we're hiring!

Thank you for your interest in working for Bleak House Books! Below is a non-exhaustive description of the job responsibilities for the position of assistant shop manager, and also some thoughts on the qualifications we are looking for in the ideal job candidate for this position. 

 

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Managing point-of-sale operations to include standard checkout activities like accepting cash and credit card payments, providing correct change for cash payments, accepting and processing special order requests, preparing gift cards (parts of the card are handwritten); 

  • Corresponding with and answering questions from readers in-person at the bookshop and via phone, email or instant messaging; 

  • Receiving and inspecting arrivals of new books and merchandise to ensure our orders with publishers and vendors are fulfilled correctly, flagging any books/items that arrive damaged, and compiling/submitting damage claims with publishers and vendors; 

  • Keeping a tidy, clean and well-stocked bookshop and work area;  

  • Inventory management and restocking bookshelves with books and sideline merchandise (non-book items);

  • Tracking, fulfilling, packing and shipping online orders and our Pickwick Club book subscriptions; 

  • Caring for our used book acquisitions which includes light book restoration and repair work (don’t worry, you’ll be trained on this) and applying protective mylar covers to certain used, hardcover titles; 

  • Lending a hand during in-store events/performances and third-party events/markets. 

 

Ideal Qualifications of Job Applicant: 

  • Prior work experience in a full-time position of any kind; 

  • Ability and willingness to take direction; 

  • Self-motivated and shows initiative;

  • Knowledge of literature and the arts; 

  • Responsible, punctual and can commit to a regular work schedule; 

  • Resourceful, creative and crafty (in the artistic sense); 

  • Okay with some light physical labor (books can be heavy). 

 

Pay for this position starts at $20 per hour. This is a part-time position with the potential of becoming a full-time position.  

 

If you are interested in applying for this position, please email us at info@bleakhousebooks.com with the following: 1) your current resume, 2) a cover letter telling us why you are suited for this job and the titles of the last three books you’ve read that you liked, and why, and 3) the names and contacts of three references who can speak to your abilities and qualities in the workplace.