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Store Operations Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Operations Associate's role is to create an outstanding customer experience by performing ... Customer Service - You're maneuvering around the store at a fast pace, working with all the latest ...

The Operations Associate's role is to create an outstanding customer experience by performing ... Customer Service - You're maneuvering around the store at a fast pace, working with all the latest ...

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Store Operations Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$17

$23

How much do store operations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for store operations associate in Illinois is $17.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a store operations associate?

A store operations associate places merchandise on the floor or shelves of a retail store. In this career, your work duties include taking inventory and managing flow of merchandise from suppliers to the store. Most employers provide training for this job, though some larger stores may seek people with previous inventory management experience. Other educational qualifications could include a high school diploma or equivalent. You need strong organizational skills, the ability to pay attention to detail, and the ability to solve inventory problems with the help of management.

What are some typical daily challenges faced by a store operations associate, and how are they addressed?

Store Operations Associates often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as restocking shelves, assisting customers, and maintaining store tidiness, all while meeting tight deadlines. A common challenge is balancing customer service with operational tasks during busy periods. To manage this, associates prioritize urgent customer needs, communicate effectively with team members, and use time management techniques to stay organized. Stores typically support associates through clear task lists, regular team check-ins, and ongoing training, helping them navigate a fast-paced environment successfully.

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

To thrive as a Store Operations Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and basic retail technology is typically required. Excellent customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help individuals stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient store operations, positive customer experiences, and smooth coordination with team members.

What is the difference between Store Operations Associate vs Retail Sales Associate?

AspectStore Operations AssociateRetail Sales Associate
Primary FocusManaging store operations, inventory, and logisticsAssisting customers, sales, and product promotion
Required SkillsInventory management, organizational skills, basic POS knowledgeCustomer service, communication, sales techniques
Work EnvironmentBack-end and front-end store tasks, often in retail storesFront-line customer interaction in retail settings
Common Employer UsageRetail chains, supermarkets, department storesClothing stores, electronics, specialty shops

While both roles are essential in retail, Store Operations Associates focus on store logistics and management, whereas Retail Sales Associates primarily engage with customers to drive sales. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right positions based on their skills and career goals.

Is a store operations associate a good job?

A store operations associate is a retail role that involves tasks such as stocking shelves, assisting customers, and maintaining store cleanliness. It can offer flexible hours, entry-level opportunities, and skill development in customer service and inventory management. Whether it is a good job depends on individual preferences and career goals in retail or related fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Store Operations jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Store Operations jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Store Operations Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Store Operations Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Store Operations Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,156 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Operations Associate (Full-Time) - Michigan Ave

Chicago, IL • On-site


Alo Yoga
Apparel and Accessories Stores • 501 - 1,000 employees

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 104 rated fashion retailers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students


$17 - $19/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Operations Associate (Full-Time) - Michigan Ave

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Mindful movement. It's at the core of why we do what we do at ALOit's our calling. Because mindful movement in the studio leads to better living. It changes who yogis are off the mat, making their lives and their communities better. That's the real meaning of studio-to-street: taking the consciousness from practice on the mat and putting it into practice in life.

Overview

The Operations Associate is critical in the store team and is responsible for driving profitability and efficiency. The Operations Associate will work closely with the Operations & Visual Management team in initiating, completing work, and providing feedback to the team to achieve optimal results supporting total store operations.

Key Job Responsibilities
  • Execute inventory management processes effectively with a focus on maximizing inventory accuracy and reducing shrink
  • Investigate and root cause inventory accuracy issues, partnering with the General/Store Manager to escalate process or system gaps
  • Support execution of key operational functions including shipment, receiving and processing, reverse transfers, sales floor recovery, intra-day sales floor replenishment, floor set updates, and supply management
  • Maintain and champion strong visual standards for the sales floor
  • Work closely with reporting, budgets, expenses, inventory control, supplies, vendor relationships, technology, and facilities to ensure maintained and maximized
  • Support a safe work environment and efficient operation through strong stockroom standards and processes
  • Move dynamically on the retail floor to assess and fulfill the needs of the business, team and guests
  • Execute company-level operations-focused directives, projects and initiates, in partnership with the Operations & Visual Management team.
  • Assists in processing shipment and ensuring product flow; including but not limited to visual merchandising placement and daily replenishment excellence
  • Demonstrate strong business acumen by leveraging metrics to support business-driving strategies
  • Resolve client needs quickly & effectively ensuring customer satisfaction
  • Identify product concerns and communicate inventory needs to support the business goals
  • Duties require constant movement in and around the store, including the sales floor and back of house. When not actively assisting guests, this position takes initiative to perform other tasks, as needed, to keep store clean, safe, inviting and operating efficiently.
Operations Associate Qualifications
  • 1+ years prior work experience in a client-centric, sales & operational environment
  • Requires constant movement in and around all areas of store
  • Ability to lift, push, carry or otherwise move up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to lift, bend, kneel, climb, crawl and/or twist, and safely climb up/down a ladder
  • Ability to stand and move for an entire shift
  • Passion for customer service and delivering exceptional experiences
  • Self-motivated with a desire to achieve results and excel individually, and as a team
  • Aligns with and embodies ALO's Guiding Principles
Operations Associate Schedule

Full-Time non-exempt associates are expected to have open availability, 7 days a week, between 32 - 40 hours. All employees without exception are expected to be able to work during the company's Blackout period, from the week of American Thanksgiving (including Black Friday and Thanksgiving weekend) through the end of the holiday season (the 1st week of January).

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, ALO does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, citizenship, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or because of any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Just Some Of The Perks
  • Generous employee discount for ALO, and free membership to ALO Wellness Club, with access to hundreds of streaming fitness and yoga classes with top instructors
  • Competitive medical, dental and vision plan options, and enhanced additional benefits such as free virtual access to mental health providers and new parent support for employees and dependents (Full-Time Employees)
  • 401K with company matching (Full-Time Employees)
  • Monthly Store Incentives
  • Clothing Allowance
  • Free yoga classes at any of our Sanctuaries (select cities)

The Company's Associate base pay ranges from $17.00 - $19.00/ hour in Chicago, IL. Please also note, Associates are eligible to participate in the Company's Monthly Store Incentive bonus program, which may result in bringing the total compensation to a higher range. Further, the range listed is just one component of the Company's total rewards package for retail employees. Other rewards may include: clothing allowance, employee discount, 401K, competitive medical, dental, and vision plans, commuter benefits, and ALO Wellness.


Alo Yoga logo

About Alo Yoga

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Apparel and accessories stores

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2007


What Alo Yoga employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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