Antique Store Attendant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of modernity, the allure of antique stores and the individuals that operate them has never been more captivating.

As trends circle back to the charm of the old and the rustic, the demand for knowledgeable minds who can curate, manage, and preserve our historical treasures grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Antique Store Attendant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager attempting to paint the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes of antique store operations,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Antique Store Attendant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Antique Store Attendant Duties and Responsibilities

Antique Store Attendants primarily interact with customers, offering in-depth knowledge and advice on antiques and collectibles.

They also handle a wide variety of daily operational duties in the store.

Their responsibilities include:

• Greet and assist customers as they enter the store
• Provide detailed information and history about specific antiques and collectibles
• Handle sales transactions and process customer payments
• Appraise and price items, understanding their historical and monetary value
• Maintain the store’s inventory, cataloguing new items as they arrive
• Ensure the items on display are clean and presentable
• Organize the store layout for optimal customer experience
• Handle delicate items with care to prevent damage
• Assist with marketing efforts, including window displays and online listings
• Maintain the security of valuable items
• Work with antique dealers and collectors, building relationships and sourcing new items
• Keep up-to-date knowledge about the antique market and trends

 

Antique Store Attendant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and attentive Antique Store Attendant who has a passion for vintage and antique items.

Your primary responsibilities will include assisting customers, maintaining store cleanliness, and helping to price and display items.

The ideal candidate will possess an understanding of various types of antiques and their value, excellent customer service skills, and an eye for detail.

Previous retail experience, especially within an antique or vintage environment, is beneficial.

 

Responsibilities

• Greet customers upon their arrival in the store and provide them with information on available products
• Assist customers in finding specific items or providing suggestions based on their preferences
• Maintain cleanliness and order in the store
• Help in pricing and displaying items in an attractive manner
• Provide information about the historical or cultural significance of items
• Assist with inventory control and record-keeping
• Process customer transactions at the cash register
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints professionally

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Previous experience in retail, preferably in an antique store or similar environment
• Knowledge of different types of antiques and their value
• Excellent customer service skills
• Good numerical skills and comfortable handling cash transactions
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays
• Physically capable of standing for extended periods and lifting heavy items

 

Benefits

• Paid time off
• Store discount
• Pension plan

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Antique Store Attendant
• Work Environment: Storefront, sometimes requiring lifting of heavy objects and standing for extended periods.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Store Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Dependent on experience and qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Antique Store Attendant Do?

An Antique Store Attendant primarily works in retail settings where antiques are sold.

These antiques could range from vintage furniture, clothing, jewelry, paintings to various collectibles.

The main role of an Antique Store Attendant is to assist customers in finding the items they’re looking for, answer any questions regarding the products’ history, value, and care, and process customer transactions.

They may also assist in the packaging and delivery of larger items.

They are often responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and presentation of the store, displaying items in an appealing manner, and ensuring that all items are tagged correctly with the necessary information.

Antique Store Attendants may also handle tasks such as taking inventory, pricing items, and restocking shelves.

They need to be knowledgeable about various antiques, able to spot fakes, and familiar with current market values.

In some cases, they may work closely with antique appraisers and restorers, especially when evaluating the worth of new items coming into the store or restoring damaged antiques.

Their job is to ensure that customers have a pleasant shopping experience, which includes providing excellent customer service, having a wide knowledge of the items in the store, and handling any customer complaints or issues that arise.

 

Antique Store Attendant Qualifications and Skills

An effective Antique Store Attendant should have a specialized set of skills and qualifications that include:

• Knowledge about various antiques, their history, value, and maintenance to guide customers effectively.
• Strong communication skills to provide detailed information about antiques to customers and to understand their specific requirements.
• Exceptional customer service skills to help ensure a positive shopping experience for customers, creating repeat business.
• Ability to handle transactions efficiently, including processing payments and arranging for the safe delivery of large or delicate items.
• Meticulous attention to detail for pricing, tagging, and displaying items attractively and accurately.
• Ability to perform light restoration work or product care, such as cleaning or minor repairs.
• Interpersonal skills for building relationships with antique dealers, estate sale managers, and other sources of inventory.
• Problem-solving skills to effectively handle customer inquiries, complaints, or issues.
• Physical strength and stamina to move or rearrange heavy pieces of furniture or other large items.

