Driver/swamper, Thrift Store

ABOUT US

Through the vision to eliminate poverty in our community and guided by a passionate concern for the dignity and well-being of each individual, Bissell Centre's work is based on building relationships, hope and trust. Our mission is to work with others to empower people to move from poverty to cultural, social, and economic prosperity. We empower people to meet their own basic daily needs, participate in community and have sustainable livelihoods, secure housing, feel hope for the future and make plans for a prosperous life. By joining Bissell Centre, you will become part of a fast-paced and dedicated team that works together to realize our vision.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Driver/Swamper, Thrift Store, is responsible for representing the Bissell Centre brand as they will be expected to operate an agency branded vehicle and frequently interact with donors and customers at delivery and pick-up locations designated by the Store Manager. This position requires a strong focus on safety and customer service alongside the ability to work independently and problem solve in the field. This position is retail based.

Location: Bissell Thrift Shop, Alberta Ave

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE ROLE

Ambassadorship

• Model the values of Bissell Centre and communicate these principles in a clear and compelling fashion both internally and externally. Translate agency values into Thrift Store culture and everyday activities to foster a welcoming and engaging working environment.
• Mission focused and driven to provide services and access to clothing necessities for our community participants.

Store Operations, Customer Service and Maintenance

• Pick-up and deliver a wide variety of goods and materials to different addresses using an agency provided delivery vehicle and equipment.
• Follow routes and time schedule by using the most efficient routes possible.
• Foster and maintain strong, positive relationships with community participants, staff and volunteers, donors, and customers.
• Frequent loading and unloading of various weights of donations and materials from the agency vehicle.
• Maintain cleanliness and presentation of the agency vehicle at all times.
• Operate the agency vehicle and equipment while abiding by all agency/roadway rules and regulations while driving in a safe and professional manner.
• Frequent trips to the Community Closet, textile recycling facility and donor partners in and around the Edmonton region.
• Complete daily routine maintenance checks on the agency vehicle including but not limited to inspection of tire pressure, perimeter check, lighting, vehicle box and doors and fluid levels (gas, oil, transmission, radiator, etc.). The expectation is that all maintenance issues are reported to the store management team immediately so that scheduled repairs can be executed.
• Show empathy and the ability to communicate with and support individuals facing mental health, addictions, chronic illness, homelessness, poverty, and related challenges. Able to respond appropriately to intense situations, provide conflict resolution and work directly with individuals with barriers.

General and Administrative

• Support agency policies and procedures, including reporting of staff concerns, safety issues and critical incidents.

• Participate in probationary and annual performance evaluations.
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, training sessions and performance check-ins.
• Participate in routine morning team rallies with store staff prior to operating business hours.
• Adhere to all Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies and procedures to ensure the safety and security of staff, customers, and community participants.
• Perform other duties as required that may not be listed in the formal job description or as assigned by the Store Manager.

QUALIFICATIONS

Formal Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Relevant work experience including a minimum of 1+ years in a driver/swamper position.
• Class 5 License, 3 Year Driver's Abstract, Proof of Vehicle Liability Insurance and Registration is a non-negotiable for this position and must be provided prior to date of hire.

Sector Knowledge

• Familiarity with issues of poverty and Edmonton's urban core is considered an asset.
• Familiarity with the non-profit industry and/or retail non-profit operations is considered an asset.

Working Conditions

• This position works closely with community participants who are experiencing complex life situations. As such, this position requires a calm and empathetic demeanor with the ability to de-escalate conflict and intense situations with clear and effective communication methods.
• Ability to spend frequent periods of time standing and frequent periods of time moving, bending and lifting. It is a frequent requirement to stoop or lift material, fixtures or equipment and climb ladders. Employees must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 50lbs.
• Ability to work in a warehouse environment with varying temperatures and frequent exposure to dust, pet hair, smoke, and other potential allergens.
• Flexibility of the working week is inherent in this position as the workload fluctuates.
• Flexibility to work a combination of weekdays and weekends is required.

Screening Requirements

• Criminal Record Check
• Child Intervention Record Check
• Class 5 License, 3 Year Driver's Abstract, Proof of Vehicle Liability Insurance and Registration

(applicable only if operating agency vehicles)

Training Requirements

• Conflict into Calm Training
• Naloxone Kit Training
• WHMIS Training
• Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Training

The above listed training requirements must be completed within the first six months of employment. Other training requirements may be identified during employment and must be completed as directed.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter to:

Rathi Ramakrishnan

Associate Store Manager

Email: rramakrishnan@bissellcentre.org

Application Deadline: Until filled

We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.

As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, Bissell Centre continues to take action to protect person served and staff. Strategies related to Bissell Centre's response to COVID-19 are driven by the guiding principle of taking all reasonable precautions and measures to protect the health and safety of both persons served and staff. In keeping with this intentional purpose, COVID-19 full vaccination is a condition of employment for new hires, except due to legitimate, established exceptions.

Bissell Centre is an equal opportunity employer who is committed to diversity within our community and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics, or disability. Bissell Centre is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees, in accordance with provincially and federally legislated protected grounds.