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Retail Associate Jobs in Gardner, MA (NOW HIRING)

Optometric Assistant

Leominster, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $26.63/hr

In partnership with the retail associates, schedule appointments and manage exam books according to Company guidelines including contacting no shows and cancellations. Maintain patient flow to allow ...

In partnership with the retail associates, schedule appointments and manage exam books according to Company guidelines including contacting no shows and cancellations. * Maintain patient flow to ...

Optometric Assistant

Leominster, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $26.63/hr

In partnership with the retail associates, schedule appointments and manage exam books according to Company guidelines including contacting no shows and cancellations. * Maintain patient flow to ...

Retail Sales Associate

Fitchburg, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Retail Sales Associate, you will support the manager in day to day operations. You will be cross-trained in all areas of the store, gaining valuable operations experience. Looking for growth ...

Retail Sales Associate

Lancaster, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Retail Sales Associate, you will support the manager in day to day operations. You will be cross-trained in all areas of the store, gaining valuable operations experience. Looking for growth ...

Retail Sales Associate

Westford, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Retail Sales Associate, you will support the manager in day to day operations. You will be cross-trained in all areas of the store, gaining valuable operations experience. Looking for growth ...

Retail Sales Associate

Gardner, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Retail Sales Associate, you will support the manager in day to day operations. You will be cross-trained in all areas of the store, gaining valuable operations experience. Looking for growth ...

Retail Sales Associate

Fitchburg, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Retail Sales Associate, you will support the manager in day to day operations. You will be cross-trained in all areas of the store, gaining valuable operations experience. Looking for growth ...

Retail Sales Associate

Milford, NH · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

As a Retail Sales Associate, you will support the manager in day to day operations. You will be cross-trained in all areas of the store, gaining valuable operations experience. Looking for growth ...

Optometric Assistant

Leominster, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $26.63/hr

In partnership with the retail associates, schedule appointments and manage exam books according to Company guidelines including contacting no shows and cancellations. * Maintain patient flow to ...

Retail Sales Associate

Pepperell, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Retail Sales Associate, you will support the manager in day to day operations. You will be cross-trained in all areas of the store, gaining valuable operations experience. Looking for growth ...

Retail Sales Associate

Leicester, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Retail Sales Associate, you will support the manager in day to day operations. You will be cross-trained in all areas of the store, gaining valuable operations experience. Looking for growth ...

Showing results 21-40

Retail Associate information

See Gardner, MA salary details

$11

$16

$19

How much do retail associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for retail associate in Gardner, MA is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $17.84 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.
More about Retail Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Retail jobs in Gardner, MA?

The most popular types of Retail jobs in Gardner, MA are:

What job categories do people searching Retail Associate jobs in Gardner, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Retail Associate jobs in Gardner, MA are:

What cities near Gardner, MA are hiring for Retail Associate jobs?

Cities near Gardner, MA with the most Retail Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Retail Associate job openings in Gardner, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,759 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Optometric Assistant

Visionworks of America

Leominster, MA • On-site

$17.75 - $26.63/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Visionworks rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 215 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant

The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily responsible for helping ensure a great patient experience by preparing the patient for onsite and/or remote examination, completing pre-exam diagnostic tests, and explaining each step of the process. The Clinical Specialist acts as a liaison between our patients and Optometrists and participates in the initial steps of a patient journey.

Pay Class: Part Time, 0 - 19 hours per week

Pay Rate: $17.75 - $26.63 per hour

Essential Responsibilities

Completing patient registration, gathering and submitting pertinent patient information including Medical History and Ocular Health data into EMR.

Assist onsite doctor with patient care and eye examinations. Clearly explain the preliminary testing process to patients, administer each preliminary test and accurately document the results in EMR.

For patients with remote appointments, the Clinical Specialist will be required to assist patients through the remote eye exam process including, but not limited to:

  • Pre-testing and specialty testing and accurately documenting results in EMR
  • Initiate remote technician and remote doctor video conferencing
  • Assist remote doctor and remote technician to complete additional testing required for a remote exam
  • After exam completion transition the patient to a retail associate, conveying the recommendations of the doctor to the retail associate.

Have a strong understanding of MVC plans and be able to articulate plan benefits to patients. Preauthorize insurance in accordance with standard operating procedures.

In partnership with the retail associates, schedule appointments and manage exam books according to Company guidelines including contacting no shows and cancellations.

Maintain patient flow to allow for doctor effectiveness. Answer patients' clinical questions in person and over the telephone. Triage ocular emergencies and schedule annual eye exams.

Maintain complete and accurate patient records according to Company standards. Instruct patients on the insertion, removal, cleaning, care, and proper handling of their contact lenses. Place diagnostic contact lens orders for patients and stock. Notify patients when their contact lenses are available for dispensing. Have a working knowledge of contact lens brands and parameters. Accurately pull contact lens trials when requested by the doctor.

Ensure a clean and healthy environment for our patients by maintaining doctor equipment and clinical supplies as well as ensuring equipment is covered nightly. Participate in specialized training of all responsibilities and complete required clinical certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include traveling to other locations.

Education/Experience

One (1) year of related experience

Optical or Healthcare background preferred

Medical office/business professionalism required

HS diploma, GED or equivalent related job experience

Training provided

Behavioral Characteristics

Patient advocate

Excellent customer service skills

Ability to initiate immediate interaction, coordination, and collaboration with patients and team members

Very detail orientated and well organized

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with other associates and patients

Work under stress with interruptions and deadlines

Energetic and self-motivated

Team player

Excelling problem solving ability

Ability to multi-task

Exhibit empathy in all interactions

Ability to read, analyze and interpret insurance forms

Follow procedures and instructions

Read English

Operate and enter data into electronic software platforms efficiently and accurately

Essential Responsibilities Related to Physical Demands/Work Environment

Work changing schedules to meet business demands to include travel between stores

Work inside store location

Use computers, electronics tablets, and pre-testing instruments effectively

Reach above shoulder continuously

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodates may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the associate is required to sit, stand, use hands and fingers to handle, feel, pick or pinch, and talk or hear most of the time. The associate is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The associate must frequently lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. The noise level in this location is moderate (use of computers, printers, and machines).

HIPAA & Security Requirements

All Associates must comply with the Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) as it pertains to disclosures of protected health information (PHI) as described in the Notice of Privacy Practices and HIPAA Privacy Policies and Procedures. As a component of job roles and responsibilities, Associates may have access to covered information, cardholder data or other confidential customer information which must be protected at all times. As a result, Associates must explicitly adhere to all data security guidelines established within the Company's Privacy & Security Training Program.

Visionworks is an equal opportunity employer, committed to the hiring, advancement, and fair treatment of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, ethnicity, disability or veteran status, or any other protected status designated by federal, state, or local law.

The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria considered necessary to perform the job successfully. As required by changing business needs, complete additional essential responsibilities as identified and assigned.

Union Position Compensation: Position provides competitive pay and benefits. Specific terms are set forth in the Company's collective bargaining agreement with a minimum pay rate of $17.75 per hour plus incentive. Starting pay may vary based on experience to a maximum of $ 26.63 per hour. Incentive pay, wage upgrades, and overtime opportunities also available.


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