Last Updated: April 8, 2026
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Big Lots Application Guide (2025): How to Apply Online
By the Numbers
Big Lots is a major discount and closeout retailer specializing in furniture, seasonal goods, food, and household products. The company has undergone significant restructuring following its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in September 2024 and subsequent acquisition by Nexus Capital Management. Despite this transition, Big Lots continues active hiring across its retail footprint.
- Employees: Approximately 28,000 team members
- Store Count: 1,300+ locations across 47 states (reduced from 1,400+ pre-bankruptcy)
- Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio
- Founded: 1967 (as Consolidated Stores)
- Glassdoor Rating: 3.1 out of 5 stars (based on 8,000+ reviews)
- Industry: Discount/Closeout Retail
- Primary Competitors: Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Ross Dress for Less, Burlington Coat Factory
How to Apply at Big Lots
Big Lots’ application process is streamlined and online-first. The company accepts applications exclusively through their career portal at biglots.com/careers. Walk-in applications are no longer accepted at stores — all hiring is managed centrally through their applicant tracking system. The hiring timeline from application to first day typically ranges from 1–3 weeks, depending on role and location demand.
Step 1: Visit the Big Lots Careers Portal
Go to biglots.com/careers and click “Browse Jobs” or “Search Positions.” You can filter by job category (Sales, Cashier, Stocker, Furniture, Assistant Manager, etc.), store location (city, state, or ZIP code), and employment type (Full-Time, Part-Time). Most locations have multiple open positions at any given time.
Step 2: Review the Job Description and Requirements
Each job posting includes the full description, key responsibilities, and minimum requirements (age, availability, physical demands). Take note of any specific requirements — for example, Furniture Sales roles may require lifting capability or prior sales experience, while equipment-related positions (cutting keys, opening locks) require applicants to be at least 18. Part-time availability is common for most entry-level roles.
Step 3: Create Your Profile or Sign In
First-time applicants must create a Big Lots candidate profile using an email address and password. You will provide basic contact information, desired job titles, preferred locations, and work authorization status. You can optionally upload a résumé or allow the system to build a profile from your responses. Save your profile to access it for future applications without re-entering information.
Step 4: Complete the Application
The standard Big Lots application includes work history (last 3–5 employers), education, availability (days/hours per week), and references. Some positions — particularly Assistant Store Manager and Furniture Sales roles — include a brief skills assessment covering customer service scenarios, numeracy, or retail inventory systems. Sales-focused roles may include a short questionnaire about prior retail or customer service experience.
Step 5: Background Check Authorization
Big Lots conducts background checks for all new hires. You will be asked to authorize a criminal background check (typically 7-year lookback for most states). The company will ask for any previous address history and employment verification. Some locations in specific states may include an additional check, depending on state law and position requirements.
Step 6: Phone Interview or Store Contact
If your application is selected, a Big Lots recruiter or store manager will contact you by phone within 3–7 business days to confirm interest, verify availability, and discuss the role in more detail. This call typically lasts 10–15 minutes. High-demand positions or busy stores may move to an in-person interview immediately; slower periods may include a phone screening first.
Step 7: In-Store Interview
You will be invited to interview at the specific Big Lots location for which you applied. Interviews are conducted by the store manager, assistant manager, or department supervisor and typically last 20–30 minutes. The interviewer will ask about your customer service experience, availability, physical ability to perform job duties (for roles involving lifting or standing for extended periods), and familiarity with Big Lots.
Step 8: Conditional Offer and Onboarding
Qualified candidates receive a conditional offer pending background check clearance. The background check typically completes within 3–5 business days. Once cleared, you receive your start date, required documentation (I-9, tax forms, direct deposit), and onboarding instructions. First-day training includes POS system orientation, store policies, and safety procedures, typically completed during your first or second shift.
Big Lots Job Positions & Pay Rates
Big Lots’ entry-level positions are concentrated in sales floor, cash handling, and merchandise stocking. The company also hires for specialized roles in furniture sales (commission-based) and store operations (supervisory and management). Pay rates vary by location, store volume, and prior experience — rural and lower-traffic stores typically pay on the lower end of ranges, while high-traffic urban locations and major metros pay toward the higher end.
| Position | Starting Pay | Experienced Pay | Type | Min Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sales Associate | $11–$12/hr | $12–$14/hr | Part-time / Full-time | 16 |
| Cashier | $11–$12/hr | $12–$13/hr | Part-time / Full-time | 16 |
| Stocker / Stock Associate | $11–$12/hr | $13–$14/hr | Part-time / Full-time | 16 |
| Furniture Sales Associate | $12–$13/hr + commission | $13–$15/hr + commission | Full-time | 16 |
| Department Supervisor | $13–$15/hr | $15–$17/hr | Full-time | 18 |
| Assistant Store Manager | $15–$18/hr | $18–$20/hr | Full-time | 18 |
| Store Manager | $40,000–$50,000/yr | $50,000–$65,000/yr | Salaried | 18 |
Big Lots Application Requirements
Big Lots’ minimum requirements are straightforward and entry-level focused. The company hires high volumes of first-time workers and those with minimal prior retail experience. Key requirements vary by position, particularly regarding age and physical demands.
