Let’s talk about Lowe’s. When people think about home improvement stores, they usually picture Home Depot first. But here’s the thing: Lowe’s is actually the second-largest home improvement retailer in the world (1,700+ stores), and for many people, it’s a better place to work than its orange competitor.
Here’s what most people don’t realize about learning how to get hired at Lowe’s: they’re constantly hiring (high turnover means constant opportunities), the pay is competitive ($15-20/hour starting), you get a 10% employee discount (saves thousands if you’re a homeowner), and you don’t need to know anything about tools or home improvement when you start. They’ll teach you.
I’ve helped thousands of people figure out how to get hired at Lowe’s, and I’m about to break down everything you need to know. The pay structure, the benefits (including 401k match and profit sharing), the application secrets, interview strategies that work, and what it’s really like working in home improvement retail.
Whether you’re 18 and need your first job, 30 and love DIY projects, or 55 and want steady work with benefits, Lowe’s has positions. This complete guide on how to get hired at Lowe’s covers every step from clicking “apply” to wearing that red vest.
Let’s get you hired. 🔨
The Quick Facts About How to Get Hired at Lowe’s
Here’s what you need to know right now:
💰 Starting Pay: $15-$20/hour (varies by position and location)
📍 Store Count: 1,700+ stores across U.S. and Canada
👥 Employees: 300,000+ associates
⏱️ Time to Get Hired: 1-3 weeks average
🎂 Minimum Age: 18 years old (some stores 16 for part-time)
💉 Drug Test: YES (pre-employment)
🔍 Background Check: YES
🎓 Education Required: High school diploma or GED preferred (not strict)
🔧 Tool Knowledge: NOT required (comprehensive training provided)
💰 Employee Discount: 10% off everything in store
📅 Schedule: Flexible, 7 days a week operations
🎯 Hiring Speed: Steady (always need people, especially seasonal)
💪 Physical Demands: Moderate to high (lifting, standing all day)
Now let’s break down why Lowe’s is worth considering and how to actually get the job.
Why Lowe’s is Actually a Solid Retail Job
Before diving into how to get hired at Lowe’s, let’s talk about why it’s better than typical retail.
1. The Pay is Better Than Most Entry-Level Retail
Starting pay:
- Sales Associate/Cashier: $15-17/hour
- Stocker/Receiver: $15-18/hour
- Customer Service: $15-18/hour
- Specialist positions (Appliances, Flooring, etc.): $17-20/hour
- Department Supervisor: $19-23/hour
- Department Manager: $23-28/hour or salaried
Plus:
- Shift differentials (overnight +$1-2/hour)
- Performance bonuses
- Overtime opportunities
- Regular raises
After 2-3 years: $18-23/hour for experienced associates
This beats Walmart, Target (for similar work), and most retail.
2. The Employee Discount Saves Real Money
10% off everything at Lowe’s.
What this means if you’re a homeowner or DIYer:
- Paint project: Save $20-50
- Appliances: Save $50-200
- Lumber for deck: Save $100-300
- Tools: Save $10-100
- Lawn equipment: Save $30-150
- Flooring project: Save $200-500
Annual savings for active DIYers: $500-2,000+
Plus: Friends and family will ask you to buy for them. Set boundaries.
3. You Actually Learn Valuable Skills
Working at Lowe’s teaches:
- Home improvement knowledge (plumbing, electrical, flooring, etc.)
- Power tool operation
- Customer problem-solving
- Sales techniques
- Project planning
- Technology systems
These skills translate to real life. You’ll save thousands doing your own home repairs.
4. Career Advancement is Real
Lowe’s promotes from within:
Typical path: Sales Associate → Specialist → Department Supervisor → Department Manager → Assistant Store Manager → Store Manager
Timeline:
- Specialist: 6-12 months
- Department Supervisor: 1-2 years
- Department Manager: 2-4 years
- Assistant Store Manager: 4-6 years
- Store Manager: 6-10+ years ($80-130K+ salary)
Many Lowe’s store managers started as cashiers.
