Retail is a terrible industry for those who want remote work. Or is it?

When I think of retail jobs, I picture cashiers and stock clerks a small shops and big box retailers. Either way, hardly the kind of jobs that come to mind when a friend or family member asks for suggestions about where they should look if interested in working remotely.

But just because many and perhaps even most jobs in retail must be performed in person, that does not mean that all jobs must be. Every industry has jobs that lend themselves well to remote work, and retail is no exception.

We asked 17 hiring leaders to describe jobs that they think are great for remote workers who want to work in retail.

• Assess Products as a Remote Tester
• Curate E-Commerce as an Online Merchandiser
• Consult Digitally in Window and Door Sales
• Write Descriptions for Online Retail
• Consult on Security Appliance Sales Remotely
• Train Sales Staff Virtually in Retail
• Support E-Commerce Customers Remotely
• Plan Virtual Retail Events Creatively
• Manage Online Retail Specialist Duties
• Analyze Data for Retail Insights
• Create Content for Retail Remotely
• Engage as a Virtual Customer Service Rep
• Serve Customers Remotely at Goldenteak.com
• Create Impactful Retail Content Online
• Support E-Commerce with Tech Expertise
• Manage E-Commerce Operations Remotely
• Style Clients Virtually in Retail

Assess Products as a Remote Tester

Product Tester Working Remotely: Assessing retail products’ usability, quality, and overall experience. They provide retailers and manufacturers with insightful input on how to improve their product offerings and satisfy customers.

Virtual Retail Recruiter: Locating and hiring exceptional candidates for remote retail roles, conducting interviews, and overseeing the employment process. They are essential to the development of remote teams and the expansion of retail businesses.

Online Customer Experience Manager: Improving the usability, functionality, and navigation of websites to ensure a smooth and enjoyable online shopping experience for customers. They examine consumer feedback and behavior to make the online shopping experience better with each visit.

Ben Flynn, Marketing Manager, 88Vape

Curate E-Commerce as an Online Merchandiser

Online Merchandiser: Online merchandisers are responsible for curating and organizing product assortments on e-commerce websites to optimize sales and customer experience. They analyze sales data, monitor inventory levels, and collaborate with marketing teams to create engaging product displays and promotions. With access to e-commerce platforms and merchandising tools, online merchandisers can perform their duties remotely.

Remote Marketing Coordinator: Remote marketing coordinators support retail marketing efforts by assisting with campaign planning, content creation, social media management, and digital advertising. They develop marketing materials, schedule social media posts, and analyze campaign performance metrics. This role can be performed remotely using marketing software and collaboration tools to coordinate with marketing teams.

Remote Inventory Planner: Remote inventory planners manage inventory levels, forecast demand, and optimize stock levels to ensure product availability and minimize overstock or stockouts. They analyze sales data, monitor inventory turnover rates, and collaborate with suppliers to manage replenishment orders. This role is conducive to remote work with the use of inventory management software and communication tools to coordinate with internal teams and suppliers.

Kelli Anderson, Career Coach, Texas General Insurance

Consult Digitally in Window and Door Sales

Remote work has long since become a key driver of innovation and customer engagement, especially in the windows and doors industry. We’ve identified three roles that thrive in the remote environment.

First, the Digital Sales Consultants. These remote warriors use technology to bridge the gap between our innovative products and potential customers. Through virtual consultations, they provide personalized advice to navigate our diverse range of windows and doors.

Then, we have the Customer Experience Advocates. These specialists are the frontline heroes, offering support and solutions to customers navigating our online stores. Their role is pivotal in ensuring a frictionless and enjoyable shopping journey.

Lastly, there’s the Content Strategists for Digital Platforms. Behind the scenes, they craft the narrative of our brand across digital channels. From engaging product descriptions that bring our products to life to informative blog posts and captivating social media content.

