Sales Associate

Job summary

The Sales Associate will assist customers by recommending tools and equipment while processing transactions and maintaining the sales floor. They will also support store goals by promoting company programs and collaborating with the team to ensure a positive customer experience.

Job details

Company Description KMS Tools & Equipment is a proudly Canadian, 100% locally owned and operated industrial distributor offering exceptional value and an extensive selection of professional, specialty, and value tools. With more than 40 years of history and 16 locations across Western Canada, KMS supports tool users through in-store service, an expert outside sales team, and a full e-commerce platform. The company is built on “bend-over-backwards” customer service, practical expertise, and a friendly neighborhood store experience for both professionals and enthusiasts. In addition to retail sales, KMS provides B2B account sales, authorized tool repair services, and specialized automotive restoration parts. Its mission is to deliver the best value in tools, supported by competitive pricing and a 5-Star Advantage Plan that extends warranties and offers savings on accessories. Role Description The Sales Associate role is a full-time, on-site position based at our Nanaimo, BC location. The Sales Associate will welcome customers, listen to their project or job requirements, and recommend appropriate tools and equipment, drawing on product knowledge and practical understanding of tool applications. Day-to-day tasks include assisting customers at the sales counter, processing transactions, handling returns and exchanges, and maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked sales floor. The role also involves learning and demonstrating product features, supporting promotional displays, answering phone and in-person inquiries, and collaborating with team members to ensure an excellent customer experience. The Sales Associate will contribute to store goals by actively engaging customers, supporting inventory management, and promoting KMS programs such as special orders, warranties, and value-added services. Qualifications Customer service and retail sales skills, including the ability to engage customers, understand needs, and provide practical product recommendations. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain technical information in clear, accessible terms. Basic knowledge or interest in tools and equipment (e.g., power tools, hand tools, woodworking, metalworking, welding, or automotive) and willingness to learn product details. Solid organizational and time-management abilities to handle multiple customers, tasks, and priorities in a busy store environment. Comfort with point-of-sale systems, cash handling, and basic computer use for inventory checks and online orders. Ability to stand for extended periods, move merchandise safely, and follow health and safety procedures. Collaborative mindset and reliability, including punctuality and a positive “can do” attitude aligned with KMS values. Previous experience in retail, hardware, industrial supply, or automotive/tool-related environments is an asset. High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical or trades-related training is considered an advantage.

What you’ll do

The Sales Associate will assist customers by recommending tools and equipment while processing transactions and maintaining the sales floor. They will also support store goals by promoting company programs and collaborating with the team to ensure a positive customer experience.

Requirements

Candidates should have strong customer service and communication skills with a basic interest in tools and equipment. Previous experience in retail or industrial environments is considered an asset, and a high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Benefits

• 5-Star Advantage Plan

Listed skills

• Time management · Preferred
• Point-of-sale systems · Preferred
• Customer service · Preferred
• Problem solving · Preferred
• Product Knowledge · Preferred
• interpersonal skills · Preferred
• Cash handling · Preferred
• Communication · Preferred
• Inventory management · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Customer service
• Retail sales
• Product knowledge
• Communication
• Interpersonal skills
• Point-of-sale systems
• Cash handling
• Inventory management
• Time management
• Technical explanation
• Organizational skills
• Problem solving

Job areas

• Retail
• Sales
• Customer Service & Support
• Trades