5. The Schedule Options Are Better Than Some Retail
Shifts available:
- Morning (6am-3pm)
- Mid-day (10am-7pm)
- Evening (2pm-11pm)
- Overnight (9pm-6am) – restocking, resets
- Weekend shifts
- Part-time and full-time
More variety than grocery stores. You can find what fits your life.
6. It’s More Interesting Than Typical Retail
You’re not just:
- Folding clothes (apparel retail)
- Scanning groceries (grocery stores)
- Processing returns (department stores)
You’re:
- Helping customers solve home problems
- Learning about tools and materials
- Working with contractors and professionals
- Seeing project results
Many people find home improvement retail more engaging.
7. Job Security is Solid
People always need home improvement supplies:
- Homeowners fix and upgrade
- Contractors buy materials
- DIYers tackle projects
- Emergencies require supplies
Recession-resistant. People maintain homes regardless of economy.
What Jobs Can You Get at Lowe’s?
Let’s break down positions when learning how to get hired at Lowe’s.
Sales Associate (Customer Service Associate)** – $15-$17/hour
Entry-level position. You’re helping customers, stocking, organizing, learning products.
What you’ll do:
- Greet and help customers
- Answer questions about products
- Stock shelves and organize displays
- Operate register (sometimes)
- Learn product knowledge
- Assist with loading (lumber, heavy items)
- Keep departments clean and organized
- Use technology (phones, tablets, computers)
Best for: People-oriented individuals, those who like helping solve problems, DIY enthusiasts, quick learners.
Physical demands: Moderate to high. Standing entire shift, walking 10+ miles per day, lifting 25-50 lbs regularly, climbing ladders.
Real talk: You’ll deal with confused customers, contractors who are impatient, and DIYers who don’t know what they need. But helping someone complete a project successfully feels good.
No home improvement knowledge required. Lowe’s trains thoroughly.
Cashier (Head Cashier) – $15-$18/hour
Running register, processing transactions, customer service.
What you’ll do:
- Scan items and process payments
- Handle cash, credit, returns
- Check receipts at exit
- Answer customer questions
- Handle service desk issues
- Process online orders for pickup
Best for: Detail-oriented people, friendly individuals, those who prefer stationary positions, reliable workers.
Physical demands: Moderate. Standing in one place all day, some lifting (checking large items).
Stocker/Receiver – $15-$18/hour
Unloading trucks, stocking shelves, organizing inventory.
What you’ll do:
- Unload delivery trucks
- Stock merchandise on shelves
- Organize back stock
- Operate forklifts (with certification)
- Prepare displays
- Inventory management
Physical demands: HIGH. Constant lifting (up to 80 lbs), moving pallets, operating equipment, fast-paced.
Best for: Physically capable people, those who prefer less customer interaction, organized workers, early risers (often 4-6am starts).
Overnight stocker: +$1-2/hour differential, less customer interaction.
Specialist Positions – $17-$20/hour
Sales specialists in specific departments (Appliances, Flooring, Millwork, Pro Services, etc.)
What you’ll do:
- Provide expert advice in your department
- Help customers plan projects
- Process special orders
- Build customer relationships
- Meet sales goals
- Use measurement and design tools
Departments:
- Appliances Specialist: Selling appliances, delivery coordination
- Flooring Specialist: Helping customers choose flooring, measurements, installation
- Millwork Specialist: Windows, doors, cabinets
- Pro Services: Working with contractors and professionals
Why it pays more: Sales responsibility, specialized knowledge, project management, commission potential (some positions).
Best for: Sales-oriented people, detail-oriented, technical learners, relationship builders.
Department Supervisor – $19-$23/hour
Leading a department, managing associates, overseeing operations.
Requirements: 1-2 years Lowe’s experience typically, or retail management experience.
What you’ll do:
- Supervise department team
- Train new associates
- Manage inventory
- Meet sales goals
- Handle customer issues
- Schedule staff
Best for: Natural leaders, organized people, those wanting more responsibility.
Department Manager – $23-$28/hour or Salaried $45-65K
Running an entire department, managing staff, responsible for sales and profitability.
Requirements: 2-3 years retail management, proven leadership.
Assistant Store Manager – Salaried $55-$80K
Supporting store manager with overall operations.