Alexander Havkin, Regional Sales & Project Manager, Ecoline Windows

Write Descriptions for Online Retail

Online Product Description Writer: Remote workers in this job write interesting and informative product descriptions for e-commerce websites, assisting clients in making informed purchasing decisions while also improving retail enterprises’ online visibility—all from the comfort of their own homes.

Remote Inventory Coordinator: This position involves managing inventory levels, monitoring stock movements, and coordinating with suppliers and fulfillment centers via digital platforms, allowing remote workers to efficiently oversee inventory operations for online retail businesses without having to be present on-site.

Remote Sales Support Specialist: This position assists the sales team by managing customer inquiries, processing orders, and ensuring smooth transactions via online platforms, allowing remote employees to contribute to retail operations from anywhere with internet access.

Phil Collins, Sales and Marketing Manager, Polymaster Group

Consult on Security Appliance Sales Remotely

Within the security appliance sector, the adaptation to remote work has unveiled exciting roles ideal for individuals keen on merging retail with the autonomy of working from any location.

Remote Sales Consultants are crucial, connecting with clients through digital means to discuss their security requirements and suggest suitable products. This role demands comprehensive product knowledge and a knack for fostering digital customer relationships.

Customer Support Specialists form the core of our post-purchase support, offering remote assistance for troubleshooting, guidance on product usage, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Their role is vital for upholding our commitment to excellence in customer service from afar.

Lastly, Digital Marketing Analysts spearhead our online retail strategy, dissecting data on market trends, customer preferences, and the effectiveness of our marketing efforts. Their insights are instrumental in tailoring our digital presence to better attract and engage our target market.

Eugene Klimaszewski, President, Mammoth Security

Train Sales Staff Virtually in Retail

Remote jobs within the retail industry that stand out include the role of a Virtual Retail Trainer, where you develop and deliver training programs for sales staff and customer service teams, all via online platforms.

There’s also the unique position of Social Media Manager for Retail, where you curate and manage a brand’s presence on various social platforms, engaging with the audience and promoting products.

Finally, a role that’s gaining importance is that of an Online User Experience (UX) Researcher, tasked with understanding customer interactions with an e-commerce site and providing recommendations for improvements.

Each of these roles not only supports the retail business in reaching its objectives but also offers remote workers the chance to have a significant impact on the company’s success from anywhere in the world.

Ian Sells, CEO, Million Dollar Sellers

Support E-Commerce Customers Remotely

Not the easiest industry to work remotely, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t good options if you’re looking hard for something fully remote. Off the top of my head, you could look into being an E-commerce Customer Service Representative, a Remote Sales Associate, or a Virtual Visual Merchandiser. 

E-commerce Service Representatives basically assist customers with inquiries, orders, and concerns via email, chat, or phone for an online retail store—for those shoppers that are still looking for a bit of a human touch in their online shopping experience. 

Remote Sales Associates are somewhat similar, but with a bit of a different focus as they use various communication channels like email, phone calls, or online chat to promote and sell products or services. Usually, these people work for companies that operate solely online or support the sales efforts of traditional retail stores by managing online inquiries and purchases.

Visual Merchandisers, on the other hand, are more designer meets retail expert. They are responsible for creating visually appealing displays to attract customers and drive sales, something that’s pretty simple to do remotely.

Dragos Badea, CEO, Yarooms

Plan Virtual Retail Events Creatively

For those interested in remote work within the retail industry, becoming a Virtual Event Planner for retail brands offers a unique and creative outlet. In this role, you’d be responsible for organizing virtual product launches, online shopping events, and interactive customer engagement activities.

Another fascinating job is that of a Remote Retail Analyst, where you track sales performance, monitor retail trends, and provide actionable insights to enhance business strategies.

Additionally, the position of an Affiliate Marketing Manager for e-commerce platforms is increasingly popular, focusing on developing and managing affiliate programs to boost online sales through strategic partnerships.

