We’re a busy, independently owned candle shop in the heart of Salem, and we’re looking for a dedicated Shop Manager to help keep everything running smoothly. As a small business, every team member matters—but the Shop Manager is truly the backbone of the shop. You’ll oversee day-to-day operations, lead our retail team, manage incoming products and make sure our customers leave with an unforgettable experience.

This is a hands-on role where no two days are the same—you’ll balance customer service, merchandising, scheduling, and problem-solving, all while keeping the shop organized and welcoming. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love motivating a team, and enjoy being at the center of a small business that’s growing, we’d love to meet you.

What You’ll Do

• Be the face of the shop, ensuring every customer feels welcome and cared for
• Oversee store operations, from inventory and merchandising to scheduling and administration
• Maintain high standards for shop presentation (clean, stocked, and always ready for customers)
• Lead, train, and motivate the sales team to perform at their best
• Interview and hire new staff as needed, helping to build a strong, reliable team
• Create and manage staff schedules
• Handle customer feedback with care and professionalism
• Monitor sales goals and brainstorm creative ways to grow
• Keep communication flowing between staff and upper management
• Step in wherever needed—you’re the person who keeps it all together

What We’re Looking For

• Strong leadership and organizational skills—you know how to keep things moving
• A natural communicator who connects easily with customers and staff
• Experience in retail management or team leadership
• Ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while staying calm and positive
• Someone who takes pride in running a shop that looks great and runs smoothly
• A supportive, motivating leader who builds people up, not down

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a long-running Salem small business with a passionate, loyal customer base
• Work in a lively, one-of-a-kind retail environment (it’s never boring here!)
• Play a key role in a growing team where your work truly makes a difference
• Help shape the customer experience in a shop that’s loved by locals and visitors alike

This is a fragrance based business, if you have scent sensitivities, this position might not be a good fit for you. Benefits include employee discount on candles and merchandise, fun work environment in the heart of Salem, be part of a small, supportive team (not a corporate chain), flexible schedule & daytime work hours, opportunities to grow with a long-running small business

Salary compensation is based on qualifications and experience.