PRODUCE ASSISTANT MANAGER - SEATTLE

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 Assistant Produce Manager (APM) at Uwajimaya plays a crucial role in supporting the Produce Manager (PM) to achieve operational excellence and meet financial goals. Collaborating with the Merchandise Coordinator (MC), the APM contributes to merchandising plans and upholds high standards of food quality and safety. This position involves staff development, fostering a positive team culture, and maintaining strong vendor relationships. The APM ensures compliance with Health Department regulations, Company Ready for Business (RFB) guidelines, and all company policies. Reporting to the PM, the APM also partners with Corporate Support staff to enhance the Uwajimaya experience.

 

Position’s Key Responsibilities: 

 

• Provide exceptional customer service and maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor. 

• Support the supervisors with ongoing staff training, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

• Cultivate positive employee relations and engagement.

• Promptly address and resolve staff concerns to maintain a harmonious work environment and resolve customer concerns in real-time, ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• Drive fiscal health with a focus on sales and gross profitability.

• Assist with managing department financials and associated administrative functions.

• Uphold everyday RFB standards in the Produce department.

• Assist with overseeing and enforce adherence to food and workplace safety standards.

• Ensure a clean, organized, and safe shopping environment in the Produce Department area.

• Collaborate with corporate support staff and various departments for effective communication and operations.

• Other duties as assigned.

 

Starting Pay: $24.30/hr., Depending on Experience
Salary Range: $24.30/hr. – $35.23/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 21 years of age with a Minimum of a High school diploma or its equivalent plus 4-5 years of experience in area of specialization.

• Minimum one year supervisory/management experience required.

• Prior retail experience and knowledge of Asian products preferred.

• Excellent customer service.

• Good verbal and written communication skills.

• Knowledge of basic math skills. Flexible schedule. 

• Working knowledge of the internet and proficient in Word, Excel and Outlook.

• Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs.