I applied through an employee referral. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at REI (San Diego, CA) in Sep 2014
Interview
Stores usually hire in groups because they train in groups. This usually happens in the fall and spring before the big Anniversary Sale in May. First starts with a phone screen asking why you're applying and what your availability. Don't be fooled - this is usually the start of your interview so treat it as such. I've been a phone screener and was surprised how unenthusiastic some candidates were so I didn't recommend to go on to the next level in the interview. After the phone screen then you're brought in for an in-person interview. You can wear casual-nice attire. Not necessary to wear a suit. No drug test but they do a background check and call referrals.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
They want to get a sense if you're a team player and that you have a passion for the outdoors. Being an REI member would be a plus.
I applied online. I interviewed at REI in Apr 2026
Interview
Online interview. After viewing question, you get 30 seconds to think and then must record an answer. You get 2-3 min per answer. If not satisfied with your first recorded answer, you have two more chances to re-record, and can then choose which of the three recordings you wish to submit. Five questions total. After this video interview, you may be offered a virtual or in-person interview with real people.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell us about a time you made adjustments to your department/store/shop to increase customer satisfaction, how you recognized the opportunity, created your plan, and measured its success.
I applied online. I interviewed at REI (Maple Grove, MN) in Sep 2025
Interview
I was asked to record a couple videos where I talked about myself, my strengths and good customer service. Afterwards I got invited to an online interview with 4 other people and 2 interviewers. They mostly asked “tell us about a time” questions.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell us about a time you dealt with a difficult conversation at work.
I applied online. I interviewed at REI (Phoenix, AZ)
Interview
After applying online, I got a notice of pre-recorded interview after a week. I had 5 days to complete the pre-recorded interview. I had to answer 5 different questions. I was able to record 3 times for each question.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Q. Please tell us about yourself and why do you want to work at REI.
