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Returns Associate Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

Warehouse Associate

Albany, OR · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Warehouse Associate The Warehouse Associate will fulfill and process orders, accept incoming ... Records, reports, and returns defective items. * Packages orders and prepares for shipment ...

Process layaways, returns, and exchanges * Perform other tasks as assigned by manager from time-to ... Part-time associates, based on hours worked, may be eligible for Burlington's benefits package ...

As a Hot Topic Sales Associate, you'll be a huge part of our success by providing the best customer ... Provide an amazing shopping experience that will encourage customers to return. They'll be ...

Sales Associate

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Hot Topic Sales Associate, you'll be a huge part of our success by providing the best customer ... Provide an amazing shopping experience that will encourage customers to return. They'll be ...

Sales Associate

Salem, OR · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

As a Hot Topic Sales Associate, you'll be a huge part of our success by providing the best customer ... Provide an amazing shopping experience that will encourage customers to return. They'll be ...

Sales Associate

Woodburn, OR

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Hot Topic Sales Associate, you'll be a huge part of our success by providing the best customer ... Provide an amazing shopping experience that will encourage customers to return. They'll be ...

Sales Associate

Salem, OR · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

As a Hot Topic Sales Associate, you'll be a huge part of our success by providing the best customer ... Provide an amazing shopping experience that will encourage customers to return. They'll be ...

Retail Associate

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

ABOUT THE POSITION With over 430 retail stores worldwide, our associates are essential to our ... Perform all required cash register transactions (e.g., sales, returns, exchanges, connecting ...

Retail Associate

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

ABOUT THE POSITION With over 430 retail stores worldwide, our associates are essential to our ... Perform all required cash register transactions (e.g., sales, returns, exchanges, connecting ...

Retail Associate

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

ABOUT THE POSITION With over 430 retail stores worldwide, our associates are essential to our ... Perform all required cash register transactions (e.g., sales, returns, exchanges, connecting ...

Retail Associate

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

ABOUT THE POSITION With over 430 retail stores worldwide, our associates are essential to our ... Perform all required cash register transactions (e.g., sales, returns, exchanges, connecting ...

Merchandise Associate

Albany, OR · On-site

$15.55 - $16.05/hr

Accurately rings customer purchases/returns and counts change back to customer according to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$15.50 - $16/hr

Accurately rings customer purchases/returns and counts change back to customer according to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$15.50 - $16/hr

Accurately rings customer purchases/returns and counts change back to customer according to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Warehouse Associate

Salem, OR · On-site

$20 - $20.50/hr

... returns, and more, leveraging asset-based, asset-light, and non-asset models. We are seeking a ... Associate in Salem, OR! Schedule: * 9:00PM-5:30AM * Thursday-Monday Direct hire. Full benefits ...

Merchandise Associate

Albany, OR · On-site

$15.55 - $16.05/hr

Accurately rings customer purchases/returns and counts change back to customer according to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

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Returns Associate information

See Salem, OR salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do returns associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for returns associate in Salem, OR is $17.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $18.37 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 cities near Salem, OR are hiring for Returns Associate jobs? Cities near Salem, OR with the most Returns Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Returns Associate job openings in Salem, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,183 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Warehouse Associate

M&D Services

Albany, OR • On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Warehouse Associate

The Warehouse Associate will fulfill and process orders, accept incoming shipments, and oversee the general organization of the warehouse.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Maintains an accurate running inventory.
  • Restocks supplies and inventory.
  • Accepts, verifies, inspects, and records all deliveries according to policy.
  • Records, reports, and returns defective items.
  • Packages orders and prepares for shipment according to policy.
  • Maintains the organization and cleanliness of the warehouse area.
  • Handles complaints related to shipments; notifies supervisor of any shipping or receiving issues.
  • Inventory control including:
  • Inspecting order accuracy before accepting vendor deliveries.
  • Perform quality checks on inventory.
  • Conduct cycle counts.
  • Report discrepancies to leadership.
  • Follow all Loss Prevention company policies.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Proficient with inventory control systems.
  • Thorough understanding of warehouse policies and procedures.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Excellent time management skills.
  • Prior forklift certification preferred.
  • Successful completion of pre-employment background and drug screening.
  • Fosters good coworker citizenship and contributes to a positive work environment.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

  • Ability to repeat motions.
  • Ability to bend, kneel, and squat.
  • Ability to lift arms above shoulder level.
  • Ability to climb ladders and stairs.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50lbs.
  • Shop environment with exposure to dirt, dust, and loud noise.
  • Warehouse environment with exposure to dirt, dust, and loud noise.

Note

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) of this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

M–F | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM