Job Summary
We are seeking a knowledgeable, customer-focused Lumber, Building Materials & Hardware Sales Associate to support professional contractors, tradespeople, and retail customers at our contractor/pro and hardware counters. This role combines product expertise, estimating, quoting, merchandising, and relationship-based selling to ensure customers receive the right materials, tools, and hardware solutions for their projects.
The ideal candidate understands building materials, construction practices, tools, fasteners, and general hardware, and thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. You will play a key role in driving sales, supporting daily store operations, and delivering an exceptional customer experience across both the lumber yard and hardware departments.
Responsibilities
Customer Service & Sales
- Greet all customers promptly and professionally (within 30 seconds of arrival).
- Build strong relationships with contractors, builders, maintenance professionals, and DIY customers.
- Identify customer needs through consultative, open-ended questions.
- Recommend appropriate materials, tools, hardware, and complementary add-ons to maximize project success and sales.
- Prepare accurate pricing, quotations, estimates, and material take-offs.
- Follow up on quotes, backorders, and special orders to close sales.
- Resolve customer concerns quickly and professionally to ensure satisfaction and repeat business.
Product & Technical Knowledge – Lumber, Building Materials & Hardware
- Maintain strong working knowledge of:
- Lumber and sheet goods
- Drywall, insulation, roofing, siding, and concrete products
- Power tools, hand tools, fasteners, anchors, adhesives, and general hardware
- Safety equipment and job-site supplies
- Advise customers on proper product selection, applications, compatibility, and best practices.
- Assist with hardware solutions such as fastener matching, tool recommendations, and repair parts identification.
- Understand local building codes, common construction methods, and permitting requirements.
- Stay current on new products, seasonal items, and competitor pricing trends.
Hardware & Merchandising Support
- Maintain organized, fully stocked hardware aisles and displays.
- Restock shelves, rotate inventory, and ensure accurate pricing and labeling.
- Assist with receiving, put-away, and cycle counts.
- Set up promotions, endcaps, and seasonal displays.
- Identify slow-moving or surplus inventory and suggest improvements.
Operations & Administration
- Process sales, orders, returns, exchanges, and special orders accurately through POS/ERP systems.
- Coordinate with yard, delivery, and purchasing teams to ensure timely fulfillment.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and professional counter and work area.
- Protect confidentiality of customer and company information.
Teamwork & Safety
- Collaborate with sales, yard, hardware, and management teams to ensure smooth store operations.
- Assist customers with loading or locating materials when needed.
- Follow all company policies and provincial/federal safety regulations.
- Report hazards or unsafe behaviors immediately.
- Contribute ideas to improve sales, efficiency, and customer service.
Qualifications & Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Experience in lumber, building materials, hardware, construction, or contractor sales preferred
- Retail or counter sales experience considered an asset
- Knowledge of tools, fasteners, and general hardware strongly preferred
- Ability to prepare estimates, quotes, and basic material take-offs
- Strong math and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Organized, detail-oriented, and able to multitask
- Comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs and working in both indoor/outdoor environments
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
- Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and team-oriented mindset
What Success Looks Like
- Contractors and customers trust you as their go-to resource
- Quotes are accurate and completed quickly
- Hardware and lumber departments are organized and well stocked
- Orders flow smoothly between sales, yard, and delivery
- Customers return because of your service and expertise
- Sales and margins grow through product knowledge and upselling
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $19.00-$23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Store discount
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
