good perks, but only worth it if you have a 'real job' and work at REI part time for the gear discounts. - Sales Specialist REI Employee Review

3.0
9 Aug 2009
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

awesome pro-deals on equipment and great co-workers to go out and enjoy outdoor activities with. also we got a lot of shwag (free gear) from visiting gear reps and store returns. if we were looking for something in particular the managers would look out for free gear for us when it came up.

Cons

hard to make a living if full time, salary increases are minimal and they done increase for cost of living. I worked there for almost 4 years and in the 4th year was only making about 50 cents more than the new hires. you end up spending a lot of money on gear. best bet is to have a 'real job' with good income and work part time at REI for the gear discount. turn over has increased more. leaves the stores with fewer veterans from which new-hires can learn from. I was lucky to have a handful of amazing mentors while i was there....these days though i just dont feel that REI employees have the caliber of knowledge and experience that it once did. And its apparent why....corporate REI doesnt offer the opportunity to stay and make a descent living.

Explore other reviews about REI

5.0
16 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

People and incredible work culture. REI truly walks the walk when it comes to company culture. Significant amount of focus on people and values in a genuine way. Exceptional benefits and pay. Making medical coverage available for all employees part time and full time.

Cons

Not many negatives to share.

3.0
9 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Most coworkers, some managers, discounts, outfitting people properly without extra nonsense

Cons

Some truly horrible managers, pressure to sell credit cards is a morale killer, the union people. Employees drinking the union kool aid fail to see the company’s position, REI cannot give higher pay, better benefits , consistent hours, etc… with the erratic revenue stream that comes in , if a 5 year average is X in revenue and 5 year average is Y on wages and costs, how are they supposed to increase wages and benefits? It’s numbers and they don’t line up, if REI gives the increases which increases the expenses greatly, they will cut staff, a lot fewer employees which will eliminate a bunch of union supporters, an REI job is not supposed to be a lucrative deal, when you get hired the part time , part time plus and full time options are there and you choose what you want fully understanding what hours you are going to get at minimum, they will hire those positions on a need basis, to cry later that you don’t make enough money is your fault, the terms were clear and you signed off on them. The union is promising rainbows , reality will be far different, careful what you wish for

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All