Retail Hardgoods Assistant

Job Description 

Position Title: Retail Hardgoods Assistant

Location: Niseko, Hakuba and Furano, Japan

Reports to: Store Manager (in each location)
Contract Term: Exact dates TBC - October/November, 2026 - April 2027
Salary: ¥1,800 per hour, starting

About Us 

Rhythm is about creating epic experiences for our customers, which starts with our people. We live by our values and put people first. We take pride in creating working and living environments that foster innovation, adventure, and balance. Working at Rhythm is more than a job, it's an experience you will have forever.

The Role

As a Hardgoods Assistant, you will be a key part of the retail hardgoods team, helping customers find the right ski and snowboard equipment for their needs. You will deliver friendly, knowledgeable service on the shop floor, assist with boot fittings, and support the day-to-day running of the hardgoods department under the guidance of the Hardgoods Supervisor.

Key Responsibilities and Duties 

Boot Fitting & Guest Service

• Greet and engage guests, identifying their needs and ability level to recommend appropriate equipment
• Deliver a positive boot fitting experience, guiding guests through boot selection and basic customisation options including heat molding and footbed fitting
• Describe and promote products clearly, matching recommendations to each guest's goals and budget

Workshop & Operations

• Keep tools, equipment, and the fitting area clean, organised, and ready for use
• Assist with receiving and processing incoming product deliveries and stock allocation
• Maintain a tidy, well-merchandised shop floor and assist with stock presentation
• Follow company policies, safety procedures, and documentation standards in day-to-day tasks
• Support other departments as needed to keep store operations running smoothly

Team & Development

• Work collaboratively with the hardgoods team, taking direction from the Hardgoods Supervisor
• Participate in training sessions and product knowledge updates
• Communicate openly and flag any operational issues or guest concerns to your supervisor

What You Need to Succeed 

Product & Technical Knowledge

• Working knowledge of ski and snowboard boot fitting fundamentals, including basic foot assessment and modifications
• Understanding of ski binding DIN settings and snowboard binding stance configuration
• Familiarity with the store's ski, snowboard, and hardgoods range across key brands and models

Guest Service & Sales

• Experience in a customer-facing role with strong interpersonal skills
• Comfortable making product recommendations and guiding guests through purchases
• A genuine enjoyment of helping people find the right setup

Approach & Mindset

• Organised, detail-oriented, and takes pride in a well-presented workspace
• Eager to learn and develop technical skills over the season
• A team player who takes direction well and communicates openly
• A passion for snowsports

The Perks and Benefits 

As a Rhythm employee, you’ll experience the same legendary hospitality we extend to our guests. We’re passionate about looking after our crew, and here are just a few of the perks you’ll enjoy when you join our team:

• Live, Work, and Play in Paradise: Immerse yourself in one of the world’s top mountain resorts.
• Work with a Legendary Crew: Join a team that’s passionate, fun-loving, and deeply connected to the industry.
• Subsidized Staff Accommodation: Affordable housing options and housing assistance to help you settle in.
• Epic Social Scene: From team ride days and department dinners to staff parties, events, and day trips, our social calendar is packed with opportunities to connect and unwind.
• Wellness and Lifestyle Benefits: Access the Rhythm Wellness program, enjoy free snowsports or bike demos, and take advantage of generous store discounts for you, your friends, and your family.

At Rhythm, we work hard, but we play even harder. If you know anyone who’s worked with us before, they’ll tell you this isn’t just a job- it’s an experience of a lifetime. Our fun, supportive culture is the heart of everything we do because people like you make Rhythm what it is.

Ready to join?

If you have the skills, the flair, and the stoke (enthusiasm) to share, we want to hear from you! Your passion for adventure and alignment with our core values could be the perfect fit for an unforgettable experience.

If you have any specific questions or require further clarification, please don't hesitate to reach out.