Requirements: 3-5 years retail management typically.
Store Manager – Salaried $80-$130K+
Running the entire store—sales, operations, staff, everything.
High-volume stores: Managers can make $120-150K+
Specialized Positions
Tool Rental Associate – $16-$19/hour (operating rental department)
Loader – $15-$17/hour (loading customer vehicles, collecting carts)
Delivery Coordinator – $17-$20/hour (scheduling deliveries, logistics)
Asset Protection – $16-$20/hour (loss prevention, security)
Pro Services Coordinator – $18-$22/hour (working with contractors)
The Pay Structure at Lowe’s
Let’s get into money when learning how to get hired at Lowe’s.
Starting Pay by Position (2025)
| Position | Low COL Areas | Medium COL | High COL (CA, NY, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sales Associate | $15-16/hr | $16-18/hr | $18-20/hr |
| Cashier | $15-16/hr | $16-18/hr | $18-20/hr |
| Stocker/Receiver | $15-17/hr | $17-19/hr | $19-22/hr |
| Specialist | $17-18/hr | $18-20/hr | $20-23/hr |
| Dept Supervisor | $19-20/hr | $21-23/hr | $23-26/hr |
Shift differentials:
- Overnight (9pm-6am): +$1.50-2.00/hour
- Weekend (some stores): +$0.50-1.00/hour
How Raises Work
Performance reviews: Annually typically
Typical raises: $0.50-$1.00/hour for good performance
Promotions: Significant jumps ($2-5/hour or salary)
Top scale for hourly: $22-28/hour for senior associates/supervisors
Overtime Opportunities
Seasonal peaks:
- Spring (March-May): Garden season, lots of OT
- Summer (June-Aug): Projects, construction
- Holiday season: Decorations, gift buying
Overtime at 1.5x: If you make $18/hour, OT is $27/hour
Peak season earnings boost: Extra $500-1,500/month possible with OT
The Benefits Package
Understanding how to get hired at Lowe’s means knowing what you get.
Benefits for Full-Time Associates (30+ hours)
Health Insurance:
- Medical, dental, vision
- Starts after 90 days (or first of month following hire)
- Multiple plan options
- Employee + dependents
Cost:
- Employee: $30-80/paycheck
- Employee + family: $100-250/paycheck
401(k):
- Company match up to 4.5% of pay
- Immediate eligibility
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP):
- Buy Lowe’s stock at 15% discount
- Optional participation
Paid Time Off:
- Vacation (starts accruing immediately)
- Sick time
- Holiday pay
Life Insurance:
- Company-provided basic coverage
- Optional additional coverage
Short/Long-Term Disability:
- Available
Tuition Assistance:
- Up to $5,250/year for eligible programs
- After 90 days employment
Benefits for Part-Time Associates
Employee Discount:
- 10% off (everyone gets this from day one)
401(k):
- Available to all
Employee Stock Purchase Plan:
- Available to all
Paid Holidays:
- Some part-timers eligible (varies)
The Employee Discount (Worth Highlighting)
10% off everything at Lowe’s.
Examples:
- Refrigerator ($2,000): Save $200
- Paint project ($200): Save $20
- Power tool ($150): Save $15
- Lumber for deck ($1,500): Save $150
- Lawn mower ($400): Save $40
Annual savings for homeowners: $500-2,000+
Pro tip: The discount works on already-discounted clearance items. Stack savings.
The Application Process
Alright, let’s get into the actual how to get hired at Lowe’s steps.
Step 1: Apply Online
Go to Lowes.com/careers or Careers.Lowes.com
Search by:
- Location (city, state, ZIP)
- Position type
- Full-time or part-time
- Department
Pro tip: Lowe’s has 1,700+ stores. If your local store isn’t hiring for your preferred position, apply to multiple stores or departments.
Step 2: Complete the Application
You’ll need:
Personal Information:
- Contact details
- Work authorization status
Availability:
- What days can you work?
- What shifts?
- Part-time (20-30 hours) or full-time (30-40 hours)?
BE FLEXIBLE. Retail operates 7 days a week. Weekend availability is crucial.
