Specialty Associate Team Leader (Beer, Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Assistant Department Manager)

Whole Foods Market is a leading natural and organic foods supermarket known for its high-quality products and commitment to sustainability and community impact. This company stands out in the grocery retail industry not only for its wide selection of specialty foods but also for its strong dedication to nourishing people and the planet. Whole Foods Market actively engages in initiatives such as funding grants for school gardens, improving access to fresh and healthy food in underserved communities, and alleviating poverty in developing countries. By working at Whole Foods Market, team members contribute to much more than just the sales of groceries—they become part of a mission to create meaningful change locally and globally while fostering a positive community environment and promoting healthy living.

The role available is an Assistant Team Leader position within Whole Foods Market’s retail division. This role is integral to the daily operations of the store and includes responsibilities related to profitability, expense control, buying, merchandising, labor management, regulatory compliance, and special projects. The Assistant Team Leader works closely with the Team Leader to ensure the store meets sales and financial targets while maintaining high standards for customer service and team member engagement. As a leader, this position also functions as a mentor and coach to team members, helping to develop a motivated and high-performing retail team. The Assistant Team Leader is expected to maintain creative store layouts and merchandising to optimize product visibility and customer satisfaction, as well as support ordering and inventory management efforts. This position serves as the departmental point person and acts in charge when the Team Leader is absent.

This role requires a high level of interpersonal skills to foster a positive work culture centered on teamwork, respect, and outstanding morale. The successful candidate must be enthusiastic about Whole Foods Market’s products and core values, possess extensive knowledge of specialty products, and demonstrate a growth mindset aimed at greater responsibility and ownership. They must possess excellent mathematical skills to analyze financial performance and manage inventory effectively. Advanced knowledge of regulatory and safety policies and proficiency in Microsoft Office and operational applications are necessary to perform the job well. The role requires at least 18 months of retail experience with a minimum of 6 months in a supervisory capacity.

The physical demands of this position include the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand or walk for 6-8 hours in an 8-hour workday, and perform motions such as bending, twisting, squatting, and reaching. The environment can include exposure to FDA-approved cleaning chemicals and temperature variations from freezing to above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed is important. This job also may require the completion of certain certifications like TIPS where applicable.

The hourly wage for this position ranges from $20.05 to $35.00, commensurate with experience. Whole Foods Market offers a comprehensive benefits program called Whole Benefits, which includes eligibility for a store discount, paid time off, financial wellness, health and wellness support programs, and other perks for both full- and part-time employees. The company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and hires based on qualifications and business needs without discrimination.