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Specialty Associate Team Leader

Job Description

Assists the Team Leader in all aspects of daily operations including profitability, expense control, buying, merchandising, labor, regulatory compliance and special projects as assigned. Leads and develops Team Members. All Whole Foods Market Retail jobs require ensuring a positive company image by providing courteous, friendly, and efficient service to customers and Team Members at all times. All positions must be performed in accordance with team and store Standard Operating Procedures. Further, Team Members must be prepared and able to perform the duties inherent in other Team Member job descriptions. All positions must strive to support WFM core values and goals, promote national, regional, and store programs and initiatives, and ensure adherence to all applicable health and safety regulations including Food Safety and regulatory duties required in the department.

Job Responsibilities

  • Develops and maintains creative store layout and product merchandising. 

  • Works with Team Leader to achieve sales, purchasing, and labor targets. 

  • Assists Team Leader in analysis of sales, reports, and labor. 

  • Assists team leader in annual sales and expense projections and budget preparation. 

  • Assists team leader with ordering and inventory management. 

  • Works with Team Leader to resolve team concerns or issues. 

  • Functions as point person and departmental person in charge in absence of Team Leader. 

  • Sets and achieves the highest standards of retail execution. 

  • Fosters and encourages a positive environment of outstanding teamwork, mutual respect, and exceptional morale. 

  • Maintains awareness of customer flows and needs and directs Team Members as necessary to satisfy and delight customers; responds promptly to customer needs and questions. 

  • Selects, trains, develops, mentors, motivates, and counsels Team Members in a manner that sustains a high-performance team and minimizes turnover. 

  • Communicates and maintains Team Member safety and security standards. 

  • Provides timely, thorough, and thoughtful performance evaluations. 

  • Consistently communicates and models WFM vision and goals.

Job Skills

  • High energy, enthusiastic, and displays an affinity for our products, core values, and company philosophy. 

  • Extensive knowledge of Specialty products. 

  • Growth mindset towards greater responsibility and ownership. 

  • Desire to coach and mentor others for growth. 

  • Excellent interpersonal, motivational, team building, and customer relationship skills. 

  • Capable of teaching others in a positive and constructive manner. 

  • Thorough product knowledge. 

  • Advanced knowledge of regulatory and safety policies and procedures. 

  • Proficient mathematical skills for assessing financial performance, monitoring profitability, and managing inventory. 

  • Demonstrated decision-making ability, leadership skills, and ability to prioritize and delegate. 

  • Proficiency with email, Microsoft Office, and operations-related applications.

Experience

  • 18+ months retail Team Member experience and 6+ months of supervisory experience. 

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds. 

  • In an 8-hour work day: standing/walking 6-8 hours. 

  • Hand use: single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling. 

  • Work requires the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting and reaching. 

  • Exposure to FDA approved cleaning chemicals. 

  • Exposure to temperatures: <32 degrees Fahrenheit (freezing), 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit (refrigerators), >90 degrees Fahrenheit. 

  • Ability to work in a wet and cold environment. 

  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. 

  • Ability to use tools and equipment, including box cutters, electric pallet jacks, and other heavy machinery. 

  • Where applicable, TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures by Servers of Alcohol) course completion required and must be age 18 years of age or older to serve alcohol. 

Note: The purpose of this document is to provide a general summary of essential responsibilities for the position and is not meant as an exhaustive list. This document does not reflect all job duties or requirements for every position. Requirements build as one progresses through the job levels, so any job duties required at a lower level may be required at the higher level in addition to the duties listed for that higher level. Duties, assignments, and other responsibilities may differ for similar positions based on business conditions, departmental or geographic location, and/or needs for the particular position. An individual must demonstrate successful performance in their current position before being considered for promotion. In addition, in order to promote into a higher-level position, a business need for the promotion must exist and the candidate must be considered the most qualified person for the new position. Completion of certain milestones such as obtaining an advanced degree or certification, time in current position, or developing skills to perform at the higher-level role do not guarantee a promotion. 

At Whole Foods Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Whole Foods Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.

Whole Foods Market works with job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter to promote opportunities at our company. Please be aware that other career sites may not be accurate or up to date and may even be fraudulent. We encourage and recommend all candidates to apply via our site.

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Average salary estimate

$50000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$40000K
$60000K

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What You Should Know About Specialty Associate Team Leader, Whole Foods Market

If you're looking for an exciting career with Whole Foods Market, the Specialty Associate Team Leader position in Austin, TX might be just what you need! As a Specialty Associate Team Leader, you'll play an integral role in the daily operations of the store, working closely with the Team Leader to ensure everything runs smoothly. Your responsibilities will include maintaining profitability through expense control, buying, and merchandising while ensuring top-notch service to our customers and Team Members. You'll have the chance to lead and mentor a fantastic group of team members, guiding them to foster a positive and energetic work environment that thrives on teamwork. In this role, you'll also engage in various analytics, assisting the Team Leader in sales projections and inventory management, making this a dynamic position that requires both leadership and analytical skills. Your love for specialty products and high energy will shine as you develop the store layout and product merchandising, delighting customers and meeting their needs. Plus, your strong communication skills will be essential in establishing a great rapport with the team. If you're someone with a minimum of 18 months retail experience and a passion for nurturing talent while supporting Whole Foods Market's values, we would love to have you on board!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Specialty Associate Team Leader Role at Whole Foods Market
What are the responsibilities of a Specialty Associate Team Leader at Whole Foods Market?

