Retail
Connect with customers in Iceland's dynamic retail environment
Demand Level:
Moderate Demand
Employment Opportunities in Iceland
Retail employs 18,000+ workers across Iceland, from small boutiques to major shopping centers. The sector welcomes international workers, especially those with multilingual skills valuable for serving tourists. Positions are available year-round with increased hours during summer tourism season and holiday periods. Many retailers offer flexible schedules suitable for students or those seeking work-life balance. Entry barriers are low, making retail excellent for newcomers to Iceland. The small market means opportunities to gain diverse retail experience quickly.
Salary Range
Entry-level retail associates earn ISK 300,000-380,000 monthly ($2,130-$2,700 USD). Experienced sales associates and specialists earn ISK 400,000-500,000 ($2,850-$3,550 USD). Department supervisors reach ISK 520,000-620,000 ($3,700-$4,400 USD). Store managers can earn ISK 650,000-800,000+ ($4,600-$5,700+ USD). Commission-based positions in specialty retail (electronics, furniture) can significantly increase earnings. Evening and weekend shifts typically include premiums. Benefits often include employee discounts and flexible scheduling.
What You Need to Get Started
Customer service orientation
Communication skills (English essential)
Friendly and professional demeanor
Basic math and cash handling
Reliability and honesty
Willingness to learn products and systems
Career Growth & Development
Retail provides accessible entry to Iceland's workforce with clear advancement paths. Successful associates can become department specialists or shift supervisors within 1-2 years. Assistant manager and manager positions follow within 3-5 years for demonstrated performers. Retail experience transfers well to other customer-facing industries including hospitality, sales, and service management. Many use retail as a stepping stone while developing other skills or building networks. Multilingual workers have particular advantages for advancement in tourist-oriented retail.
Available Positions
Sales Associate
Cashier
Stock Clerk
Customer Service Rep
Department Specialist
Visual Merchandiser
Shift Supervisor
Assistant Manager
How StarfX Can Help You
StarfX works with retailers throughout Iceland, from major chains to specialty stores. We match your customer service skills, language abilities, and interests with appropriate retailers. We help you understand Icelandic customer service expectations and prepare for interviews. Many retail positions can start within 1-2 weeks of placement. We also connect you with seasonal opportunities during peak periods. Our retail partners value our candidates' reliability, and we maintain relationships to help you advance or transition to better positions.