Work History:
- Previous jobs (if any)
- Retail or customer service experience helps
- First-timers are hired regularly
Education:
- High school or GED preferred
- Not strict requirement for most positions
Home Improvement Knowledge:
- They’ll ask about your experience level
- Honest answer: “Limited but eager to learn” is fine
Why Lowe’s:
- Many applications ask this
- Be genuine
Step 3: Assessment Test
Lowe’s uses personality/situational assessments:
- Customer service scenarios
- Work style preferences
- Problem-solving questions
- Team dynamics
The assessment matters. It filters candidates.
Tips:
- Answer as a reliable, customer-focused employee would
- Show you’re a team player
- Emphasize helping customers solve problems
- Be consistent in your answers
- Don’t overthink—there are no “trick” questions
What Happens Next
Timeline:
- Application reviewed (3-7 days)
- If selected: Phone call or email
- Phone screening (10-15 minutes)
- In-person interview scheduled
- Background check and drug test
- Job offer
- Orientation scheduled
Total timeline: 1-3 weeks typically
The Interview Process
You got an interview! Let’s nail it.
What to Expect
Format:
- In-person at store
- 30-45 minutes
- With department manager or store manager
- Professional but conversational
Lowe’s interviews focus on:
- Customer service orientation
- Problem-solving abilities
- Teamwork
- Reliability
- Willingness to learn
What to Wear
Business casual:
- Guys: Khakis or dress pants, collared shirt (polo or button-down), dress shoes
- Ladies: Dress pants or skirt, blouse or professional top, professional shoes
Don’t wear:
- Jeans, t-shirts, sneakers
- Too casual or sloppy
Home improvement retail is still retail. Dress professionally.
Interview Questions & How to Answer
“Why do you want to work at Lowe’s?”
❌ Bad: “I need a job” or “It’s close to my house”
✅ Good: “I want to work at Lowe’s because I’m interested in home improvement and helping customers solve problems. I appreciate that Lowe’s provides thorough training—I don’t need to be an expert starting out. I’m attracted to the employee discount as a homeowner, and I know Lowe’s promotes from within, which aligns with my goal of building a career in retail. Plus, I’ve shopped here and always noticed employees seem knowledgeable and helpful.”
Why this works: Shows interest in the industry, understands training is provided, mentions key benefits, thinks long-term, references positive customer experiences.
“Tell me about your experience with home improvement or DIY projects.”
Be honest. Lowe’s doesn’t expect everyone to be experts.
✅ If you have experience: “I’ve done several DIY projects—painted rooms, installed shelving, basic plumbing repairs. I enjoy learning as I go, and I’m comfortable with tools. Working at Lowe’s would let me expand my knowledge and help others with their projects.”
✅ If you don’t: “I don’t have extensive home improvement experience, but I’m very interested in learning. I understand Lowe’s provides comprehensive training, and I’m a quick learner. I’m comfortable asking questions and researching to help customers find the right solutions. My customer service skills from [previous job] will help me support customers even while I’m building product knowledge.”
Both work. Honesty + eagerness to learn = hired.
“How would you help a customer who doesn’t know what they need?”
✅ Perfect answer: “I’d start by asking questions to understand their project—what are they trying to accomplish? What’s the issue they’re solving? Then I’d use that information to identify the right product. If I wasn’t sure, I’d use Lowe’s systems or ask a more experienced associate to ensure we get them the correct solution. I’d rather take extra time to get it right than send them home with the wrong item.”
Why this works: Shows problem-solving, willingness to ask for help, customer focus.
“Tell me about a time you provided excellent customer service.”
STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result
✅ Example: “At my previous job [S], a customer was frustrated because we didn’t have an item they needed [T]. I checked our inventory system, found it at another location, called to confirm availability, and gave them specific directions [A]. They thanked me for going the extra mile and actually called my manager later to compliment my service [R]. I learned that taking extra steps to solve problems creates loyal customers.”
“Can you work a flexible schedule including weekends?”
✅ “Yes, I understand retail requires weekend availability. I’m flexible and can work [state your availability honestly]. I’m looking for [full-time/part-time] work and I’m prepared to work the hours needed.”
