Work in the heart of Washington, D.C. at Abe’s Gifts, a busy souvenir and gift shop that serves visitors from across the country. Abe’s has three store locations on 13th Street, F Street, and at L’Enfant Plaza, all close to major landmarks and attractions.

This is a retail job in a fast-paced tourist environment. Participants help customers, restock shelves, set up displays, operate cash registers, and keep the store clean and organized. A big part of the job is working during scheduled school group visits, when large groups of children come through the store quickly. Participants greet groups politely, stay alert to what is happening around them, watch merchandise areas carefully, and clean up and reset the store after each visit.

Participants rotate between the three store locations based on business needs. Washington, D.C. is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, with free museums, historic landmarks, and a diverse international community. This is a good fit for participants who enjoy working with people and want to experience life in a major U.S. city.

Retail Salesperson, Cashier

1. Friendly, energetic, and professional attitude, with the ability to adjust to changing tasks and customer needs.

2. Advanced English skills to communicate clearly with customers, coworkers, and supervisors.

3. Able to lift and unpack heavy boxes (up to 50 pounds / 22 kg), climb ladders, bend, and stand or walk for long hours each shift. Must not have allergies to dust, cleaning chemicals, or vacuuming; cleaning and restocking tasks are required every day.

4. Comfortable performing repetitive tasks such as folding, labeling, and organizing merchandise. Basic math skills to handle cash, process payments, and calculate change accurately.

5. Available to work on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, which are the busiest days.

Washington, D.C. has a high cost of living. By accepting this position, you confirm that you have reviewed CHI’s Cost of Living.

Disclaimer:

• Responsible for arranging and maintaining your own housing for the duration of the program.
• Willing to climb ladders to stock and reach merchandise.
• Willing to clean, organize, and remove rubbish as assigned.
• Patient, detail-oriented, and able to work well as part of a team while staying professional.
• Not every task is listed in the job description. You are expected to follow directions from supervisors and complete duties as assigned, even if they are not specifically mentioned.

Job description:

Abe’s Gifts serves school groups during educational visits to Washington, D.C., offering 30-minute scheduled shopping appointments. Participants help keep the store running smoothly and make sure visitors receive friendly, professional service in a fast-paced, high-traffic environment. This job requires energy, patience, and close attention to detail. Participants handle customer service, stocking, cleaning, and display duties while supporting the team.

Customer Service:

Welcome and assist all visitors, with a focus on school groups, teachers, and families Provide polite, helpful service so visitors have a good experience Guide visitors to products, explain prices, and suggest items Watch merchandise areas carefully to prevent theft and keep the store safe Stay patient and calm during busy, high-volume periods

Store Operations:

Operate the cash register (POS system) and handle cash and credit payments accurately Restock and organize merchandise to keep displays full and neat Steam, fold, label, and prepare clothing and souvenir items for sale Lift and unpack heavy boxes (up to 50 pounds / 22 kg) and climb ladders safely when restocking Keep the store clean at all times, including dusting, vacuuming, changing trash, cleaning shelves, and cleaning restrooms. Re-fold and reset displays throughout the day as customers handle items

Administrative and Event Support:

Help with daily cash drawer counts, check sales receipts, and complete end-of-day paperwork Help set up and take down for school group arrivals and special promotions Communicate clearly with supervisors to solve problems and support store operations Abe’s operates three stores, located on 13th Street, F Street, and at L’Enfant Plaza. Participants rotate between the three locations based on business needs and scheduling. This job involves standing and moving for 8 or more hours each shift, frequent bending, lifting, and repetitive tasks. The store can become very crowded during spring school trips and holidays, requiring patience, focus, and strong communication.