 

Antique Store Attendant Experience Requirements

For an Antique Store Attendant, entry-level roles generally require a high school diploma and an interest in antiques, with no specific experience necessary.

However, any past retail or customer service experience would be advantageous.

These individuals should have strong communication skills and be able to interact with customers on a regular basis.

Those with 1 to 2 years of experience in antique or vintage retail would be considered for more advanced roles.

These professionals may have gained experience in identifying and pricing antiques, interacting with customers, and handling delicate items.

They should also have a good understanding of sales techniques and customer service standards.

For more senior roles, candidates with over 3 years of experience in an antique store or a similar environment are preferred.

They should have strong knowledge about different types of antiques, their history, and value.

They may also be responsible for managing inventories, procuring new items, and overseeing other staff members.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may be considered for managerial roles in larger antique stores or chains.

These roles require excellent leadership and organizational skills, as well as a deep understanding of antique valuation, restoration, and sales.

 

Antique Store Attendant Education and Training Requirements

An Antique Store Attendant typically requires a high school diploma or its equivalent as a minimum educational qualification.

They should possess a deep knowledge of various antiques, their history, and value.

This knowledge can be gained through personal study, attending workshops, or pursuing related courses in Art History, History, or Archaeology.

In addition to this, having a background in retail or customer service can be helpful as the role involves interacting with customers, answering their queries, and sometimes negotiating prices.

Although it’s not mandatory, a certification from a recognized body like the Appraisers Association of America or the International Society of Appraisers can showcase the attendant’s expertise and dedication to the field.

Many attendants also gain experience and knowledge by working with experienced antique dealers or by attending auctions, estate sales, and flea markets.

Continuous learning is important in this role, as trends in the antique market can change, and new items may need to be researched and evaluated.

 

Antique Store Attendant Salary Expectations

The average wage for an Antique Store Attendant is approximately $12.50 (USD) per hour.

However, this wage can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, the location of the store, and the size and profitability of the business.

 

Antique Store Attendant Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Antique Store Attendant need?

Antique Store Attendants need to have excellent customer service skills as they will be dealing directly with clients.

They should also have a keen eye for detail, helping to identify and value antiques.

Knowledge of history, art, furniture, or jewelry can be beneficial, depending on the type of antiques sold at the store.

Organizational skills are also important for arranging and cataloging items.

 

Do Antique Store Attendants need a degree?

While not always necessary, some Antique Store Attendants may have a degree in History, Art History, or a similar field, especially if they are involved in appraising and valuing items.

Regardless of education, a strong passion for and knowledge of antiques is crucial for this role.

 

What should you look for in an Antique Store Attendant resume?

When reviewing a resume, look for prior customer service experience, especially in retail.

Knowledge or interest in antiques, art, or history should also be highlighted.

Any experience or training in appraising antiques would be a major advantage.

Soft skills like attention to detail, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Antique Store Attendant?

A good Antique Store Attendant should have a genuine passion for antiques and enjoy working with people.

They should be able to communicate effectively with customers and provide excellent customer service.

They also need to be trustworthy, as they may be handling valuable and delicate items.

Patience and attentiveness are also key qualities, as the attendant may need to spend time researching items to accurately price them.

 

Is it difficult to hire Antique Store Attendants?

The difficulty in hiring an Antique Store Attendant depends largely on the local market and the specific needs of your store.

Finding candidates with a passion for antiques and the necessary customer service skills should be quite possible.

However, if you require an attendant with specific knowledge or appraisal skills, the hiring process may take longer.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the authentic charm and nuance of being an antique store attendant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about selling old items.

It’s about preserving history, one artifact at a time.

With our handy antique store attendant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this vintage journey.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulously-detailed job listings or refining your resume to vintage perfection.

Remember:

Every artifact is a piece of the grand tapestry of history.

Let’s preserve that history. Together.

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