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Returns Associate Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Customer Service Associate The Customer Service Associate consults with customers on their car ... Prepare all rental and return documents accurately and completely. * Qualify each customer using ...

Warehouse Associate

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Warehouse Associate Ultimate Image Printing is a fast-paced, rapidly growing company specializing ... Complete and maintain accurate paperwork for receiving, shipping, and returns. * Assist with ...

Home Delivery Associate

Ontario, CA

$17.25 - $20/hr

As Home Delivery Associate, you will represent the RH brand by delivering operational excellence ... Wrap, prepare, process, and load returns * Verify that all items are correct in their assigned ...

Home Delivery Associate

Ontario, CA · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

As Home Delivery Associate, you will represent the RH brand by delivering operational excellence ... Wrap, prepare, process, and load returns * Verify that all items are correct in their assigned ...

Home Delivery Associate

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20/hr

As Home Delivery Associate, you will represent the RH brand by delivering operational excellence ... Wrap, prepare, process, and load returns * Verify that all items are correct in their assigned ...

Tax Senior Associate

Brea, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Senior Associates in tax will assist in preparation and review of tax returns, as well as provide client service, relationship management and consulting services. If you want to work with people who ...

Customer Service Associate The part time Customer Service Associate consults with customers on ... Prepare all rental and return documents accurately and completely. * Qualify each customer using ...

Supply Associate

Redlands, CA · On-site

$24.50/hr

Return incorrect or defective parts to vendors promptly * Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and ... Completion of Supply Associate Workstation Certifications and adherence to competency standards

Tax Senior Associate

Brea, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Senior Associates in tax will assist in preparation and review of tax returns, as well as provide client service, relationship management and consulting services. If you want to work with people who ...

Showing results 21-40

Returns Associate information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$18

$22

How much do returns associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for returns associate in Riverside, CA is $18.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $19.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a returns associate?

Returns Associates are retail or warehouse employees responsible for handling returned merchandise. They process items that customers bring back, inspect them for quality and damage, update inventory systems, and ensure items are restocked, disposed of, or sent for repair as needed. Returns Associates often interact with customers to resolve concerns, enforce return policies, and help ensure a smooth returns process. Their role is vital for maintaining customer satisfaction and efficient inventory management.

What challenges does a returns associate face when processing returned items, and how can they manage them?

Returns Associates often deal with a high volume of returned products, each requiring careful inspection and documentation to determine the next steps. Common challenges include identifying items that do not meet return criteria, handling irate customers, and ensuring accuracy in record-keeping. To manage these challenges effectively, strong attention to detail, clear communication, and familiarity with company return policies are essential. Collaboration with warehouse staff and customer service teams is also crucial to streamline the process and maintain a positive customer experience.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a returns associate?

To thrive as a Returns Associate, you need strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and familiarity with inventory management, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency in warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and basic computer software is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and a customer-focused attitude are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that returned products are processed efficiently and accurately, maintaining inventory integrity and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Returns Associate vs Customer Service Representative?

Returns AssociateCustomer Service Representative
Handles product returns, exchanges, and refunds at retail or warehouse locationsProvides general customer support, answers inquiries, and resolves issues across various channels
Requires knowledge of return policies, inventory management, and POS systemsRequires communication skills, problem-solving, and product knowledge
Work environment often includes retail stores or warehousesWork environment includes call centers, retail stores, or online support
Commonly employed in retail, e-commerce, and logistics industriesEmployed across multiple industries including retail, telecom, and service sectors

While both roles involve customer interaction, a Returns Associate specializes in processing product returns and managing inventory, often within retail or warehouse settings. A Customer Service Representative handles a broader range of customer inquiries and support tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Returns jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Returns jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Returns Associate jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Returns Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Returns Associate job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,560 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Retail Sales Associate (Lake Forest, CA)

Staples

Lake Forest, CA • On-site

$16.90 - $17.15/hr

Other

Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Staples rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 630 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

427th of 732 rated retailers


Job description

Sales Associates provide exceptional customer service with our customers' needs in mind. You'll help customers find products, provide solutions, and handle returns or online pickups. You'll also be collaborative and inclusive in helping our customers while being part of a fun, team-oriented retail culture. Hiring immediately and training provided.
After applying, you may have the opportunity to schedule an in-person interview within minutes.
Get great perks.
  • Flexible part time hours, generous paid time off, weekly pay and career growth opportunities
  • Associate discounts on in-store and online merchandise, services and warranty plans
  • Discounts at hundreds of retailers, restaurants and more
  • 401(k) plan with a company match
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • And many more benefits
  • Compensation based on qualifications and experience

Help both your customers and your store win.
  • Multitask on cashier, sales, and merchandising responsibilities
  • Respond quickly and resourcefully to customer requests and concerns
  • Create a positive, inviting environment for customers
  • Understand and use basic selling skills to engage and present solutions
  • Handle returns and online pick-ups
  • Be flexible on responsibilities (e.g., cleaning, stocking shelves, other duties as assigned)

Essential skills and experience:
  • Able to work a flexible schedule based on the store's needs
  • Must be able to and want to engage with customers and understand their needs
  • Ability to collaborate and work cooperatively in a high paced and sometimes stressful environment
  • Manage conflict in a reasonable, nonconfrontational and cooperative manner
  • Ability to act with honesty and integrity regarding customer and business information
  • Ability to lift/move materials in the 10 - 50 pound range, climb ladders, stand and walk continuously
  • Preferred but not required: customer service or cashier experience in a retail environment

Staples does not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.

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