Big 5 Careers | Be Part of a National Sports Retail Chain

If you have ever walked through aisles of sports gear, sneakers, or camping supplies and felt right at home, you have probably already considered Big 5 Careers without even realizing it. The stores have that old-school sporting goods energy where every shelf is packed, every product has a purpose, and the team behind the counter actually knows their stuff. It is the kind of place where working feels more like being part of a small crew than a faceless chain.

The environment is steady without being slow. From unloading gear in the back to helping a family pick out cleats, every shift has a rhythm to it. Whether you are into sports, retail, or just want something stable that does not require wearing a headset all day, Big 5 offers a setting where you can get things done and still keep it real. There is training, there is structure, but there is also space to be yourself while doing a job that has clear expectations.

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Big 5 Careers

Big 5 Sporting Goods – Overview of the Company

Big 5 Sporting Goods was founded in 1955 and has grown into one of the leading sporting goods retailers in the western United States. With over 400 stores across states like California, Arizona, Nevada, and Washington, the company is known for offering affordable sports equipment, apparel, and outdoor gear to a broad range of customers. What started as a military surplus store has evolved into a full-scale retail operation that supports local teams, families, and everyday athletes.

What makes the Big 5 stand out is its consistency. The stores are stocked with a wide range of products, but the service always feels local and grounded. Whether it is helping someone find a new pair of hiking boots or managing a weekend sale event, employees play a hands-on role in making sure each store runs like it should. From the sales floor to corporate offices, the company keeps its focus on teamwork, product knowledge, and delivering real value to the people who walk through the door every day.

Types of Jobs 

The company hires for everything from entry-level retail to logistics and leadership, with clear expectations and room to grow. These are a few roles.

  • Sales Associate
    Sales Associates work directly with customers to help them find products, understand features, and check sizes or specs. This role is fast-paced and hands-on, especially during sales or sports seasons.
  • Cashier
    Cashiers handle transactions, returns, and gift cards at the front counter. They are expected to move quickly and keep things organized, especially during busy hours or promotions.
  • Floor Support Staff
    This role focuses on cleaning, organizing, and restocking areas that get heavy foot traffic. You might be working the shoe wall one day and helping with weights or camping gear the next.
  • Stock Clerk
    Stock Clerks receive deliveries, break down boxes, and label merchandise. This job requires attention to detail and a steady pace.
  • Inventory Assistant
    Inventory Assistants help track product counts and flag missing or damaged items. At this company, this role is key to keeping shelves full and organized.
  • Shoe Department Associate
    You help customers find the right size, understand support or performance features, and keep displays clean and up to date.
  • Shift Lead
    Shift Leads are responsible for daily operations during their scheduled hours. They help assign tasks, keep team energy steady, and manage closing or opening routines.
  • Assistant Manager
    Assistant Managers help with scheduling, training, and managing stock levels. They support the store manager by taking on responsibility during busy hours or key weekends.
  • Warehouse Picker
    Pickers collect the correct products for outgoing shipments to individual stores. This job involves speed, accuracy, and physical stamina.
  • Forklift Operator
    Certified team members operate forklifts to move heavy pallets safely and efficiently. They also assist with loading and unloading trucks.
  • Seasonal Sales Associate
    You will assist with high-traffic shifts, especially weekends and evenings, helping customers and keeping displays in shape.
  • Holiday Floor Support
    This role includes organizing gift displays, restocking shelves, and helping with gift card sales or exchanges.

Benefits & Salary Details

Depending on your role and hours, the company offers a comprehensive benefits package. A few of them are:

  • Employee discount on store merchandise
  • Flexible shifts for students or second jobs
  • Health and dental coverage for full-time workers
  • Paid time off for eligible employees
  • Regular performance reviews and raise opportunities

Additionally, starting pay depends on your location, experience, and the type of role you’re applying for. Average salary ranges:

  • Sales Associate: $14 to $16 per hour
  • Cashier: $14 to $15 per hour
  • Stock Clerk: $15 to $17 per hour
  • Assistant Manager: $19 to $22 per hour
  • Store Manager: $52000 to $60000 per year
  • Warehouse and Logistics: $16 to $20 per hour

Eligibility Criteria

Getting hired at Big 5 is more about your mindset than your resume. Here comes the criteria.

  • The minimum age to apply for most in-store jobs is 18 years old. This is because many positions involve operating equipment, handling stock, or working during closing hours.
  • Before your first shift, you will be asked to complete standard hiring forms and submit documents that confirm your identity and authorization in the United States.
  • If you are applying for an entry-level job like a sales associate or cashier, what you bring in terms of attitude and reliability matters more than formal education.
  • For management jobs, a high school diploma is usually expected. Some corporate roles may ask for a degree, but only if the job clearly calls for specific skills like accounting or marketing.
  • If you apply to work in the stockroom or warehouse, the work is more physically demanding. Be prepared for lifting up to 40 pounds regularly and being on your feet for most of your shift.
  • Hiring managers here look for people who are steady, reliable, and focused. You do not need to know everything about every product. You just need to be willing to learn and take direction.

Application Process for Big 5 Careers

Getting started with Big 5 Careers is pretty simple if you know where to look and what to expect. The application isn’t complicated, but putting a little care into it can make you stand out faster.

  • Your first step is to visit the official careers portal. You can also find listings on platforms like Indeed or Glassdoor, but applying through the company’s own site often works best.
  • Once you choose a role, you’ll fill out an online form with your details. It’s straightforward, and most first-time applicants can finish in under 10 minutes.
  • Be ready to enter your basic contact info, weekly availability, previous retail or warehouse experience, emergency contacts, and references, as well as an optional resume upload.
  • After submitting your application, it helps to follow up in person. Not every store requires it, but it definitely speeds things up if the hiring team knows who you are.
  • If the manager is hiring, they might call you or set up an in-person interview within a few days.
  • Once hired, you’ll go through a short training period.
Summary

Working at the Big 5 is all about balance. The structure is reliable, the team is hands-on, and there is a steady pace that keeps you active without burning you out. Whether you are just starting out in retail or looking for long-term growth, it offers a mix of support, consistency, and real opportunities to learn. From floor staff to management, the company focuses on getting the basics right and giving each team member space to build something stable.

FAQs

Can I work at Big 5 if I have never worked in retail before?

Yes. Most entry-level roles are open to people without experience, and managers will train you on what to do.

Do I need to know about sports equipment before applying?

No. You will learn about products on the job. Being open to learning is more important than already knowing everything.

What should I wear if I go to a Big 5 store to follow up on my application?

A clean, casual outfit is fine. You do not need formal clothes, just make sure you look presentable and confident.

Is it possible to work part-time while going to school?

Yes. Many team members are students, and their stores often offer flexible scheduling designed to work around classes.

Are there employee discounts at Big 5?

Yes. Both part-time and full-time employees receive discounts on store merchandise during their time with the company.

How long does the hiring process usually take?

Most stores respond within a week. Following up in person after applying online can help speed up the process.

Do warehouse and in-store jobs have the same application process?

Not exactly. Warehouse roles may include extra steps like equipment checks or physical readiness reviews.

Can I apply to more than one Big 5 location?

Yes. If there are multiple stores near you, it is okay to apply separately to each one.
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