Have you always felt most at home among the trees or on the trail? Does the thought of a desk job make you feel trapped? If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who wants to turn your passion into a career, you’ve come to the right place.
REI Careers, the nation’s largest consumer co-op providing outdoor gear and services, is always on the hunt for people who share their love of adventure. With over 15,000 employees across 153 stores in 36 states, REI offers opportunities in retail, corporate, and distribution center roles that will get you outside and active.
Whether you want to inspire customers as a sales associate, guide outdoor adventures as part of the REI Adventures team, or work behind the scenes to help ship products to stores, you can craft a meaningful career that fuels your passion for the outdoors. Keep reading to explore the opportunities and find your perfect role. The adventure starts here!
Introduction to REI and Its Company Culture
REI is a popular outdoor gear and apparel retail company known for its great company culture. REI employees, called “REI-ites,” love working for the co-op because of REI’s dedication to work-life balance and enabling employees to get outside.
A Co-op Focused on the Outdoors
REI is organized as a consumer cooperative, commonly called a co-op, owned by over 18 million members. As an outdoor co-op, REI’s mission is to inspire, educate and outfit people for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship. REI invests heavily in employee benefits and training related to outdoor activities and adventure.
Great Work-Life Balance
REI believes in enabling employees to lead balanced lives. REI offers generous paid time off, as well as “Yay Days” – extra paid time off to enjoy outdoor activities. REI also offers flexible work schedules so employees can avoid traffic or take advantage of good weather. REI’s headquarters even has showers so employees can bike or run to work.
Opportunities for Advancement
REI provides many opportunities for career growth through outdoor education and leadership programs. REI offers tuition reimbursement and career path programs to help employees advance their careers. REI believes in promoting from within and over two-thirds of open positions are filled by current employees.
An Inclusive Culture
REI works to create an inclusive culture where employees feel empowered and able to be their authentic selves. REI offers employee resource groups, unconscious bias training, and benefits for same-sex and domestic partners. REI believes diversity fosters more innovation and creativity.
REI’s dedication to its employees, members, and the outdoors makes it a beloved company with a very appealing culture. If you love the outdoors and retail, REI just might be the perfect place for you. Check out REI’s career site to search job openings and start your outdoor adventure.
Benefits of Working at REI: Compensation, Perks and Work Environment
Working at REI comes with some awesome benefits that will fuel your passion for adventure. REI believes that when their employees are at their best, the company thrives. That’s why they offer generous compensation and perks to support your wellbeing.
REI provides competitive pay and benefits for all positions. They evaluate pay annually and make adjustments to remain competitive in the market. REI also matches up to 3% of your salary for contributions to your retirement plan. Medical, dental and vision insurance are offered to all employees. REI pays 100% of the premiums for employees and offers affordable coverage for families as well.
REI encourages their employees to get outside by offering generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays. Full-time employees receive 3 weeks of PTO in their first year, increasing over time. REI also offers up to 8 paid national holidays each year. Want to take an extra long weekend to go camping? No problem! REI’s flexible paid time off policy allows you to take the time you need.
Working at REI means being part of a cooperative, purpose-driven culture. REI invests in their employees’ growth and development at every level of the organization. REI University offers opportunities to build skills and advance your career. REI also promotes from within, so there’s room for career growth over the long run.
The perks of working at REI extend to an awesome work environment and company culture. REI outfits their offices and stores with amenities to support employee wellbeing, including showers, bike racks, and gear storage. Many locations also have fitness centers, climbing walls, and yoga rooms available for employees to use.
Want to work for a purpose-driven company that fuels your passion for the outdoors? Check out REI’s career site to find your perfect role. REI could be the ideal place to blend your career ambitions and your love for adventure.
Open Positions at REI: Retail, Corporate, Distribution and More
If you love the outdoors, an REI career could be perfect for you. REI, which stands for Recreational Equipment Inc., is a leader in the outdoor recreation industry. They offer job opportunities in areas like:
Retail
REI has over 150 retail stores across the U.S. where outdoor enthusiasts can buy gear and apparel. Retail positions at REI include sales specialists, cashiers, and REI Careers managers. As an REI retail employee, you’ll help customers find the right equipment for their adventures, share your product knowledge, and foster REI’s community spirit. Retail roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Corporate
REI’s corporate headquarters is located in Kent, Washington. Corporate jobs include roles in areas like marketing, finance, human resources, and more. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, you could land an exciting corporate position at REI’s headquarters. Help promote REI’s brand, support store operations, or contribute to the company’s business success.
Distribution
REI operates distribution centers across the U.S. to keep their stores stocked. Distribution center roles involve receiving, sorting, and shipping inventory. Tasks include loading and unloading trucks, operating forklifts and conveyor belts, and REI Careers ensuring orders are accurate and on time. Distribution jobs typically require a high school diploma and the ability to lift and move heavy materials.
REI offers competitive pay and excellent benefits for both part-time and full-time employees, including generous product and service discounts, health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company and help others enjoy the outdoors, explore REI’s career site for current openings in retail, corporate, distribution, and more. With hard work and a positive attitude, you can build a successful career at REI.
