Joshua Picus
Berkeley,CA
Summary
Results-driven professional with a global studies background and a solid foundation in urban planning principles. Experienced in market and demographic research, and have utilized tools and programs that have honed analytical skills when it comes to defining and solving issues in the urban sphere. Seeking a transition to an urban planning role to apply analytical skills, socioeconomic understanding, and community engagement experience for the development of sustainable urban environments. Committed to creating effective solutions for the challenges of urban spaces and enhancing residents' quality of life.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales and Marketing Intern
Knowz app
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Conducted market research to identify emerging trends and competitor activities, informing product development and marketing strategies to attract more businesses.
- Led business outreach initiatives, identifying and engaging with potential clients through cold calls, emails, and networking events, managing approximately 40 incoming calls, emails and faxes per day.
- Assisted in the planning and execution of promotional events, resulting in increased brand awareness.
Inventory Specialist
Nordstrom
01.2021 - 05.2023
- Executed timely stock replenishment strategies, ensuring optimal product availability on the sales floor and reducing out-of-stock instances
- Conducted regular audits of inventory levels, identifying and resolving discrepancies promptly to maintain accurate stock records
- Implemented and maintained loss prevention measures, contributing to a reduction in shrinkage and inventory losses
- Collaborated with the merchandising team to optimize product placement and presentation, contributing to a more visually appealing sales floor.
Sales Associate
Cost Plus World Market
04.2019 - 12.2020
- Provided customer service by assisting shoppers, addressing inquiries, and offering product recommendations
- Consistently met or exceeded sales targets through effective up-selling and cross-selling techniques
- Maintaining an attractive and organized sales floor by arranging displays and ensuring products were well-stocked.
Grill Chef
Island's Restaurant
04.2019 - 12.2020
- Demonstrated excellent consistency in preparing and cooking a variety of dishes, ensuring high-quality standards in taste and presentation
- Thrived in a fast-paced kitchen environment by efficiently managing multiple orders simultaneously and working collaboratively
- Communicating effectively with kitchen staff, maintaining a smooth and synchronized workflow during peak hours.
Line Chef
400 Degree Burger Grill
06.2016 - 12.2019
- Recognized as Employee of the Month 2 times for excellent service
- Started my tenure there as a dishwasher and quickly rose up the ranks from fry cook, to Garde Manger, and eventually line chef
- Prioritized guest satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality, flavorful dishes
- Assisted in monitoring and managing kitchen inventory and ordering from supplier.
Volunteer Front desk receptionist and Auxiliary Member
Community Hospital of Monterey Peninsula
04.2016 - 02.2017
- Check-in and direct visitors as well as answer any questions
- Responsible for discharging patients, escorting visitors, transporting lab samples
- Spread warmth and compassion to dejected patients or visitors.
Volunteer Cook and Distributor
Streets to Homes: Dorothy's Place
05.2016 - 05.2019
- *Worked there May of each year from 2016 to 2019 (4 months total)
- Prepared warm home cooked meals for the local homeless community in Salinas, CA
- Operated all parts of the kitchen from food prep to cooking
- Worked with a team of 3 to feed about 500 people per day over the course of two weekends, annually, for 4 consecutive years.
Volunteer at Animal shelter
SPCA Wildlife Rescue and Animal Shelter
05.2016 - 08.2017
- Administered proper nutrition and medications according to individual animal needs and health plans
- Conducted regular health checks, monitored for signs of illness, and reported any concerns to veterinary staff
- Maintained clean and sanitary living spaces for animals, including cleaning cages, litter boxes, and communal areas
- Participated in educational programs and outreach events to promote responsible pet ownership and increase community awareness.
Education
Global And International Studies - Peace/Conflict and Economics
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA05.2024
Global Studies -
Santa Barbara City College
Santa Barbara, CA05.2020
Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Suite (Excel, Powerpoint, Word) and collaboration platforms (Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, Slack)
- Proficiency in Statistical Software (SPSS, Qualtrics, ArcGIS)
- Community engagement
- Conducting market research
- Zoning Requirements
- Tracking key performance metrics, assessing campaign effectiveness
- Accrued a population of 900,000 on Cities Skylines
- Fluent in Mandarin
- Communication and collaborative skills
- Organizational and time-management skills
Extracurriculars And Awards
- Programming and Communications chair for Isla Vista Snow Club (Aug 2019 - May 2020)
- Board Member of International Relations Council @ UC Berkeley
- Captain for High School Varsity team, reaching regional playoffs each year (Won Padre Winter Athlete of the Year in 2018)
- Auxiliary Pin for Distinguished Service for 300+ hours @ CHOMP
- Carmel High Model UN: Research Excellence and Outstanding Delegate
- Carmel High Honor Roll: Junior and Senior Year
- Employee of the Month x2 @ 400 Degree Burger
- Employee of the Month (10/2021) @ World Market
References
References available upon requests
Timeline
Sales and Marketing Intern
Knowz app
05.2023 - 08.2023
Inventory Specialist
Nordstrom
01.2021 - 05.2023
Grill Chef
Island's Restaurant
04.2019 - 12.2020
Sales Associate
Cost Plus World Market
04.2019 - 12.2020
Line Chef
400 Degree Burger Grill
06.2016 - 12.2019
Volunteer Cook and Distributor
Streets to Homes: Dorothy's Place
05.2016 - 05.2019
Volunteer at Animal shelter
SPCA Wildlife Rescue and Animal Shelter
05.2016 - 08.2017
Volunteer Front desk receptionist and Auxiliary Member
Community Hospital of Monterey Peninsula
04.2016 - 02.2017
Global And International Studies - Peace/Conflict and Economics
University of California, Berkeley
Global Studies -
Santa Barbara City College