Job Details

About Us: Uwajimaya is more than just a grocery store - we're a vibrant cultural destination with a rich history rooted in family, community, and food. Since 1928, we've grown into the Pacific Northwest's premier Asian retailer, known for our wide selection, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to sharing the diverse traditions of Asian cultures. We take pride in creating a one-of-a-kind experience for customers and employees alike - one that's centered around food, culture, and people.

Why Join Uwajimaya?

At Uwajimaya, we believe in nurturing growth - in our communities, our customers, and our team members. We foster an environment built on collaboration, curiosity, and care. Whether you're starting your career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to make a meaningful impact in a workplace that values tradition, innovation, and connection.

Who We're Looking For
We're looking for team members who are collaborative, thoughtful, and passionate about making a difference. Whether you're serving customers, supporting operations, or leading a team, you bring a people-first mindset and a strong work ethic. If you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and believe in the power of inclusion, community, and connection - you'll feel right at home here.

To thrive at Uwajimaya, you should embody our core competencies:

• Functional/Technical Skills: You possess the necessary functional and technical knowledge to perform your job at a high level.
• Customer Focus: You are dedicated to meeting customer expectations and requirements, using feedback for improvements, and building effective relationships based on trust and respect.
• Action Oriented: You enjoy working hard, are full of energy for challenging tasks, and seize opportunities with minimal planning.
• Peer Relationships: You can find common ground with peers, solve problems collaboratively, and are seen as a cooperative team player who encourages collaboration.
• Self-Development: You are committed to continuous self-improvement, adapt to different situations, and work to develop your strengths while addressing weaknesses.

We offer:

• A flexible, inclusive, and friendly work culture
• Competitive starting wages
• Paid holidays from day one
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision benefits
• A generous retirement plan
• Paid time off, long-term disability, and life insurance
• Employee discounts on food and gift items
• Supplemental insurance options
• Opportunities for growth and advancement

Position Summary:

The Store Generalist at Uwajimaya prioritizes excellent customer service by learning the basic competencies of public-facing departments, participating in store-wide initiatives, filling in customer service positions and assisting departments as needed.

Position's Key Responsibilities:

• Provide excellent customer service and maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor.
• Learn and master the basic competencies of various store departments.
• Fill in customer service positions within the store as needed.
• Assist departments in addressing customer needs and inquiries.
• Utilize knowledge gained to direct customers to product locations and provide relevant information.
• Collaborate with different departments to enhance overall store efficiency.
• Adapt to and support the specific needs of various departments as situations arise.
• Support store-wide projects, participate in events, and assist with special store initiatives.
• Conduct product demonstrations, including vendor demos, non-cooking demos, and cooking demos.
• Other duties as assigned.

Starting Pay: $20.76/hr., Depending on Experience
Pay Range: $20.76 - $26.99/hr.

Uwajimaya participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. Please review the E-Verify Participation Poster and Right to Work Poster before proceeding with your application

IER Right to Work Poster (English/Spanish) (PDF, 322.73 KB)

E-Verify Participation Poster (English/Spanish) (PDF, 259.92 KB)

Uwajimaya is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Position Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Minimum of a High school diploma or equivalent.
• Food Handler's Card.
• Prior retail experience and knowledge of Asian products, preferred.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Basic math proficiency, familiarity with ten-key/calculator, and comfortable using computers.
• Must be able to work at least one weekend shift.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and proactively work independently.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.