These roles require innovative thinking, strong organizational skills, and the ability to engage with both internal teams and external partners effectively, making them perfect for adaptable and driven remote workers.

Brooke Webber, Head of Marketing, Ninja Patches

Manage Online Retail Specialist Duties

For remote workers looking to dive into the retail sector, an Online Retail Specialist role is an excellent start. In this position, you manage an online store’s inventory, ensuring products are accurately listed and stock levels are maintained.

Another intriguing role is that of a Virtual Sales Consultant, where you assist customers through chat or video calls, offering personalized shopping advice and product recommendations.

Lastly, the position of E-commerce Marketing Manager stands out; it’s focused on driving online sales through digital marketing strategies, SEO optimization, and social media engagement.

Each of these roles offers a unique way to contribute to the retail industry’s digital landscape, combining the convenience of working from home with the dynamic nature of retail.

Sturgeon Christie, CEO, Second Skin Audio

Analyze Data for Retail Insights

Working remotely in the retail sector, one could excel as a Data Analyst for Retail, where you interpret sales data, customer behavior, and market trends to inform business strategies. This role is critical for understanding what drives consumer purchases and how to enhance the shopping experience.

Another vital position is that of an E-commerce Project Manager, overseeing online store projects from conception to launch, and coordinating with web developers, designers, and content teams.

Lastly, a Supply Chain Coordinator working remotely can manage logistics, coordinate with suppliers, and ensure timely delivery of products to warehouses or directly to customers.

These roles require a mix of technical know-how, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently, making them ideal for remote work environments.

Roman Zrazhevskiy, Founder & CEO, MIRA Safety

Create Content for Retail Remotely

Remote work in retail opens up opportunities such as being a Customer Support Representative, where you handle customer inquiries, returns, and complaints via phone or email, ensuring a positive shopping experience.

Another suitable job is a Remote Merchandiser, who analyzes sales data to advise on product placement and inventory levels, even though the work is done from a distance.

Then there’s the role of a Content Creator for Retail, responsible for producing engaging product descriptions, blog posts, and marketing materials to attract and retain customers.

Each job plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between online retail businesses and their customers, emphasizing the importance of communication, analytical skills, and creativity.

Sergey Taver, Marketing Manager, Precision Watches

Engage as a Virtual Customer Service Rep

Working as a virtual customer service representative allows individuals to work from home while still providing assistance and support to customers. This job typically involves responding to customer inquiries through phone, email, or chat and helping resolve any issues or concerns they may have. Remote workers in this role can often set their own schedules and have the flexibility to work from anywhere with an internet connection.

An online retail merchandiser is responsible for creating and maintaining a visually appealing and user-friendly website for a retail company. This job involves uploading product images, writing descriptions, and organizing products in a way that encourages sales. Remote workers can excel in this role by having strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and knowledge of e-commerce platforms.

With the rise of social media, many retail companies are looking for remote workers to manage their online presence and engage with customers on various platforms. As a social media manager, individuals can work from anywhere while creating content, responding to comments and messages, and analyzing data to improve the company’s online presence. This job requires creativity, strong writing skills, and knowledge of social media trends.

Ryan Nelson, Founder, RentalRealEstate

Serve Customers Remotely at Goldenteak.com

From my experience at Goldenteak.com since 1996, I’ve seen the importance of well-designed remote roles within the retail sector, especially in areas related to customer service, digital marketing, and inventory management.

Firstly, customer service roles are incredibly well-suited for remote work. At Goldenteak, we’ve leveraged technology to provide our team with the tools they need to assist customers from anywhere. For instance, handling inquiries, processing returns, or providing product information can easily be done remotely, enhancing flexibility and employee satisfaction. From dealing with freight shipments to managing returns, remote customer service representatives play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations and high customer satisfaction levels.

Then, there’s digital marketing, an area crucial for any retail business’s growth. Our team members, working remotely, have been pivotal in creating engaging content for our outdoor furniture products, managing our social media platforms, and optimizing our search engine presence. This not only draws in customers but effectively communicates our brand’s value and offerings, directly influencing our sales and market presence.