Reality: Weekends are when customers shop. If you can’t work Saturdays, your chances decrease significantly.
“This job involves physical work—lifting, standing all day, climbing ladders. Can you do this?”
✅ “Yes, I’m physically capable and understand the demands. I’m comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and climbing ladders. I’m in good health and ready for an active position.”
Be honest. If you have physical limitations, this might not be the job.
“What would you do if a customer became angry or confrontational?”
✅ Lowe’s answer: “I’d stay calm and professional. I’d listen to their concern without interrupting, apologize for any issue, and focus on solving their problem. If I couldn’t resolve it, I’d get a supervisor or manager. The goal is to turn their experience around. Most angry customers just want to be heard and have their issue fixed.”
“Where do you see yourself in 2-3 years?”
✅ Career-minded answer: “I see myself growing at Lowe’s. Whether that’s becoming a specialist in a department I’m passionate about, moving into a supervisory role, or continuing to develop my home improvement knowledge, I want to advance. I know Lowe’s promotes from within, and I’m committed to proving myself and taking advantage of opportunities.”
“Why should we hire you?”
✅ Strong answer: “You should hire me because I’m reliable, I’m a quick learner, I genuinely enjoy helping people solve problems, and I’m looking for long-term employment. I’ll show up on time, work hard to learn product knowledge, and provide the kind of customer service that keeps people coming back to Lowe’s. I’m not just looking for any retail job—I specifically want to work at Lowe’s because of the advancement opportunities and the chance to learn valuable skills.”
Questions YOU Should Ask
✅ Great questions:
- “What does a typical day look like in this position?”
- “What kind of training do you provide?”
- “What do you enjoy most about working at Lowe’s?”
- “What opportunities are there for advancement?”
- “What makes someone successful in this role?”
- “What are the next steps in the hiring process?”
What Lowe’s is Looking For
Understanding how to get hired at Lowe’s means knowing their priorities:
Lowe’s Core Values
- Customer focus – Helping solve problems
- Respect – For customers and coworkers
- Performance – Meeting standards
- Teamwork – Supporting each other
- Accountability – Taking ownership
Key Qualities
Customer service excellence:
- Patient with confused customers
- Problem-solver mentality
- Helpful and friendly
- Willing to go extra mile
Reliability:
- Show up consistently
- On time
- Dependable
Coachable:
- Accept feedback
- Eager to learn
- Don’t pretend to know everything
Team player:
- Help coworkers
- Communicate well
- Positive attitude
Physically capable:
- Can stand 8 hours
- Lift 50+ lbs
- Climb ladders
- Active work
Drug Test & Background Check
Final hurdles before starting.
Drug Testing
Yes, Lowe’s drug tests.
When: After job offer, before start date
Type: Urine test
What they test for:
- Marijuana (THC)
- Cocaine
- Opiates
- Amphetamines
- PCP
Prescription medications: Bring documentation if prescribed
If you fail: Disqualified, can’t reapply for 6-12 months typically
Timeline: Results in 2-5 business days
Background Check
Yes, Lowe’s runs background checks.
What they check:
- Criminal history (7-10 years)
- Employment verification
- Driving record (for driving positions)
What typically disqualifies:
- Theft (especially retail theft)
- Violent crimes
- Drug trafficking
- Falsifying application
What usually doesn’t:
- Minor misdemeanors years ago
- Traffic violations (unless driver position)
- Arrests without convictions
Timeline: 5-10 business days
Your First Day at Lowe’s
Welcome to Lowe’s!
Orientation
Length: 4-8 hours (sometimes full day)
What you’ll do:
- Paperwork (I-9, W-4, direct deposit)
- Benefits enrollment (if full-time)
- Safety training (critical in home improvement)
- Store tour
- Computer system overview
- Meet your team
- Get your vest and badge
What to bring:
- Government ID
- Social Security card OR birth certificate + ID
- Bank account info
- Pen and notebook
Your Uniform
Lowe’s provides:
- Red vest
- Name tag
You provide:
- Blue or black jeans (or khakis)
- Solid-colored shirt (no logos)
- Closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred, especially for loading/stocking)
Dress code is reasonable.
