April Bast
Vinton,IA
Summary
Dynamic and reliable professional with a strong background in customer service and teamwork, honed at a wide variety of positions. Proven ability to enhance customer satisfaction through effective communication and problem-solving. Skilled in inventory management and maintaining high standards of cleanliness, consistently achieving operational efficiency and positive client experiences.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Associate
Fab Finds Shoppe
Parkersburg, IA
12.2025 - Current
- Assisted customers in product selection, providing exceptional service and support.
- Managed inventory levels, ensuring stock availability and organization.
- Processed transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain store cleanliness and visual merchandising standards.
Cook/Waitress
Stinky's Bar & Grill
Aplington, IA
01.2025 - 04.2025
- Prepared and cooked menu items according to established recipes and quality standards.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen workspace to ensure food safety compliance.
- Assisted in inventory management by tracking and ordering kitchen supplies as needed.
- Collaborated with team members to coordinate food preparation during high-volume service periods.
- Executed daily specials by creatively adapting existing recipes to enhance customer satisfaction.
Retail Co-Worker
Kwik Star
Story City, IA
09.2023 - 09.2024
- Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries to enhance shopping experience.
- Operated cash register, processed transactions accurately, and managed cash handling procedures.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of sales floor to promote positive store environment.
- Stocked shelves and replenished inventory levels to ensure product availability for customers.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve daily sales goals and improve store performance.
Office/Meat Wrapper
Williams Locker
Williams, IA
2021 - 2024
- Wrapped and labeled meat products for display and take-home, ensuring product quality and freshness.
- Assisted in inventory management by tracking stock levels and organizing storage areas.
- Maintained cleanliness of work area, adhering to health and safety regulations consistently.
- Collaborated with team members to enhance workflow efficiency during high volume times.
- Operated meat processing equipment safely and effectively, following operational guidelines.
- Achieved high customer satisfaction by effectively managing walk-in sales and processing phone, email, and app orders. Improved order accuracy through diligent handling of cut sheet submissions.
Office/Meat Wrapper
Gilbertville Locker
Gilbertville, IA
02.2023 - 09.2023
- Executed wrapping and labeling of meat products for display, ensuring optimal product quality and freshness.
- Implemented systematic tracking of stock levels and organized storage solutions to enhance inventory management processes.
- Ensured cleanliness of work area by rigorously adhering to health and safety regulations.
- Coordinated efforts with team members to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency during high-demand periods.
- Executed safe and effective operation of meat processing equipment to ensure adherence to established protocols.
- Assisted customers with inquiries and product selection, ensuring satisfaction and informed purchasing decisions.
Office/Meat Wrapper
Stanhope Locker
Stanhope, IA
11.2018 - 07.2020
- Executed wrapping and labeling of meat products for display, ensuring optimal product quality and freshness.
- Implemented systematic tracking of stock levels and organized storage solutions to enhance inventory management processes.
- Ensured cleanliness of work area by rigorously adhering to health and safety regulations.
- Coordinated efforts with team members to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency during high-demand periods.
- Executed safe and effective operation of meat processing equipment to ensure adherence to established protocols.
- Provided comprehensive support to customers by responding to inquiries and guiding product choices to enhance satisfaction.
- Instructed new employees on proper wrapping techniques and adherence to safety protocols to ensure compliance and quality standards in meat department.
- Supported cross-functional team efforts by assisting with tasks in other departments as needed, contributing to overall store success.
- Displayed cheese and meal selections alongside meat products to attract buyers and increase sales potential.
- Replenished cases through shifts to maintain consistent sales.
- Achieved a well-organized display of products through effective shelf management. Improved inventory quality by fronting products and systematically removing expired items.
- Conducted regular inspections of products for quality assurance purposes, removing any items that did not meet standards from display cases promptly.
- Supported customer decision-making by offering tailored recommendations on meat cuts and preparation methods.
- Unloaded new product from delivery vehicles and moved efficiently to cooler and freezer for proper storage.
- Helped managers place accurate product orders by offering feedback on customers' current desires and purchasing trends.
- Prepared custom orders for customers, including specialty cuts and marinades, resulting in repeat business.
