good

    of students say it’s good

  • 88%

    88% say they enjoy their job

    say they enjoy their job

  • 87%

    87% of parents and care-givers say it’s good

    of parents and care-givers say it’s good

Featured by First Student, based on 320 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - Stromsburg, NE

Sign-On Bonus: $500*

As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely back home in the afternoon. Additional hours for field trips and special event transportation may be available.

No experience is necessary to become a school bus driver! We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver.

School Bus Driver benefits:

  • Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications
  • Hourly Rate: $21.50 per hour
  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training provided!
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match.
  • Part-time, flexible schedule: Split shifts (AM/PM routes), weekdays only; No nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada!
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
  • Community Impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families.
  • Employee Discount Program: Discounts on various products and services.
  • Guaranteed Minimum Hours: Get paid for 20 hours per week at minimum.
  • Child Ride-Along Program: Perfect for working parents.
  • Safety or Attendance bonuses**
  • Commercial Learner's Permit Bonus***

Your day as a School Bus Driver will include:

  • Safely transport students to and from school and activities.
  • Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids.
  • Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).
  • Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
  • Obey all traffic laws and company safety standards.
  • Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.
  • Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

School Bus Driver Jobs are Perfect For:

  • Retirees looking for supplemental income
  • Stay-at-home parents seeking daytime work
  • Veterans transitioning into civilian roles
  • Anyone seeking a second career or flexible job
  • People who enjoy working with children

You might be a good fit as a School Bus Driver if you:

  • Are at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver's license for at least 3 years
  • Are looking for a part-time schedule and summers off
  • Enjoy working with students

Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

Great School Bus Drivers often bring skills such as:

  • Valid Class B License
  • History driving with ride share companies or taxi services
  • Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.

Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First Student! Make an impact in your community while enjoying flexible schedules, great pay, and unmatched support.

*Sign-on bonus conditions apply. See location for details. Bonus offer is effective 01/01/26 - 11/31/26.

**Safety and/or Attendance bonus conditions apply. See location for details. Bonus offer is effective 01/01/26 - 11/31/26.

***Commercial Learner's Permit Bonus conditions apply. See location for details.

Language Requirement
This role requires English proficiency. Federal, state, and local requirements, including U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, require training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications be conducted in English.


First for a reason:

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more than 5 million students and passengers to and from their destinations each day! Our family of brands include Transco, Total Transportation, Maggies Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation; they create and implement the most advanced training and technology the transportation industry has to offer.


In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are considered safety-sensitive and are therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing, including cannabis.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug-free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law. Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance Poster is at this link or upon request https://www.phila.gov/media/20210423160847/Fair-Chance-Hiring-law-poster.pdf.

Company Description

About us
An industry leader famous for our yellow school buses and service and safety excellence, we’ve provided student transportation services to schools for over 100 years. Continually investing in the services of the future, we’re proud to be part of FirstGroup America – the largest provider of safe, reliable and sustainable surface passenger transportation services in North America.

Industry leader
We safely operate more than one third of all contracted school buses in North America.
Together our 50,000 school buses travel nearly 600 million miles per year — the equivalent of 1,200 round trips to the moon.
We operate in around 550 locations throughout 38 U.S. states and 8 Canadian provinces.

Innovation
We were the first school bus company to utilize global positioning systems (GPS), so at any one time we know where all of our buses are and how fast they’re travelling.
Passionate about safety, we’ve installed Safety Crossing Gates on the front of all of our school buses and use the Child Check-MateTM electronic reminder system to make sure no sleeping children remain inside a bus at the end of each route.

Awards & recognition
We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety Council two years in a row.
Dedicated to safety, FirstGroup received the National Safety Council’s (NSC) Green Cross for Safety Medal - the highest award for safety in North America.

Teamwork and trust
It takes a diverse team of skilled professionals to provide a safe, effective and efficient student transportation system. From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician mechanics, the work we do every day makes a big impact on the daily lives of students, parents, local communities and school district partners.

We’re very proud of our elite team of over 55,000 dedicated, caring and diverse professionals. And they are the #1 reason we’re trusted by over 1,400 school districts - more than any other provider. Everybody here plays their part in creating a positive school bus experience.

Our culture
We live and breathe our vision and values. They are embedded in our culture and drive our commitment to our customers and communities. Our culture fosters growth and promotes respect, reliability, responsibility and safety. And we recruit people who share these values and will work together to build strong and trusting partnerships in the communities we serve.

Safety – Although our safety record is twice as safe as the industry average, we continually seek out opportunities to enhance our operational and safety initiatives.
Learning – Through our learning culture that spans over 550 locations, we receive and share insight from our people to enhance our service now and in the future.
Making a difference - By doing our job well, we make a positive impact on many lives – including the millions of students who travel with us every school day.
Careers for all – We’re an Equal Opportunity Employer and an Employer of Choice.
By consistently encouraging and supporting an open dialogue with our people and partners, we’re able to share new ideas and develop new ways to meet the needs of our customers and passengers. At First Student, you’ll feel empowered to serve your community. So join the team and start to make a difference.


Working at First Student

Perks for frontline workers

From First Student, via Breakroom

  • Competitive pay and paid training

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and paid time off

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage options

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match

  • Career advancement opportunities, including operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), including counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues

  • Community impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families

About First Student, in their own words

From First Student

At First Student, we are a team of 66,800 employees dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient student transportation. As the leading student transportation provider in North America, we operate over 530+ locations across the U.S. and Canada. Our family of brands includes Transco, Total Transportation, Maggie’s Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation, helping create and implement the advanced training, technology, and transportation solutions our industry has to offer. Our company’s history is rooted in industry innovation, operational excellence, and a shared commitment to putting students first.

Company values

From First Student

• Focus on safety: Safety is at the heart of everything we do

• Foster teamwork: Work together, act with integrity, respect each other, and champion diversity and inclusion

• Care for our students: Ensure our vehicles are welcoming and trusted places where students feel comfortable and secure

• Surpass customer expectations: Go the extra mile to deliver an extraordinary experience for our customers and communities

• Set the highest standards: Continually seek a better way to do things with innovation, sustainable practices, financial discipline, commercial excellence, and operational excellence


What First Student employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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