When you think of a career in the jewelry industry, you probably picture traditional jobs like retail jewelry sales or jewelry design and production. Those jobs are out there, but “non-traditional” industry opportunities in areas like technology, corporate social responsibility, finance and operations and education are equally important to the success of a jewelry company.
Here’s a look at some of these key skill sets and jobs.
Technology
Just about every aspect of the jewelry business has been affected by advancements in technology over the last decade. Like most industries, there’s been a learning curve as companies move from traditional sales to omni-channel and e-commerce; from print/radio/tv media to much greater reliance on social media; from marketing to digital marketing; from analog tracking of finances and inventory to sophisticated software systems; from traditional design tools to CAD (computer-aided design); and from opaque supply chains to those that can be virtually followed from mine to the end consumer.
Familiarity with e-commerce platforms to manage online sales
Comfortable using Point-of-Sale (POS) systems that help businesses process transactions, manage inventory and generate sales reports
Can use Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems that help track interactions and customer or client information that can help to build and manage these relationships
Know how to use the data: Individuals with strong data analysis skills and experience with tools like Excel and Google Analytics are highly valued.
Ability to use devices like smartphones to manage sales, access info on customers and stay connected with team members
Jewelers need employees who are skilled at utilizing and maximizing technology tools and keeping up with the many changes still to come. While not everyone on staff needs to be a tech expert, having a working knowledge has come to be expected across various roles and companies are increasingly hiring those who specialize in CAD, web development and e-commerce. Tech specific jobs include:
Jewelry E-commerce Sales & Marketing Specialist
Jewelry Product Photographer and E-Commerce Support
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Responsible Sourcing
Jewelry’s global supply chain means there’s a growing need for professionals with interest and expertise in responsible sourcing to help improve the lives of the people and communities affected by the industry. Large jewelry retailers and manufactures have staff dedicated to ensuring their companies are following national and international laws and regulations as part of their overall practices. Jewelry buyers, sales and management professionals for companies of all sizes need to stay up-to-speed on issues that can impact supply and prompt questions from B2B clients or the end consumer. Consultants, jewelry industry organizations and non-governmental organizations also focus on responsible sourcing in the jewelry trade.
Understanding and knowledge on issues like responsible sourcing, human rights and the environment
Ability to communicate with various stakeholders: jewelry manufacturers and suppliers, retailers and potentially consumers and governments about issues
Problem solvers who want to work to improve supply chains
Given the global nature of the jewelry business and the drive from consumers toward greater transparency and responsibility from the products they buy, virtually every pathway from sales professionals to owners and executives in the industry will benefit from those with a passion and interest in responsible sourcing. Specific jobs that focus on responsible sourcing or where knowledge of sourcing issues may be required include:
Businesses on the retail and supply side of the industry need to effectively manage budgets and cash flow; manufacturers must also ensure efficient processes for sourcing, production and timely delivery of product. Having employees that can focus on finance and operations means that the ship keeps running and runs smoothly.
Properly managing finances and operations is critical for all jewelry companies. Regardless of the pathway you’re on, it is likely you’ll need to plan and budget and have knowledge of key aspects of operations and workflow to some degree. For instance, a bench jeweler must be mindful of costs in managing the supplies of precious metal parts and stones needed to complete jobs. A jewelry salesperson who takes in a repair for a client must be able to understand the timeline for projects and be able communicate and set expectations for how quickly the work can be done. Jobs that emphasize financial and operational expertise include:
The future of the jewelry industry depends on training and educating the next generation of jewelers. Education-focused jobs in the industry come in many forms, from consultants and sales trainers to teaching at industry institutions like GIA, to professors and teachers at colleges, universities, high-schools and trade/vocational schools. For the youngest learners, jewelry classes can be found everywhere from community centers to school enrichment programs to camps. On the professional level, training is critical in ensuring that jewelers keep pace with change – from the technology revolution to research and everything in-between.
Ability to communicate information (verbal and written) effectively – both in teaching various concepts in a way that is understandable and providing valuable feedback to trainees and/or students
Patience and understanding of different backgrounds and learning styles students may have
Ability to create and manage lesson plans and training materials
Good organizers who can manage multiple students and assignments and can create a well-organized and positive learning environment
Flexibility and being able to adapt to changing circumstances
Ability to incorporate technology into the learning process
Trainers and educators can find a place at all levels within the jewelry trade, whether their focus is teaching others or becomes a key component of their job. For example, a store or sales manager must train new employees and focus on ensuring all staff are consistently learning and growing on the job. Jewelry education doesn’t stop when someone earns a credential or gets a diploma – it is ongoing and critical to success. Jobs that emphasize educational expertise include:
Whether you are an industry veteran or just starting to plan your future, Jewelers of America has information and tools to help you build an exciting career in the jewelry industry.
In 1906, Jewelers of America was founded by jewelers for jewelers, with a desire to advance the professionalism and ethics of the jewelry industry.
Today, we continue that mission and Jewelers of America Members stand as the most trustworthy, informed and professional jewelry businesses within the United States.
