Last Updated: April 6, 2026
Kohl’s Application Guide (2025): How to Apply Online for Retail Jobs
How to Apply at Kohl’s
To apply at Kohl’s, complete an online application through the Kohl’s careers portal at corporate.kohls.com/careers. Kohl’s operates approximately 1,100 stores across 49 states and employs about 80,000 people. Applications are processed online for all positions — Kohl’s does not accept paper applications in stores.
Step 1: Go to Kohl’s Careers Portal
Visit corporate.kohls.com/careers. Search for jobs by location, keyword (e.g., “Sales Associate,” “Cashier,” “Fulfillment”), or department. The portal lists all available positions at stores near you.
Step 2: Select a Role and Location
Choose a position that matches your interests and experience. Store positions include Sales Associate, Cashier, Fulfillment Associate, and Lead. Seasonal roles open heavily in October. Click the listing and review the job description and requirements.
Step 3: Create an Account and Complete the Application
Create a Kohl’s candidate account. Fill in contact details, work history, education, and availability. Kohl’s specifically requests your availability by day and shift (morning/afternoon/evening) — filling this out completely speeds up scheduling.
Step 4: Complete the Assessment
Kohl’s includes a brief situational judgment assessment as part of most store applications. The assessment presents customer service and workplace scenarios and asks how you’d respond. Answer honestly — Kohl’s uses these results to assess culture fit, not to trick you.
Step 5: Interview and Offer
Store managers conduct 30–45 minute interviews, either in person or by phone. After a successful interview, offers are typically extended within 1–5 business days. Background checks are completed after a conditional offer.
Kohl’s Job Positions & Pay Rates
Kohl’s is one of the largest department store chains in the U.S. The company operates a hybrid retail model with in-store sales, buy online / pick up in store (BOPIS), and Kohl’s Returns partnership with Amazon. This means store teams include traditional retail roles plus fulfillment-focused positions.
| Position | Pay Range | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Sales Associate | $13–$16/hr | Part-time / Full-time |
| Cashier | $13–$16/hr | Part-time / Full-time |
| Fulfillment Associate | $14–$17/hr | Part-time / Full-time |
| Amazon Returns Associate | $13–$16/hr | Part-time / Full-time |
| Merchandise Lead | $15–$19/hr | Full-time |
| Department Lead | $16–$20/hr | Full-time |
| Assistant Store Manager | $50,000–$65,000/yr | Salaried |
| Store Manager | $70,000–$105,000/yr | Salaried |
Kohl’s starting wages are in line with the retail industry average. The company raised its minimum starting wage to $15/hr in high-cost markets and offers competitive seasonal pay bumps of $1–$2/hr during peak hiring periods (October–December).
Kohl’s Application Requirements
- Minimum age: 16 years old for entry-level store positions. Some states require associates to be 18 for roles involving certain equipment operation.
- Work authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. Kohl’s uses E-Verify.
- Availability: Weekend availability is strongly preferred. Holiday availability (Thanksgiving weekend, Christmas) is typically required for seasonal hires.
- Physical requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift and move merchandise up to 50 lbs, and use store fixtures and equipment.
- Education: No degree required for store positions. Management roles typically require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
- Experience: No prior retail experience required for entry-level roles, though customer service experience is valued.
Kohl’s Interview Process
Kohl’s store interviews are structured but conversational. Most in-store positions involve a single interview with the hiring manager or store manager, lasting 30–45 minutes. Candidates for lead and management positions may meet with multiple managers.
What to Expect
- Phone screening: A brief call to confirm availability and interest before scheduling an in-person interview.
- In-person interview: Behavioral questions (STAR format: Situation, Task, Action, Result) are common. Expect questions about handling difficult customers, working in teams, and meeting performance goals.
- Store walkthrough: Some managers walk candidates through the store during or after the interview to assess product knowledge interest and comfort in a retail environment.
Common Kohl’s Interview Questions
- “Tell me about a time you went above and beyond for a customer.”
- “How would you handle a customer who wants to return an item without a receipt?”