Training Period
Length: 2-4 weeks
What happens:
- Online training modules (lots of computer-based learning)
- Department-specific training
- Shadow experienced associates
- Product knowledge courses
- Safety certifications (forklift, ladder, etc.)
- Hands-on practice
- Customer service scenarios
- Gradual independence
Lowe’s training is comprehensive. You’ll learn product lines, store systems, and customer service extensively.
Genesis system: Lowe’s main computer system—you’ll become very familiar.
First Paycheck
Pay schedule: Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks)
Payday: Friday typically
Method: Direct deposit
First check: 2-3 weeks wait (standard)
What It’s Actually Like Working at Lowe’s
Real talk about the day-to-day.
Your Schedule
Store hours: Typically 6am-10pm (varies by location)
Shifts:
- Opening: 6am-3pm or 7am-4pm
- Mid-day: 10am-7pm or 12pm-9pm
- Closing: 2pm-11pm or 3pm-close
- Overnight: 9pm-6am (restocking, resets)
Hours:
- Part-time: 20-30 hours/week
- Full-time: 35-40 hours/week
Scheduling:
- Digital system (MyTime)
- Posted 2 weeks ahead
- Shift swaps possible
The Pace
Busy times:
- Weekends (especially Saturday mornings)
- Spring (March-May): INSANE—gardening season, projects start
- After work hours (5-7pm weekdays)
- Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day)
Slower times:
- Weekday mornings (except spring)
- Winter months (except around holidays)
- Late evenings (after 8pm)
Reality: Spring is absolutely crazy. You’ll work hard. But other seasons balance out.
The Physical Reality
This is an active job:
- Standing/walking 8-10 hours
- Lifting 25-50 lbs regularly (some positions 80+ lbs)
- Climbing ladders frequently
- Pushing/pulling carts and dollies
- Bending, reaching, kneeling
- Working in all temperatures (lumber yard in summer = hot)
First 2 weeks your feet will hurt. Invest in quality shoes.
Not for everyone. If you have physical limitations, some positions won’t work.
The Customers
Types you’ll encounter:
Weekend Warriors: DIYers doing home projects (fun to help)
Contractors/Pros: Know what they need, fast transactions (best customers)
Confused Homeowners: “My sink is leaking, help!” (you’ll diagnose over retail floor)
Indecisive: Can’t decide between paint colors, asks 1000 questions
Impatient: “I’m in a hurry” (even though they came Saturday at 10am)
Return Fraudsters: Trying to return used items, no receipts (asset protection handles)
Real talk: Most customers are decent. Contractors are usually great. Some homeowners have unrealistic expectations (they want free consulting).
The Culture
The good:
✅ Better pay than most retail ($15-20/hour starting)
✅ Learn useful life skills (home improvement knowledge)
✅ 10% discount saves money (real savings for homeowners)
✅ Career advancement exists (cashier to store manager happens)
✅ More interesting than typical retail (variety of products/projects)
✅ Recession-resistant (people always need home supplies)
✅ Benefits are solid (401k match, health insurance)
The challenges:
❌ Physically demanding (especially stocking, receiving, loading)
❌ Spring season is brutal (insanely busy March-May)
❌ Weekend work required (like all retail)
❌ Difficult customers (some want free expertise)
❌ Knowledge expectations (customers assume you know everything)
❌ High turnover (people quit, training new folks constantly)
❌ Retail hours (early mornings, late evenings, holidays)
Career Growth
Real paths:
Sales Associate → Specialist → Department Supervisor → Department Manager → Assistant Store Manager → Store Manager
Timeline:
- Specialist: 6-12 months
- Supervisor: 1-2 years
- Manager: 3-6 years
- Store Manager: 8-12 years ($80-130K)
Many store managers started as cashiers or stockers.
Insider Tips for Getting Hired
1. Apply in late winter/early spring
Lowe’s ramps up hiring for spring season. Easiest time to get hired: February-March.
2. Emphasize willingness to learn
“I don’t have extensive home improvement knowledge but I’m eager to learn” works better than faking expertise.