How to Apply for Jobs at REI: Tips for Creating a Standout Application
To land an amazing job at REI, you’ll want to put together an application that highlights why you’re a great fit for the company’s culture and values. Here are some tips to make your application stand out:
Focus on REI’s mission REI Careers and values.
REI is all about getting people outside and promoting environmental stewardship. In your cover letter and interview, express your passion for outdoor recreation and interest in sustainability. Discuss any relevant hobbies, causes you support, or past work experience. Show how you would contribute to REI’s mission to inspire, educate and outfit people for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship.
Apply for jobs you’re truly interested in.
REI can tell if you’re genuinely excited about the work. Only apply for positions that match your skills and interests. Do some research on REI’s different career paths so you can speak knowledgeably about the jobs that motivate you. Enthusiasm and authenticity will make you a top candidate.
Emphasize experience.
While a college degree can be helpful, REI cares more about relevant experience. Discuss any outdoor leadership experience, retail customer REI Careers service work, or roles where you gained transferable skills. If you lack direct experience, consider volunteering or participating in outdoor programs to start building your experience. REI may value passion and potential over a traditional resume.
Mention the co-op.
REI is a cooperative, owned by its members, so its business model is unique. Express your interest in REI’s co-op structure and a desire to become a member. Discuss how you would contribute to the co-op’s success through your role. A basic understanding of how REI operates will impress the interviewer.
Following these tips will help you submit an application that resonates with REI’s company culture. With authentic enthusiasm for the outdoors and REI’s mission, you’ll be on your way to landing an amazing job at one of the most respected retailers in the world. Best of luck!
Next Steps: Follow REI on Social Media and Set Up Job Alerts
Now that you know more about the exciting career opportunities at REI, here are some tips to help land your dream job:
- Follow REI on social media like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Engaging with their posts is a great way to show your passion for the brand and stay up-to-date with the latest jobs and company news. When positions you’re interested in become available, you’ll be among the first to know.
- Set up job alerts on the REI careers website and on sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Enter keywords like “REI” along with REI Careers roles you’re interested in, like “retail sales specialist” or “marketing manager.” You’ll receive an email notification as soon as new jobs are posted that match your search. This ensures you can apply as early as possible, before the competition increases.
- Build your network by connecting with current REI employees on LinkedIn. Express your interest in the company and ask if they have any advice for applicants. Some may even be willing to provide a recommendation for you if a suitable job opens up. Having an internal advocate is invaluable.
- Polish your resume to highlight any relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments that would make you a great fit for REI. Emphasize things like a passion for outdoor recreation, sales or marketing achievements, and strong REI Careers customer service orientation. Your resume is your first chance to capture the hiring manager’s attention, so make it shine!
- Practice your interview skills and prepare examples that show how you embody REI’s core values, like passion for life outdoors, commitment to inclusion, and culture of purposeful service. Discuss why their mission resonates with you and your vision for contributing to their success.
With some advance planning and persistence, you’ll put yourself in the best position to land an exciting new career helping others experience life outdoors. Keep the faith—your perfect job at REI may be just around the corner!
FAQS
Have some questions about starting a career with REI? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers:
What types of jobs does REI offer?
REI offers a variety of jobs for people passionate about the outdoors. Some options include:
- Retail sales associates – Help customers in stores find gear and clothing. No experience required and on-the-job training is provided.
- Outdoor instructors – Lead recreational REI Careers activities like kayaking, rock climbing, cycling and more. Typically requires relevant certifications and experience.
- Warehouse associates – Work in REI distribution centers shipping products to stores and customers. Physically demanding but no experience needed.
- Corporate roles – REI’s headquarters hires for REI Careers positions like marketing managers, web developers, accountants, and more. Usually requires a college degree and relevant work experience.
Do I get an employee discount?
Yes, all REI employees receive a generous employee discount on REI gear and clothing, as well as special pricing on REI outdoor trips and classes. The exact discount amount depends on your position, but most retail and field staff receive 50% off REI brand items and 30-40% off everything else.
What is the pay and compensation like?
REI aims to provide living wages and good benefits for all positions. Pay will vary based on factors like job title, experience, education, and location. Retail sales associates earn an average of $12 to $20 per hour. Instructors and corporate staff earn $40,000 to over $100,000 per year.
All employees have access to benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and more. REI also offers opportunities for career growth over time.
How do I apply for a job at REI?
The best way to apply for a job at REI is on REI.com/jobs. There you can view open positions, create a profile, and apply for any jobs that match your interests and qualifications. You will need to submit an online application and may go through phone/video interviews and potentially an in-person interview for some roles.
Seasonal positions are posted in the spring and summer, while year-round jobs are posted ongoing. Many people start out in seasonal or part-time roles and move into permanent positions over time. With a passion for the outdoors and great customer service, you can build a rewarding long-term career at REI.
Conclusion
The great outdoors is calling, so why not pursue a career that fuels your passion for adventure? REI offers the chance to blend work and play in an environment surrounded by fellow outdoor enthusiasts. With competitive pay and benefits, REI careers allow you to make a living in a field you care deeply about.
Whether working retail, corporate, distribution or stewardship, you’ll be part of a co-op community that’s all about improving lives through outdoor experiences. So take that first step, explore the career options, and start your adventure. The mountains are waiting – go find your place in them!