- Minimum age: 16 for sales floor, cashier, and stock roles. 18 for equipment-related positions (keys, locks, security equipment), supervisory roles, and management. Age must be verified during I-9 completion at onboarding.
- Education: No formal education requirement for entry-level positions. High school diploma or GED preferred for supervisory and management roles but not strictly required if relevant retail experience is demonstrated.
- Background check: Criminal background check required for all hires. Big Lots typically follows a 7-year lookback period. Minor incidents (shoplifting, disorderly conduct) may not disqualify applicants, but theft, violence, and fraud are typically grounds for rejection.
- Work authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. Big Lots verifies I-9 documentation (valid ID and work authorization document) at the time of hire.
- Availability: Big Lots stores typically operate Monday–Saturday, 9am–9pm (hours vary by location). Weekend and evening availability is expected for most roles. Full-time roles may require flexibility in scheduling.
- Physical requirements: Stock positions require ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and stand for extended periods. Furniture Sales positions involve moving heavy items. Cashier and Sales Associate roles require standing and mobility throughout shift.
- Driving license: Not required for store positions but may be preferred for internal transfers or future warehouse roles. Some locations may offer additional pay for employees willing to use personal vehicles for local deliveries (rare).
Big Lots Interview Process
Big Lots’ interview process is informal and conversational, reflecting the company’s retail-first culture. Interviews are typically conducted by a single store manager or assistant manager. The focus is on customer service attitude, reliability (showing up on time), and ability to work as part of a small team. The entire hiring process from application to offer typically takes 1–3 weeks.
What to Expect
- Phone call or text: Initial contact is often informal — a store manager may call or text to verify interest and confirm your availability. This is a quick conversation (5–10 minutes) to confirm you’re still interested and can start within the required timeframe.
- In-store interview: The main interview is conducted at the specific Big Lots location and lasts 20–30 minutes. The interviewer is usually the store manager or assistant manager. You will walk through the store, answer situational questions, and potentially observe store operations.
- Assistant Manager / Management interviews: For supervisory roles, a district manager or regional manager may participate via phone or conduct a second interview at a later date. These interviews are more structured and include questions about prior supervisory experience and store operations knowledge.
- Assessment: No formal written assessment is standard, though some locations may ask you to demonstrate basic math (making change) or walk through a customer service scenario verbally.
Common Big Lots Interview Questions
- “Tell me about your experience in retail or customer service.”
- “Why are you interested in working at Big Lots?”
- “How do you handle a difficult or upset customer?”
- “Describe a time you worked as part of a team.”
- “What days and times are you available to work?”
- “Are you comfortable lifting heavy items and working on your feet for full shifts?”
- “What would you do if you noticed a coworker making a mistake?”
- “How do you stay organized when things get busy?”
Interview Tips
Big Lots values reliability and a positive attitude above all else. Interviewers are looking for people who show up on time, work hard, and treat coworkers and customers with respect. Dress in clean, business-casual clothes — no need for a full suit, but avoid jeans and graphic tees. Be honest about your availability; the company values transparency and makes scheduling decisions based on what you commit to. If you have retail or customer service experience, mention it, but lack of experience is not a barrier — many Big Lots employees are first-time workers. Prepare 2–3 examples of times you worked hard, solved a problem, or helped a customer, using simple, conversational language. Research the specific store’s location and mention something you’ve observed (layout, product selection, foot traffic) to show genuine interest.
