Jobs in the grocery work section usually pertain to the job position of a grocery clerk who is responsible for the stocking and storing of grocery products in a store. They are responsible for the overall smooth functioning of a grocery store or the grocery section of a large supermarket. They have to also make sure that the entire grocery area is clean and maintains a certain level of hygiene. Grocery clerks have to look presentable at all times, since they are usually the first point of contact for the customers and act as a representative for the store.
Description
The chief work functions that a grocery clerk carries out are given below.
Skills
While educational qualifications aren't mandatory during the selection of a candidate for the position of a grocery clerk, they are expected to have basic knowledge of mathematics and information about the various goods that grocery stores normally have in stock. They may have to occasionally lift heavy objects and products, thus they should be in a good physical condition. Since this is a profession which involves a lot of direct customer interaction, they should possess excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills. Basic level mathematics is also expected from a grocery clerk as it is necessary while performing inventory calculations of the store.
Requirements
Most stores require a candidate who is applying for a grocery clerk's position, to have completed minimum high school education. Prior experience in the field is usually given a higher preference over educational qualifications in this line of work. They also have to be good at providing excellent customer service and being cordial at all times. They need to have good memory when it comes to knowledge of knowing where particular grocery products are kept in the store. Knowledge of various brands and goods is an added advantage. A grocer's work may involve long hours of remaining in a standing position, owing to which good physical condition of the grocery clerk is a must.
Career Advancement
Advancement of job positions in grocery work involves moving on to higher positions such as a grocery supervisor. They could also seek jobs with better pay structures in different stores. At times, grocery store supervisors are known to take on the role of grocery manager based on his experience and skills alone.
Work Environment
Most grocery personnel work five days in a week for around 40 hours. Stores which operate on a daily basis require their employees to rotate their shifts in such a way that the store contains a certain number of employees at all times. While such shifts do not ensure an off during the weekends, they are adjusted by giving leaves during the week days instead. The work of a grocery clerk can be physically stressful owing to the long hours of standing and heavy lifting at times.
Earnings
Grocery clerks earn wages on an hourly basis and these figures may vary from $8 to $15 an hour depending upon the seniority and work efficiency of the person. Besides these wages, they also get additional benefits such as health insurance, pension plans and paid leaves.
Grocery work sector is ideal for those who are adept at providing customer service and are good at stocking and storing of products intended for sale. If you have the flair for these factors, you should try your hands at these jobs.