Maria Farst
Columbus
Summary
Dynamic Pet Specialist at PetSmart with a proven track record in enhancing customer satisfaction through exceptional service and effective communication. Skilled in inventory management and sales strategies, I fostered engaging events that promoted pet adoption and wellness, while consistently implementing safety protocols to ensure compliance and animal welfare.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Pet Specialist
PetSmart
06.2025 - Current
- Monitored inventory levels, placing orders to ensure stock availability for high-demand products.
- Collaborated with veterinary staff to provide accurate information regarding pet health and nutrition.
- Conducted regular assessments of pet behavior in-store, advising customers on suitable training methods.
- Implemented store safety protocols, ensuring compliance with health regulations and animal welfare standards.
- Stayed up-to-date on current trends within the pet industry through regular continuing education efforts, including workshops, webinars, and trade shows.
- Collaborated with fellow team members to create engaging in-store events promoting pet adoption, wellness, and training services.
- Provided exceptional customer service by addressing questions and concerns promptly and professionally.
- Offered valuable insight into product performance based on firsthand knowledge from customer feedback and personal observations of sales trends.
Student Associate
The Ohio State University
09.2024 - 05.2025
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining areas, adhering to health and safety standards.
- Set up and broke down buffet and other self-service areas, organizing components logically.
- Assisted with meal preparation and presentation, ensuring quality standards.
- Cooked and produced meals in a timely manner.
Key Holder
Label Shopper
11.2021 - 03.2025
- Managed daily store operations, ensuring optimal customer service and satisfaction.
- Supervised team members, providing training and mentoring to enhance performance.
- Controlled inventory levels, conducting regular audits to maintain accuracy.
- Implemented visual merchandising strategies to maximize product appeal and sales.
- Led cash handling procedures, ensuring compliance with security protocols and accuracy in transactions.
- Resolved customer issues promptly, fostering positive relationships and repeat business.
- Swept and mopped floor, wiped windows and fixtures after closing to maintain organized and tidy store.
Education
Associate of Science - Health Scie
Columbus State Community College
Columbus, Ohio, OH05-2027
Bachelor of Science - Forensic Anthropology (Pre Med)
The Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio, OH05-2027
Skills
- Patience and calmness
- Creativity and innovation
- Sales and marketing
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Friendly and helpful
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Honest and dependable
- Time management
- Creative thinking
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Interests
- Cooking
- Baking
- Crafting and DIY Projects
- Acting and Theater
- Community Cleanup
- Offering time and support to shelters for the homeless, women, and animals
- Playing Sports
- Mindfulness Practices
- Team Sports
Timeline
Pet Specialist
PetSmart
06.2025 - Current
Student Associate
The Ohio State University
09.2024 - 05.2025
Key Holder
Label Shopper
11.2021 - 03.2025
Associate of Science - Health Scie
Columbus State Community College
Bachelor of Science - Forensic Anthropology (Pre Med)
The Ohio State University