- “Describe a situation where you had to work as part of a team to achieve a goal.”
- “What is your availability, including weekends and holidays?”
- “Have you worked in retail before? What did you like or dislike about it?”
Interview Tips
Business casual dress is appropriate. Prepare 2–3 STAR-format stories about customer service situations. Kohl’s culture emphasizes customer-first service and speed in fulfillment roles — highlight any experience with high-volume customer interaction or organized work environments. Mentioning familiarity with Kohl’s Rewards or the Amazon Returns program shows awareness of the business.
Kohl’s Employee Benefits
Kohl’s offers a competitive benefits package relative to other department store chains. The 15% employee discount applies at Kohl’s stores and online at kohls.com, and increases during special associate shopping events.
| Benefit | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Employee Discount | All employees | 15% off at Kohl’s stores and kohls.com; higher during associate events |
| Health Insurance | Full-time employees | Medical, dental, vision; available after 90-day waiting period |
| Paid Time Off | Full-time employees | Accrual begins at hire; increases with tenure |
| 401(k) | All eligible employees | Kohl’s matches 100% of first 5% of contributions after 1 year |
| Flexible Scheduling | All stores | Part-time and full-time options; schedule visibility 2 weeks in advance |
| Kohl’s Cash Bonus | All employees | Kohl’s Cash earned during promotional periods applies to employee purchases |
| Life Insurance | Full-time employees | Company-paid basic life insurance; supplemental options available |
| Tuition Assistance | Full-time employees | Up to $3,000/year for approved degree programs after 1 year |
Kohl’s Career Development
Kohl’s promotes actively from within, particularly for lead and management roles. The Kohl’s Leadership Excellence and Development (LEAD) program provides structured pathways for associates interested in moving into supervisory positions. Most department leads are promoted from within the store’s associate team.
Kohl’s strong 401(k) match (100% up to 5%) and tuition assistance program make it an above-average employer for long-term employees relative to other major retailers. Store manager salaries — up to $105,000 — are competitive with Target and above most Macy’s locations.
| Role | Avg. Time to Reach | Pay Range |
|---|---|---|
| Sales Associate / Cashier | Day 1 | $13–$16/hr |
| Merchandise / Department Lead | 1–2 years | $15–$20/hr |
| Assistant Store Manager | 2–4 years | $50,000–$65,000/yr |
| Store Manager | 4–7 years | $70,000–$105,000/yr |
| District Manager | 7–12 years | $110,000–$145,000/yr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to work at Kohl’s?
You must be at least 16 years old to work at Kohl’s in most states. Some positions involving equipment operation may require applicants to be 18. The standard minimum for sales associate and cashier roles is 16.
Does Kohl’s hire part-time?
Yes. A significant portion of Kohl’s store workforce is part-time. Part-time associates typically work 15–25 hours per week. Scheduling is flexible, and Kohl’s is known for accommodating students and employees with other commitments.
What is the Kohl’s employee discount?
Kohl’s employees receive a 15% discount on purchases at Kohl’s stores and kohls.com. This discount is available from the first day of employment. During special associate shopping events, the discount increases to 20–35%. Employees can also earn and use Kohl’s Cash like regular customers.
Does Kohl’s pay weekly or biweekly?
Kohl’s pays on a biweekly schedule (every two weeks). Direct deposit is available and encouraged. Pay stubs are accessible through the Kohl’s employee portal.
Does Kohl’s do a background check?
Yes. Kohl’s conducts background checks on all candidates after a conditional job offer. The check typically covers criminal history and employment verification. The process usually takes 3–7 business days.
When does Kohl’s do seasonal hiring?
Kohl’s runs its biggest seasonal hiring push in September and October for the holiday shopping season (Black Friday through Christmas). Seasonal associates may work through January. Top seasonal performers are often offered permanent positions.
Does Kohl’s offer health insurance to part-time employees?
Health insurance is available only to full-time employees at Kohl’s, defined as those working 30+ hours per week consistently. Part-time employees do not receive medical benefits, though the employee discount and 401(k) access may be available to eligible part-time workers after a waiting period.