Big Lots Employee Benefits
Big Lots offers benefits primarily to full-time employees (typically 30+ hours per week). Part-time employees receive limited benefits but do have access to an employee discount. The company’s benefits package is modest compared to larger retailers but competitive within the discount retail sector.
| Benefit | Part-Time | Full-Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employee Discount | Yes | Yes | 20% discount on in-store merchandise (excludes certain sale items) |
| Health Insurance | No | Yes | Medical, dental, vision coverage available (employee contribution) |
| 401(k) | No | Yes (after eligibility) | Company match available after vesting period |
| Paid Time Off (PTO) | Limited | Yes | Accrued PTO for vacation and sick days (full-time only) |
| Life Insurance | No | Yes | Basic life insurance coverage provided |
| Flexible Scheduling | Yes | Yes | Availability discussed during hiring; accommodations made where possible |
| Employee Assistance Program (EAP) | No | Yes | Confidential counseling and support resources |
| Store Discounts (Non-Big Lots) | No | Possible | Partner discounts occasionally available to full-time employees |
Big Lots Competitor Comparison
Big Lots competes directly with other discount and closeout retailers for both customers and employees. Understanding how Big Lots’ pay, benefits, and hiring practices compare to similar companies can help you evaluate your best opportunities in discount retail.
| Company | Entry-Level Pay | Min Age | Benefits (FT) | Store Count |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Lots | $11–$14/hr | 16 | Health/Dental/401k/PTO | 1,300 |
| Dollar General | $11–$13/hr | 16 | Health/401k/PTO | 18,000+ |
| Dollar Tree | $11–$13/hr | 16 | Health/401k/PTO | 15,000+ |
| Ross Dress for Less | $12–$14/hr | 16 | Health/Dental/401k | 1,600+ |
| Burlington Coat Factory | $12–$15/hr | 16 | Health/Dental/401k | 600+ |
| Walmart | $12–$16/hr | 16 | Health/Dental/401k/PTO | 4,700+ |
Big Lots Career Development and Advancement
Big Lots promotes from within, particularly for store-level management positions. Employees who demonstrate reliability, leadership, and sales ability can move from Sales Associate to Supervisor to Assistant Manager to Store Manager within 2–4 years. The company also offers occasional training opportunities through its learning management system, though formal career development programs are limited compared to larger retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to work at Big Lots?
The minimum age to work at Big Lots is 16 for sales floor, cashier, and stock positions. Roles involving equipment (key cutting, lock opening, security equipment) and all supervisory/management positions require applicants to be at least 18. Age is verified during I-9 documentation at the time of hire.
What is the starting pay at Big Lots?
Big Lots’ starting pay for Sales Associates, Cashiers, and Stockers ranges from $11–$14 per hour, depending on the specific store location, local market conditions, and prior retail experience. High-traffic urban stores typically pay on the higher end, while rural locations pay closer to minimum wage. Furniture Sales roles start at $12–$13/hour plus commission opportunity, making them potentially higher-earning positions for experienced sales representatives.
Does Big Lots hire people with criminal records?
Big Lots will consider applicants with criminal records on a case-by-case basis. The company conducts a 7-year background check for most states. Minor offenses (shoplifting, disorderly conduct) from several years ago may not disqualify you, but more serious crimes (theft, violence, fraud) typically result in rejection. Your best approach is to be honest on your application and explain any history during the interview — many Big Lots employees have prior records and the company values rehabilitation and second chances.
What is Big Lots’ employee discount?
Big Lots offers a 20% employee discount on most in-store merchandise. The discount typically excludes clearance items marked below a certain threshold, certain sale events, and some specialty categories. Both part-time and full-time employees receive the same discount, making it one of Big Lots’ more accessible benefits for early-career retail workers.
Is Big Lots hiring after the bankruptcy and acquisition?
Yes. Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September 2024 and was subsequently acquired by Nexus Capital Management in early 2025. While the company reduced its store footprint from 1,400+ to approximately 1,300 locations, it continues to hire actively across its remaining stores. The bankruptcy did not significantly disrupt hiring or employment, though some locations and districts may have reduced headcount. The company’s stability under new ownership appears secure, and employment opportunities remain available across all entry-level and management positions.
How long is the Big Lots hiring process?
The typical Big Lots hiring process takes 1–3 weeks from application to first day, depending on store demand and background check processing. A standard timeline is: Application submitted → Phone contact (3–7 days) → In-store interview (within 10 days) → Background check (3–5 days) → Start date offered. High-demand positions during peak seasons (back-to-school, holidays) may move faster; slower periods may take longer.
What is Big Lots Glassdoor rating and employee experience?
Big Lots has a 3.1 out of 5 star rating on Glassdoor based on approximately 8,000 employee reviews. Common feedback includes praise for management quality and workplace friendliness at good locations, but concerns about understaffing, inconsistent scheduling, and low pay relative to workload. The company is non-union, so wages and benefits are determined individually by location and role. Employee satisfaction varies significantly by store — high-volume, well-managed locations tend to have better reviews than smaller or under-resourced stores.