LBM (Lumber and Building Materials) DESK ASSOCIATE

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The LBM (Lumber and Building Materials) Desk Associate is responsible for providing prompt, courteous, and efficient sales and service to DYI customer, home builders/contractors, asking questions to determine their needs and then advising them on appropriate merchandise and related items to meet their needs. They must be familiar with pricing, local building codes, types of building permits issued. Prepare quotes on windows, doors, siding, roofing, decking, lumber and building materials in a timely fashion. The LBM Desk is a fast paced, high-energy environment where the ability to interact across multiple platforms in a professional manner is key. 

The LBM desk associate will be a point of contact for DYI customer, home builders/contractors, suppliers and coworkers. The LBM desk associate must perform all assigned tasks with sufficient speed and accuracy to support store efficiency and a high level of customer service and contribute to the work environment in a positive manner that fosters pride in being part of a winning team.

DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure customers are greeted within 30 seconds of their arrival at the LBM desk.
• Handle a high volume of incoming phone calls and email communications.
• Determine customers’ needs by asking open-ended questions.
• Communicate product knowledge to the customer as appropriate.
• Communicate effectively and persuasively with employees, management, suppliers, and customers to obtain accurate information for pricing, estimates, quotations, etc.
• Prepare quotes, invoices and shipping documents.
• Process special orders for non-stock or out of stock items.
• Process returns and credits as required.
• Assist customers with carrying out large or heavy items.
• Be familiar with and maintain up-to-date information on pricing.
• Be familiar with local building codes and types of building permits issued.
• Be familiar with prices, practices, and policies of the company’s competitors.
• Help customers solve building problems.
• Maintain a strong relationship with customers, vendors, salespeople and department heads.
• Read blueprints and quote accurately and promptly.
• Keep up to date on practical knowledge of building materials and lumber products, including their uses, advantages, and disadvantages.
• Handle customer complaints, provide appropriate solutions and alternatives and follow up to ensure resolution.
• Be familiar with current yard inventory and surplus items.
• Work with logistics/yard to coordinate shipments of product.
• Make suggestions for rule or policy changes when such changes would improve sales, profits, efficiency, morale, and/or operations in general.
• Maintain professional confidentiality of all store and customer records.
• Attend store meetings, training sessions, etc. as required.
• Work on additional duties and assignments as assigned by management.
• Work in a safe manner in accordance with provincial and federal safety legislation. Report any potential hazards and unsafe behavior to management in order to have the situation corrected.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School graduation or equivalent.
• Retail background and experience is an asset. 
• Hardware, lumber and building materials industry knowledge.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Friendly and helpful attitude toward customers.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent mathematical skills.
• Strong sales skills.
• Strong and solid background in construction.
• Ability to work co-operatively in a team atmosphere.
• Willingness to learn.
• Willingness to continually develop professional skills and product knowledge.
• Outstanding organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Web based research skills.
• An analytical mind with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to lift 50 to 100 pounds.
• Ability to commute/relocate.
• POS system and computer experience is an asset.

JOB TYPE:

• Full-time

SALARY:

• Hourly Rate $18.00 TO $25.00 Depending on Qualifications, opportunities for growth into salaried contract sales positions

BENEFITS:

• Dental Care.
• Extended Health Care.
• Vision Care.
• Store Discount.
• Company RRSP Plan, Employer % Contribution.

SCHEDULE:

• 8 hour shift during store operational hours.
• Day shift and some evenings shifts as necessary.
• 7:00AM to 5:30PM (Monday - Friday)
• 8:00AM to 5:00PM (Saturday)
• Overtime.

EXPERIENCE:

• Experience working in retail, sales and hardware/building supplies is a bonus but not necessary.
• Customer service, 2 to 3 years’ experience preferred.
• LBM contractor sales 1 to 3 years’ experience preferred
• Knowledge of current industry trends, pricing and local building codes is an asset.
• Sales training is an asset.
• Trade experience is an asset.

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS:

• Reports directly to the Floor Supervisor, Store Manager or Dealer-Owner.

INTERESTED APPLICANTS, PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR RESUME TO:

Ryan Ingram
hr@ferniehome.ca 
Phone: 250-423-4694
Fernie Home Hardware Building Centre
300 Manitou Road, Fernie BC