Lastly, inventory management is another function seamlessly transitioning to remote work. Utilizing cloud-based inventory management software, our team can track stock levels, place orders with suppliers, and forecast demand from anywhere. This ability to maintain oversight without needing a physical presence in a warehouse or office streamlines operations and reduces overhead costs.

Through these examples, it’s clear that remote work not only benefits employees seeking flexibility but also positively impacts operational efficiency and customer satisfaction in the retail sector.

Elsa Rao, President, GoldenTeak

Create Impactful Retail Content Online

Remote work has recently been reshaping roles in retail, and here are some that would be great for those looking to work in the field.

E-commerce Content Creator. This role focuses on crafting engaging product descriptions, blogs, and social media content to enhance online visibility and sales. Leveraging SEO and creative storytelling, it drives impactful content creation.

Online Customer Service Advisor. As the digital interface between retailers and customers, this role prioritizes excellent communication skills to ensure a satisfying online shopping experience. It emphasizes empathy and a solution-oriented approach.

Retail Digital Marketing Specialist. Specialists in this area strategize and execute online marketing campaigns to drive brand awareness and sales. From SEO to email marketing and social media engagement, this role innovates retail’s digital presence, reflecting a commitment to digital advancement.

Shawn Manaher, Founder, The Content Authority

Support E-Commerce with Tech Expertise

A role that suits remote workers with a knack for technology and customer service is the E-commerce Technology Support Specialist. This position involves assisting customers with technical issues related to online shopping platforms, ensuring a seamless shopping experience. 

Additionally, the job of a Content Strategy Manager for online retail is crucial for those who excel in storytelling and brand messaging. This role focuses on creating and executing content plans that engage customers and drive brand loyalty across digital channels. 

Finally, the Remote Visual Merchandiser position allows for creative individuals to design compelling product displays and promotional visuals for online stores, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and user experience. 

These positions blend technical, creative, and strategic skills, offering remote workers a diverse range of opportunities to contribute to the success of e-commerce operations.

Michael Nemeroff, CEO & Co-Founder, Rush Order Tees

Manage E-Commerce Operations Remotely

Here are three retail jobs that seem well-suited for remote work arrangements:

E-commerce Manager – Overseeing online retail operations, such as website management, order fulfillment, and analytics, can often be done remotely. Managing inventories, digital content, and shipping logistics with a remote team allows for flexible work.

Social Media Marketer – Promoting sales and building the brand through strategic social media campaigns allows for remote work from anywhere. Virtual networking and analyzing engagement metrics can easily be done off-site.

Customer Service Representative – Many retailers have shifted their customer support teams to remote work, answering customer inquiries, complaints, or questions virtually through online ticketing systems or video calls. This provides a flexible retail role.

These positions emphasize virtual coordination and digital oversight of retail processes over physical store operations. Technology enabling dispersed collaboration across departments has made them realistic for those seeking retail career opportunities that accommodate remote workstyles. Commitment to consistent online-offline customer experiences remains core.

Lyle Solomon, Principal Attorney, Oak View Law Group

Style Clients Virtually in Retail

Remote work in retail reveals roles that mesh surprisingly well with the digital landscape. One standout is the virtual stylist position; it’s like being a personal shopper, but you get to harness the power of digital platforms to tailor wardrobes for clients far and wide. Then, there’s the role of a digital content creator, where creativity blooms. This job allows you to craft engaging product stories and visuals that resonate with our online community, truly bringing our sportswear to life. Lastly, customer experience specialists who operate remotely have a unique edge. They offer personalized support and build meaningful relationships with customers, all from the comfort of their homes. These roles fit snugly into the retail sector’s remote work model and embody the spirit of innovation and connection that we value.

Jay Barton, CEO & Founder, ASRV