Lead Bookstore Team Member

Reports To: Assistant Store Manager

Who We Are: Opened in 2016, Buxton Books is an independent, New York Times and ABA reporting bookstore located on King Street, the main thoroughfare in historic, downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Buxton Books is an events-motivated bookstore, with a track record of successful, book-included events. We specialize in dynamic, creative events ranging from bespoke walking tours to culinary events. With a knowledgeable staff, highly curated book selection, and robust event schedule, we value and uphold the traditions of a neighborhood bookstore while also welcoming the visiting reading community. Buxton Books specializes in creative collaborations throughout our community with venues, non-profits, and many other organizations.

Job Purpose: Bookstore Leads are trusted keyholders and frontline leaders who take ownership of the store's day-to-day operations. They are responsible for opening and closing the store, leading the team on the floor, and ensuring that every shift runs smoothly, efficiently, and to the highest standard. In addition to delivering excellent customer service, they handle back-of-house tasks, support inventory and merchandising needs, and uphold store-wide expectations. Leads set the tone for the team by modeling strong communication, accountability, and a commitment to Buxton's values—creating a work environment that is organized, proactive, and welcoming for both staff and customers.

Primary Responsibilities

• Act as the manager on duty when opening or closing the store, ensuring all daily tasks and priorities are completed to the highest standard
• Lead and support the bookselling team on the floor, helping to set the tone for service, pace, and professionalism throughout each shift
• Oversee store operations, including delegating tasks, monitoring breaks, maintaining cleanliness, and troubleshooting issues as they arise
• Assist with inventory management, receiving, and merchandising, ensuring the sales floor is fully stocked, organized, and visually appealing
• Provide thoughtful and responsive customer service, handling escalated issues or special situations with care and clarity
• Support back-of-house operations including supplies management, cash handling, and ensuring closing paperwork and checklists are accurate
• Collaborate with leadership on store improvements and consistently communicate team needs, customer feedback, or operational gaps
• Step in wherever needed and take initiative to solve problems, keep things moving, and support your team
• Model and uphold Buxton's values in every interaction, fostering a culture of hospitality, curiosity, and accountability

Who You Are

• 2+ years experience in a customer facing role with an emphasis on engaging and thoughtful interactions preferred
• 1+ years experience in a retail leadership role preferred
• You have open availability (nights, weekends, and holidays)
• You are a positive person with an optimistic attitude
• You are flexible and understand that company needs will change at any given time
• You are friendly, approachable, and love engaging with strangers
• You have excellent communication skills
• You care about the impact you have on other members of your team
• You love learning & take initiative to do so
• Be able to lift 50 lbs
• Be able to stand on your feet for prolonged periods of time

What You'll Get

• A new quirky book-loving community who is there to support you, inspire you, and laugh with you
• An opportunity to be a huge part of a growing company and the satisfaction that goes along with that
• Retirement Savings Plan (IRA): Access to an Individual Retirement Account with company contributions (if applicable), helping you plan for your future.
• Discounts on books, tours, and other perks of course

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $ $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person