3. Apply to multiple stores
Each store hires independently. Apply to 5-10 stores in your area.
4. Highlight physical capability
Mention you’re comfortable with the physical demands if you are.
5. Show weekend availability
This is crucial. Weekend availability = much more hireable.
6. Mention the discount
“I’m a homeowner and the employee discount would be valuable” shows practical thinking.
7. Visit the store first
Shop at Lowe’s, observe employees helping customers. Reference this in interview.
8. Be flexible with departments
Don’t just apply for one position. Check “open to any department.”
9. Follow up
Call 5-7 days after applying. Ask for hiring manager. Shows interest.
10. Pass the assessment
The personality test matters. Answer as a reliable, team-oriented, customer-focused employee would.
FAQs About How to Get Hired at Lowe’s
Q: Do I need to know about home improvement to work at Lowe’s?
A: No! Lowe’s trains you thoroughly. Willingness to learn matters more than prior knowledge.
Q: What’s the minimum age?
A: 18 in most states. Some stores hire 16+ for part-time cashier or customer service.
Q: How long does hiring take?
A: 1-3 weeks from application to start date typically.
Q: Is Lowe’s a good first job?
A: Yes, if you’re physically capable. They train well and don’t expect prior experience.
Q: Can I work part-time?
A: Yes! Many positions are part-time. You still get the 10% discount.
Q: What’s the employee discount?
A: 10% off everything. Saves hundreds to thousands annually if you’re a homeowner or DIYer.
Q: Do they drug test?
A: Yes, pre-employment urine test.
Q: Is the physical work really that hard?
A: Depends on position. Cashier is moderate. Receiving/loading is high. Be realistic about your capabilities.
Q: Can I advance without home improvement expertise?
A: Yes. You’ll learn on the job. Many managers aren’t contractors—they’re good at retail management.
Q: What if I can’t work weekends?
A: Your chances decrease significantly. Retail needs weekend workers.
Q: Is Lowe’s better than Home Depot?
A: Subjective. Pay is similar. Culture varies by store. Lowe’s is often described as slightly less intense.
Q: Do they hire older workers?
A: Yes, if physically capable. Age isn’t a barrier if you can do the work.
Q: What’s the turnover like?
A: High, like most retail. Spring hiring brings seasonal workers who leave. Creates opportunities.
Q: Is working at Lowe’s worth it?
A: If you like home improvement, need solid pay/benefits, and are physically capable—yes.
Lowe’s vs. Home Depot
The eternal question:
| Factor | Lowe’s | Home Depot |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Pay | $15-20/hr | $15-19/hr |
| Employee Discount | 10% | 20% ✅ |
| Store Count | 1,700+ | 2,300+ ✅ |
| Benefits | Good | Good |
| Training | Comprehensive | Comprehensive |
| Career Path | Good | Good |
| Culture | Slightly more structured | Slightly more intense |
Honest assessment:
- Pay: About equal
- Discount: Home Depot wins (20% vs. 10%)
- Opportunities: Home Depot has more stores = more chances
- Culture: Varies by store, but Lowe’s often described as slightly more “corporate”
- Work: Similar physical demands
Apply to both. See which offers first.
Alright, Let’s Get You Hired at Lowe’s
So there you have it—everything you need to know about how to get hired at Lowe’s.
Is it perfect? No.
Is it physically demanding? Yes.
Is it solid retail work with decent pay and benefits? Absolutely.
If you like home improvement, don’t mind physical work, and want a retail job that teaches useful life skills, Lowe’s is a good option.
Your Action Plan (Do This Today):
- ✅ Go to Lowes.com/careers
- ✅ Search stores near you
- ✅ Apply to multiple stores and positions
- ✅ Complete the assessment honestly
- ✅ Emphasize willingness to learn
- ✅ Show weekend availability
- ✅ Prepare for physical interview questions
- ✅ Visit stores as customer first
- ✅ Follow up after 5-7 days
- ✅ Be ready for spring hiring surge (Feb-March)!
Lowe’s is hiring. Stores need staff constantly, especially spring. Now that you know how to get hired at Lowe’s, you’re ready to apply.
Go get that red vest. 🔨