As a Specialty Associate Team Leader at Whole Foods Market, you will assist the Team Leader in various operational tasks including managing expenses and purchasing, developing store layouts, and leading a team of dedicated individuals. Your role is pivotal in fostering a positive store atmosphere while ensuring exceptional service delivery.

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What qualifications do I need to become a Specialty Associate Team Leader at Whole Foods Market?

To qualify for the Specialty Associate Team Leader position at Whole Foods Market, the ideal candidate should have at least 18 months of retail experience coupled with a minimum of 6 months in a supervisory role. Additionally, you should possess excellent communication skills, a strong understanding of specialty products, and a passion for leadership.

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How does Whole Foods Market support Team Members in their roles as Specialty Associate Team Leaders?

Whole Foods Market believes in nurturing talent and supporting Team Members through mentorship and development opportunities. As a Specialty Associate Team Leader, you will receive training in leadership and operational excellence, empowering you to influence a positive work environment and team success.

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What is the work environment like for a Specialty Associate Team Leader at Whole Foods Market?

The work environment for a Specialty Associate Team Leader at Whole Foods Market is vibrant and community-oriented. You will engage with both customers and your team, creating a culture of teamwork and mutual respect while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and delivering exceptional service.

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What type of advancement opportunities exist for Specialty Associate Team Leaders at Whole Foods Market?

At Whole Foods Market, there are numerous advancement opportunities for Specialty Associate Team Leaders. Candidates demonstrating successful performance and growth in their current role can be considered for promotions, provided there is a business need and they are proven to be the most qualified for the new position.

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Common Interview Questions for Specialty Associate Team Leader
Can you describe your leadership style as a Specialty Associate Team Leader?

When asked about your leadership style, highlight your ability to foster a positive team environment, focus on collaboration, and your approach to mentorship. Consider sharing examples where you led projects or team initiatives successfully.

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What experience do you have with inventory management?

Discuss your previous experience with inventory control, including specific software you've used, processes you've implemented, and how you ensured that stock levels met the needs of customers and the store efficiently.

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How do you promote teamwork among your team?

Describe methods you use to create a cohesive team atmosphere, such as team-building activities, open communication strategies, and your role in mediating conflicts to encourage collaboration and harmony among Team Members.

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What strategies do you use for merchandising specialty products?

Talk about your approach to product placement and visual merchandising. Mention techniques for creating appealing store layouts and any innovative ideas you've implemented that boosted sales in your previous roles.

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How do you address and resolve customer concerns?

Explain your process for handling customer inquiries or complaints. Emphasize the importance of listening to understand their issues fully and providing prompt solutions that align with the company's customer service standards.

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What skills do you think are most important for a Specialty Associate Team Leader?

Highlight key skills such as effective communication, leadership, a thorough understanding of retail operations, customer service orientation, and the ability to analyze sales data to drive decisions.

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Can you give an example of a time you had to make a difficult decision in a leadership role?

Reflect on a specific situation where you had to make a tough decision, detailing the context, your thought process, and the outcome. Showcase your ability to remain calm and rational under pressure.

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How do you keep yourself and your team motivated?

Discuss techniques you use to inspire and motivate your team, such as setting clear goals, celebrating achievements, providing regular feedback, and encouraging professional development.

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What do you know about Whole Foods Market's values and mission?

Demonstrate your knowledge of Whole Foods Market by discussing its commitment to sustainable practices, quality products, and community engagement. Show how these values align with your own beliefs and work ethic.

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How do you handle challenges during peak business periods?

Describe your strategies for managing stress during high-pressure times, such as prioritization, delegation, and maintaining open lines of communication with your team to ensure that customer needs are met efficiently.

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Inclusive & Diverse
Rise from Within
Mission Driven
Diversity of Opinions
Work/Life Harmony
Transparent & Candid
Growth & Learning
Fast-Paced
Collaboration over Competition
Take Risks
Friends Outside of Work
Passion for Exploration
Customer-Centric
Reward & Recognition
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Medical Insurance
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Maternity Leave
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Flex-Friendly
Some Meals Provided
Snacks
Social Gatherings
Pet Friendly
Company Retreats
Dental Insurance
Life insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)

Our mission at Whole Foods Market is to attract people who are passionate about great food, the communities in which they live, and the fair treatment of our planet and all of its inhabitants. We want these people to bring their passion into the w...

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 16, 2025

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