Part time E-Commerce & Operations Specialist

General Summary:

Under the direction of the Bookstore Manager, the E-Commerce & Operations Specialist manages the College of the Muscogee Nation bookstore's online presence and digital sales operations. This position is responsible for maintaining and optimizing the e-commerce website, processing online orders, managing digital inventory, and ensuring seamless integration between online and in-store operations. The specialist also provides in-store customer service, merchandising support, and assists with textbook operations during peak periods. This role supports the College's mission to serve students and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation community through accessible, culturally responsive retail services that enhance the educational experience.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

Website Management & Content

• Maintain and update the bookstore's e-commerce website, including textbook information, general merchandise, pricing, inventory availability, and promotional content
• Create compelling product descriptions and digital content that drive online sales and reflect the College's identity and cultural values
• Photograph and prepare digital assets (product images) for website listings, ensuring professional presentation
• Implement basic SEO (Search Engine Optimization) practices to improve product discoverability and increase website traffic
• Ensure mobile compatibility and accessibility of the bookstore website for all users
• Monitor website performance metrics and recommend improvements to enhance user experience and increase conversions

Order Processing & Fulfillment

• Process online orders promptly and accurately, ensuring quality control and customer satisfaction.
• Coordinate fulfillment of online orders, including packaging, shipping to customer addresses, and preparation for in-store pickup.
• Manage shipping logistics and maintain accurate shipping records and tracking information.
• Respond to customer inquiries via email, phone, and online chat regarding online orders, shipping status, and website navigation.
• Handle returns, exchanges, and refunds for online purchases in accordance with bookstore policies.

Digital Inventory & Analytics

• Manage digital inventory accuracy and synchronization between online and physical stock.
• Track and analyze sales data to identify trends, popular products, and opportunities for growth.
• Coordinate with vendors and publishers regarding digital product listings and availability.
• Manage promotional campaigns and seasonal sales through the e-commerce platform.
• Maintain compliance with payment processing security standards (PCI compliance).

Customer Service & Sales

• Operate Point-of-Sale (POS) system for in-store transactions, including general cashier duties.
• Assist customers in locating merchandise and answering product questions with knowledge and courtesy.
• Provide exceptional customer service that reflects the College's values and commitment to student success.
• Open and close the bookstore in the absence of the Bookstore Manager, following all security protocols.

Merchandising & Inventory

• Support merchandising displays and inventory processing to create an inviting shopping environment.
• Assist with receiving, unpacking, pricing, and stocking merchandise.
• Properly reconcile transactions and prepare deposits at the end of each shift.
• Assist with textbook distribution, buyback events, and year-end physical inventory.
• Maintain organized and clean work areas in both the stockroom and sales floor.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with bookstore staff to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Communicate effectively with the Bookstore Manager regarding inventory needs, customer feedback, and operational issues.
• Participate in staff meetings and training sessions.
• Support special events and initiatives that promote the bookstore and College community.

Job Specifications:

Minimum Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computers, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Experience with or ability to quickly learn e-commerce platforms, content management systems (CMS), and Point-of-Sale (POS) systems.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for customer service and digital content creation.
• Basic understanding of online retail operations, including order fulfillment and shipping procedures.
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records and inventory.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Customer service orientation with a friendly, professional demeanor.
• Problem-solving skills and ability to handle customer concerns effectively

Preferred Requirements

Education & Experience

• Associate degree or college coursework in marketing, business, communications, web design, e-commerce, or related field
• 1-2 years of experience in retail, e-commerce, customer service, or related field
• Experience working in higher education, tribal college, or Native American community settings

Technical Skills

• Experience with e-commerce platforms (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce, MBS Systems, or similar bookstore management systems)
• Basic knowledge of digital marketing, SEO, and social media platforms
• Experience with digital photography and image editing software for product listings
• Familiarity with shipping software (UPS, FedEx, USPS) and logistics coordination
• Experience with inventory management systems

Physical Requirements:

• Physical ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs regularly.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach to stock shelves and organize merchandise.

Work Environment:

• Cultural Context: Requires respect for Native American traditions, values, and protocols; fosters collaboration in a culturally rich environment.
• Work Setting: Primarily office-based with regular movement throughout campus buildings, classrooms, and administrative spaces.
• Stakeholder Interaction: Regular engagement with students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
• Physical Demands: Involves sitting, standing, lifting, and carrying; requires mobility in various campus environments.
• Safety Focus: Adheres to CMN safety protocols and proper handling of equipment.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: Works closely with the Student Affairs team in a cooperative, supportive environment.
• Environmental Conditions: Works in climate-controlled settings with occasional outdoor movement between buildings.
• Mission-Focused: Supports the tribal college's mission by maintaining effective technology systems that respect cultural values and traditions.
• Schedule: May occasionally require evening or weekend hours.

Licensure (if appropriate): Teaching certification is helpful but not mandatory.

Disclaimer:

The College of the Muscogee Nation (CMN) provides this job description as a general overview of the duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required for the position. Employment with CMN is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the employer may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, unless otherwise specified in an employment contract. This description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. CMN reserves the right to modify or amend this description as necessary.

CMN is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, CMN does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other category protected under applicable law. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform essential job functions.

As a tribal college, CMN operates under the sovereign authority of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. Employment is governed by tribal law, with federal and state laws applying where appropriate. All compensation, benefits, and job duties are subject to change at the discretion of CMN and in alignment with institutional needs and priorities. By applying for employment with CMN, applicants acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined in this disclaimer.

Public Relations:

Essential attributes of any employee of the CMN, along with the official performance of duties, are personal appearance and public relations. Each employee is expected to make every effort to be well-informed about the institution, pleasant, courteous, and cooperative. As an employee, you are expected to act in a manner that commands the respect of all personnel and students.