- Actively participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on industry trends and best practices in meat handling procedures.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities by efficiently managing multiple customer requests and maintaining a high level of service quality.
Esthetician
Self
Jesup, IA
12.2015 - 09.2016
- Delivered personalized skincare consultations to assess client needs and preferences.
- Performed advanced facial treatments utilizing specialized techniques and high-quality products.
- Educated clients on skincare regimens, promoting product sales and enhancing customer loyalty.
- Maintained a clean, organized work environment in compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Developed innovative treatment protocols to improve client satisfaction and retention rates.
- Recommended retail products for at-home use.
- Flexibly worked evenings and weekends to maintain proper spa coverage.
- Expanded service offerings by obtaining certification in advanced esthetic technologies like microdermabrasion and chemical peels.
- Achieved effective client engagement through timely communication via phone and email for appointment arrangements. Enhanced sales processes by managing point of sale and add-on services through Square.
Cook
Soho Sushi Bar & Deli
Cedar Falls, IA
2014 - 2016
- Prepared diverse sushi rolls and traditional Japanese dishes adhering to quality standards.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen appliances, tools, and workstations.
- Assisted in inventory management by tracking stock levels and notifying suppliers of low supplies.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure timely service during peak hours.
- Maintained clean and organized work areas at all times to bring safety and quality to food preparation process.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills, managing multiple orders simultaneously without sacrificing quality or presentation.
Student -Esthetics
Capri College
Waterloo, IA
2014 - 2015
- Attended and excelled in Vocational Esthetics program. Graduating with honors.
- Exellent attendance and punctuality.
- Completed in-school training while also building client relationships and boosting product and service sales.
- Passed boards and attained state licensure.
Front Desk
John Deery Motors
Waterloo, IA
03.2013 - 09.2013
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
Data Entry Clerk
Aramark Uniform & Career Apparel
Waterloo, IA
2009 - 2012
- Implemented process improvements to enhance data quality and reduce errors.
- Utilized spreadsheet software to create reports, enhancing visibility of operational metrics.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline data entry processes for improved efficiency.
- Maintained organized records and files, ensuring easy retrieval of information as needed.
- Executed data processing and entry into management systems to ensure adherence to quality standards.
Correctional Officer - Intern
Waterloo Correctional Facility
Waterloo, IA
2005 - 2005
- Monitored inmate activities to ensure compliance with facility rules and regulations.
- Conducted regular safety inspections to identify potential hazards and enhance security measures.
- Responded to emergencies, applying de-escalation techniques to manage volatile situations effectively.
- Assisted in the rehabilitation process by facilitating inmate programs and activities promoting personal development.
- Reduced instances of contraband by thoroughly searching inmates, cells, and common areas.
- Escorted inmates to and from cells, court, hospitals, and medical appointments.
- Conducted routine and emergency head counts.
Education
Psychology/Sociology
University of Dubuque
Dubuque, IALicense - Esthetics
Capri College
Waterloo, IA2015
Associate of Applied Science - Corrections
Hamilton College
Cedar Falls, IA2005
Skills
Customer service
Friendly disposition
Teamwork and collaboration
Time management
Problem-solving skills
Multi-tasking strength
Excellent people skills
Reliable and punctual
Outgoing personality
Flexible schedule
Timeline
Sales Associate
Fab Finds Shoppe
12.2025 - Current
Cook/Waitress
Stinky's Bar & Grill
01.2025 - 04.2025
Retail Co-Worker
Kwik Star
09.2023 - 09.2024
Office/Meat Wrapper
Gilbertville Locker
02.2023 - 09.2023
Office/Meat Wrapper
Stanhope Locker
11.2018 - 07.2020
Esthetician
Self
12.2015 - 09.2016
Front Desk
John Deery Motors
03.2013 - 09.2013
Office/Meat Wrapper
Williams Locker
2021 - 2024
Cook
Soho Sushi Bar & Deli
2014 - 2016
Student -Esthetics
Capri College
2014 - 2015
Data Entry Clerk
Aramark Uniform & Career Apparel
2009 - 2012
Correctional Officer - Intern
Waterloo Correctional Facility
2005 - 2005
Psychology/Sociology
University of Dubuque
License - Esthetics
Capri College
Associate of Applied Science - Corrections
Hamilton College