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Sales Associate Jobs in Laurel, NE (NOW HIRING)

OSNI Ponca LLC

Sales Associate

Crofton, NE · On-site

$15 - $22.80/hr

Sales Associate Position Number: Division: OSNI Department: Ponca Smoke Signals Reports To: Retail Manager Location: Crofton, NE Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-Exempt Salary: Grade 5 ($15.00-$22.80 ...

Dollar General

SALES ASSOCIATE in WAYNE, NE S02744

Wayne, NE · On-site

$12.75 - $17.50/hr

The Sales Associate acts as a point of contact for our customers. The duties of the Sales Associate include assisting customers in locating and purchasing merchandise, operating the cash register ...

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All JobsSales Associate JobsSales Associate Jobs in Laurel, NE

Sales Associate information

See Laurel, NE salary details

$8

$16

$30

How much do sales associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for sales associate in Laurel, NE is $16.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.31 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sales associate?

Sales Associates are retail professionals responsible for assisting customers, providing product information, and facilitating sales transactions in stores or other sales environments. They help customers find products, answer questions, and ensure a positive shopping experience. Sales Associates may also handle inventory, restock shelves, and process payments. Their goal is to meet sales targets while delivering excellent customer service. This role is essential in creating a welcoming atmosphere and fostering customer loyalty.

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

To thrive as a Sales Associate, you need strong product knowledge, customer service abilities, and basic math skills, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and sometimes CRM tools is common. Outstanding communication, active listening, and a friendly, persuasive demeanor are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for building customer relationships, meeting sales goals, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

What do sales associates do?

Sales associates work in the retail industry. They often greet customers as they enter the store and assist the customer in finding what they need. A sales associate is responsible for walking customers through the entire buying process and ensuring the customer leaves satisfied. Customers rely on sales associates for information on the store’s inventory, in-store item location, and accurate pricing. Sales associates are also responsible for keeping the store neat and tidy; they process returns, reshelve items, and perform light cleaning. Depending on their shift, they may be the one to open or lock up the shop.

What challenges do sales associates face when meeting sales targets, and how can they overcome them?

Sales Associates often encounter challenges such as handling customer objections, managing slow foot traffic, and keeping up with evolving product knowledge. To overcome these, it's helpful to actively listen to customers, ask open-ended questions, and demonstrate a thorough understanding of the products. Regularly participating in training sessions and collaborating with teammates for best practices can also boost confidence and effectiveness. Staying adaptable and maintaining a positive attitude are key to consistently achieving sales goals.

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

AspectSales AssociateCustomer Service Representative
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; sales training often providedHigh school diploma; customer service training
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, showrooms, mallsCall centers, retail, service desks
Employer & Industry UsageRetail, wholesale, hospitalityRetail, telecom, banking, hospitality
Common Search & Comparison IntentSales skills, commission structureCustomer interaction, problem-solving

While both roles involve direct interaction with customers, Sales Associates focus on promoting and selling products, often earning commissions. Customer Service Representatives primarily handle inquiries, resolve issues, and support customer satisfaction. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role based on their skills and career goals.

More about Sales Associate jobs

What cities near Laurel, NE are hiring for Sales Associate jobs?

Cities near Laurel, NE with the most Sales Associate job openings:

Sales Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sales Associate job openings in Laurel, NE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,380 per year, or $16 per hour.

Sales Associate

OSNI Ponca LLC

Crofton, NE • On-site

$15 - $22.80/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Greet and assist customers in a friendly, professional manner.

  • Engage in the sale of tobacco products, grocery, and other merchandise, and operate the POS system to complete transactions.

  • Verify customer age for tobacco sales, maintain store cleanliness, restock merchandise, and ensure compliance with store policies.

Job description


Position:

Sales Associate

Position Number:


Division:

OSNI

Department:

Ponca Smoke Signals

Reports To:

Retail Manager

Location:

Crofton, NE

Exempt/Non-Exempt:

Non-Exempt

Salary:

Grade 5 ($15.00-$22.80)

Classification:

Part-time

Summary:

The Sales Associate at our smoke shop provides exceptional customer service by assisting guests with their purchases, offering product knowledge, and maintaining the overall appearance of the store. As a representative of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and Osni, the Sales Associate will embody the brand’s values, culture, and commitment to providing high-quality, Native tobacco. This role also ensures compliance with all applicable laws and store policies, with a strong emphasis on fast, friendly, and responsible customer service.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties:
  1. Greet and assist customers in a friendly, professional manner.
  2. Engage in the sale of tobacco products, grocery, and other merchandise.
  3. Operate the POS system to complete transactions accurately and efficiently.
  4. Verify the ID of any patron under the age of (thirty) 30 years before any tobacco sale.
  5. Provide customers with tobacco product information and recommendations based on customer preferences and comparison to national brands
  6. Complete shift paperwork including balancing of register till with logged sales.
  7. Maintain a clean and organized store environment.
  8. Assist in receiving and restocking merchandise.
  9. Ensure that all store policies are followed, including those related to cash handling, inventory management, and customer service.
  10. Uphold the values of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and Osni and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
  11. Work collaboratively with team members and contribute to the store's sales goals.
  12. Monitor for suspicious behavior to ensure the safety of staff and products and report any theft or policy violations.
  13. Identify and report discrepancies in inventory, damaged products, or malfunctioning equipment promptly.
  14. Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
  1. Must be 18 years of age or older.
  2. High school diploma or equivalent.
  3. Previous retail or customer service experience, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellent customer service and a positive customer experience.
  4. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  5. Basic PC knowledge and familiarity with electronic equipment (i.e. cash register, scanners, etc.)
  6. Ability to stand for extended periods and lift to 30 lbs.
  7. Basic math and cash-handling skills.
  8. Availability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
  9. Successful completion of drug screen, motor vehicle/criminal background check, and customer reference
  10. Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. 

The above description is intended to describe the general nature and level of the role. This is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the team member assigned to the position. Ponca Smoke Signals/Osni reserve the right to make changes to the above job description, as necessary. 

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska exercises Indian preference in hiring to Ponca Tribal members and members of federally recognized tribes.

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is an at-will employer.

**This position must comply with Public Law 101-630, Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act and 25 CFR Part 63 Indian Child Protection Act.