Autumn Leaves is an independent bookstore nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes region of Ithaca, NY. We believe that freedom of knowledge is crucial and independent bookstores are vital to their local communities. Autumn Leaves offers critically important radical books and media that challenge traditional ways of thinking. Our two-story location features over 60,000 used and new books across a wide variety of topics, and we have proudly served our community for over 30 years. We are owned and operated by PM Press, an independent, radical publisher dedicated to delivering bold political ideas and vital stories.

 

We strongly encourage you to visit our websites before applying:

https://www.autumnleavesithaca.com/

https://pmpress.org/

 

Autumn Leaves is proud to be a certified living wage employer in Tompkins County. This is a full-time salaried position (40 hours/week) with flexible PTO/vacation and an employee discount.

Autumn Leaves/PM Press operates within a cooperative business model and does not follow a traditional leadership structure. Our ideal candidate is an independently motivated individual with book-selling experience who can assess the needs of the business and plan accordingly.

 

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Work autonomously without the need for constant supervision or guidance beyond initial training period.

• Learn open/close procedures, balance register/finalize paperwork, and complete transactions at the point of sale system

• Keep the store neat and tidy by putting away books, re-stocking, organizing titles, and creating impactful visual displays

• Complete various cleaning tasks, including common areas, restrooms, and other designated spaces

• Manage garbage and recycling disposal, ensuring proper sorting and collection

• Perform general building maintenance/upkeep; coordinate with contractors or repair services for tasks that require external expertise, scheduling appointments and following-up as needed.

• Create a welcoming environment by engaging with customers and sharing your love of books through relevant recommendations/discussion

• Be knowledgeable about radical politics and literature and learn about titles published by PM Press

• Be able to communicate clearly, listen actively and promote a culture of active collaboration

 

Requirements:

• Must be available to work nights and weekends and commit to a schedule that adapts to the business's needs, including seasonal changes (e.g., holidays, tourism).

• Ability to work autonomously without constant supervision.

• This is a physically demanding job requiring the ability to stand for up to 8-10 hours a day, and perform frequent bending and reaching.

• Ability to lift up to 40 lb boxes of books, including carrying them up and down multiple flights of stairs, and perform other strenuous tasks as needed.

 

Autumn Leaves/PM Press is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. PM Press does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, economic status, religion, creed, sexual orientation, disability, union activity, marital or parental status, citizenship, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, size, age, military or veteran status, arrest record, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

 

Work Hours, Wages, and Benefits:

• $42,000 salary per year with an internally equitable pay rate.

• Structured raises based on term of employment.

• 401 (k) Employer Match

• Employee discount.

• 40 hours per week, with some nights and weekends as necessary.

• 10 days of paid vacation per year.

 

Introductory Period:

All new hires will undergo a 90-day introductory period to assess mutual fit between the candidate and the company. This period allows both the employee and the employer to evaluate performance, compatibility, and expectations, ensuring a successful long-term partnership and a smooth transition into the role.

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To Apply:

• Fill out an application below

• Submit Cover Letter*

• Submit Resume

 

*A cover letter is required to apply for this position. Please use this as an opportunity to show us your personality, share why you are excited about the role, and explain how your experiences connect with what we do.