Stock Clerk

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Work Tasks

STOCK CLERKS receive, unpack, check, store, and keep track of merchandise and materials. They keep records of items entering or leaving the stock room and report damaged or spoiled goods. Stock clerks sort, organize and, when necessary, mark items with identifying codes, such as prices or stock inventory control codes, so inventories can be located quickly and easily. In many firms, stock clerks use hand-held scanners connected to computers to keep inventories up-to-date.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $27,500 average per year ($13.25 per hour)
• A very large occupation (1,796,000 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (0.7% per year)

Entry Requirements

Employers prefer to hire high school graduates for STOCK CLERK positions. Stock clerks usually learn the job by doing simple tasks under close supervision. No special licensing or certification is required for stock clerks. Stock clerks who handle jewelry, liquor, or drugs may have to be bonded.