Smoke Rings Smoke Shop Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

About Us

We're a laid-back, but driven, counter-culture retail shop right in the heart of Historic Dinkytown, serving a diverse and loyal community of regulars, students, and curious first-timers. We are seeking someone who is responsible, eager to learn, friendly yet firm, and always up for a good conversation. We're looking for a Retail Sales Manager who can keep the shop running smoothly, lead a great team, and help us keep the vibe as strong as the customer service.

Position Summary

The Retail Sales Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the store, including staff supervision, scheduling, inventory management, customer service, and maintaining a safe, welcoming, and well-organized shopping environment. This role requires a hands-on leader who's comfortable behind the counter, on the floor, and in the back office all in the same shift.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership

• Supervise, coach, and motivate sales associates to deliver excellent customer service
• Create and manage staff schedules, ensuring adequate coverage during peak hours
• Step in and cover shifts personally when staff call out or can't make it in
• Train new hires on POS systems, product knowledge, and store policies
• Conduct performance check-ins and address staff concerns as they arise

Inventory Management

• Order inventory from vendors and maintain relationships with suppliers
• Track stock levels, conduct regular inventory counts, and manage reordering to prevent stockouts or overstock
• Receive and process shipments, ensuring accurate stock entry
• Monitor shrinkage and implement loss-prevention best practices

Customer Service & Sales Floor

• Operate the POS system for sales transactions
• Provide knowledgeable, friendly guidance to customers across a wide variety of product categories
• De-escalate customer complaints or difficult situations calmly and professionally
• Maintain a clean, organized, and visually appealing sales floor
• Ensure compliance with all age-verification and legal sales requirements for restricted products

Operations & Administration

• Open and close the store, including cash handling and end-of-day reporting
• Ensure the store meets all local, state, and federal regulations relevant to the products sold
• Maintain a safe working environment for staff and customers
• Communicate regularly with ownership/management on sales trends, staffing needs, and inventory issues

Requirements

• Prior retail management or shift lead experience required
• Proven ability to manage, schedule, and motivate a team
• Experience with inventory ordering and tracking
• Comfortable and competent operating a POS system
• Strong conflict-resolution and customer de-escalation skills
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Willingness to learn about a wide range of products, including new and unfamiliar categories
• Must be willing to cover shifts on short notice when staffing gaps occur
• Must be 21+ years of age (required due to products sold)
• Ability to pass any required background check for tobacco/smoking accessory sales
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and some holidays

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a head shop, glass shop, smoke shop, or similar counter-culture retail environment
• Familiarity with glass pipes, vaporizers, smoking accessories, and related product categories
• Experience with age-restricted product compliance
• Basic knowledge of local cannabis/hemp/CBD regulations, where applicable

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 30–40 lbs (inventory boxes, restocking)
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, customer-facing retail environment

What We Offer

• Competitive starting hourly wage with increase potential - plus potential yearly bonus
• Employee discount on store products
• Employee discount on neighboring Dispensary
• A fun, work environment with a tight-knit team
• Opportunities for growth
• Flexible scheduling (within reason, this is retail!)

This store sells legal smoking accessories, glassware, and related novelty items. All applicants must meet minimum age requirements (must be 18+ to work in a Tobacco related shop) and comply with all applicable state and local laws.

The Hideaway is Historic Dinkytown's go-to counter-culture shop, offering glass, smoking accessories, and unique gear for the curious and the loyal alike. Rooted in individuality and good vibes, we've built a space where customers come for the products and stay for the community.