1

Thrift Store Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

LeadSales Associate Location: Iowa City, Iowa Pay: $16.50 per hour Job Type: Part-time Schedule: 20 ... Thrift Store, your work helps turn donations into funding for programs that support people in our ...

LeadSales Associate Location: Dubuque, Iowa Pay: $16.50 per hour Job Type: Part-time Schedule: 20 ... Thrift Store, your work helps turn donations into funding for programs that support people in our ...

LeadSales Associate Location: Davenport, Iowa Pay: $16.50 per hour Job Type: Part-time Schedule: 20 ... Thrift Store, your work helps turn donations into funding for programs that support people in our ...

LeadSales Associate Location: Davenport, Iowa Pay: $12.00 per hour Job Type: Part-time Schedule: 20 ... Thrift Store, your work helps turn donations into funding for programs that support people in our ...

Donation Processing Associate Location: Ames, IA Pay: $13.00 per hour Job Type: Part-time Schedule ... Thrift Store, your work helps turn donations into funding for programs that support people in our ...

Donation Processing Associate Location: Ames, IA Pay: $13.00 per hour Job Type: Part-time Schedule ... Thrift Store, your work helps turn donations into funding for programs that support people in our ...

Showing results 41-60

Thrift Store Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$14

$17

How much do thrift store associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for thrift store associate in Iowa is $14.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $15.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a thrift store associate do?

A Thrift Store Associate is responsible for assisting customers, sorting and pricing donated items, restocking shelves, maintaining store cleanliness, and operating cash registers. They help create a welcoming shopping environment and ensure that merchandise is organized and displayed attractively. Thrift Store Associates may also assist with receiving donations and providing customer service, such as answering questions and helping customers find items. Their work supports the store's mission, which often includes funding charitable causes or community programs.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a thrift store associate?

To thrive as a Thrift Store Associate, you need strong customer service skills, basic math abilities, and familiarity with retail operations, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems, barcode scanners, and inventory management software is often required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and adaptability help associates excel in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. These competencies ensure efficient store operations, positive customer experiences, and accurate handling of merchandise and transactions.

What types of collaboration can thrift store associates expect with other staff and volunteers during a typical shift?

Thrift Store Associates regularly work alongside other associates, volunteers, and sometimes supervisors or managers to ensure the store runs smoothly. Teamwork is essential for tasks like sorting donations, restocking shelves, assisting customers, and maintaining a clean, organized sales floor. Communication and cooperation are key, as associates often coordinate with others to price items, manage inventory, and handle busy periods efficiently. This collaborative environment helps foster a supportive workplace and ensures customers have a positive shopping experience.

Do thrift store associates pay well?

Thrift store associates typically earn minimum wage or slightly above, with pay rates varying by location and experience. The job often involves part-time hours and customer service skills, but generally does not offer high salaries. Advancement opportunities may lead to higher pay or supervisory roles.

Do thrift stores pay workers?

Yes, thrift store associates are typically paid employees who receive wages for their work. Pay rates vary depending on the store, location, and experience, and employees may also be eligible for benefits such as discounts or flexible schedules.

How to get a job at a thrift store?

To get a job as a thrift store associate, you should look for job openings at local thrift stores, prepare a simple resume highlighting customer service and organization skills, and apply in person or online. Many stores require applicants to be at least 16 years old and may conduct interviews to assess suitability for the role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Thrift Store jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Thrift Store jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Thrift Store Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,816 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Donation Processing Associate

Salvation Army

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$12/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

597th of 781 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Donation Processing Associate
Location: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Pay: $12.00 per hour
Job Type: Part-time
Schedule: 20 to 29 hours per week, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled
About the Role
At The Salvation Army Thrift Store, your work helps turn donations into funding for programs that support people in our community. As a Donation Attendant you'll be the first point of contact for our generous donors. This role combines customer service, donation processing, and mission-driven work to support The Salvation Army's community programs.
What You'll Do
  • Provide exceptional donor service by greeting donors and offering assistance
  • Process and track donations accurately
  • Maintain a clean and well-organized donation area
  • Sort, load, and unload Salvation Army trucks per center policy
  • Power sort donations as they arrive (where applicable)
  • Support production processes as needed
  • Safeguard all donated materials and assigned equipment
  • Report any complaints, damage, or injuries occurring in the donation area
  • Guide donors on acceptable materials and provide information about pickup services for heavy items
Training Provided
  • Paid training donation process, production standards, and store procedures
  • Ongoing coaching and support from store leadership
  • Opportunity to build retail and customer service skills
Why Join Us
  • Mission-driven work that supports programs in your community
  • On-the-job training
  • Team-oriented environment
  • Employee Discount, Employee Assistance Program, and more!
Required
  • High School Diploma or currently pursuing
  • Strong English communication skills for donor and team interactions
  • Basic computer skills and ability to learn new systems
  • Basic math skills
  • Ability to pass pre-employment background check
  • Must be available for a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays and evenings
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds
  • Occasionally lift and move up to 100 pounds
  • Stand for extended periods
  • Walk, reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, and crouch as needed
  • Work in various weather conditions (outdoor exposure)
What Success Looks Like
  • Positive donor feedback
  • Clean and organized donation area
  • Meeting daily production goals
  • Strong team collaboration
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality
  • Accurate donation tracking and receipting

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are returning to work, U.S. Veterans, people with disabilities, people impacted by the justice system, and people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Salvation Army logo

About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US