Bank Clerk vs. Bank Teller: What Are the Differences?

Bank tellers and bank clerks are two positions that are essential to the function of a bank. Though these jobs share some similarities, there are several key differences that set them apart. In this article, we discuss the duties of a bank teller and a bank clerk, and we explain the differences between the two positions.

What is a Bank Clerk?

Bank Clerks are responsible for a variety of clerical and administrative tasks in a banking setting. They may work in the customer service area, assisting customers with deposits, withdrawals, transfers and other transactions. They may also work in the loan department, processing loan applications and documentation. Bank Clerks may also work in the human resources department, assisting with the hiring process, employee onboarding and benefits administration. In some cases, Bank Clerks may be responsible for all of the above tasks, depending on the size and structure of the bank.

What is a Bank Teller?

Bank Tellers are responsible for providing customer service and performing basic banking transactions at a bank or credit union. They greet customers, answer questions, process deposits and withdrawals, cash checks and handle other routine transactions. Bank Tellers may also refer customers to other bank staff for more complex transactions. They may also be responsible for counting and organizing the cash in their drawer at the beginning and end of their shift. Bank Tellers need to be able to work quickly and accurately while providing excellent customer service.

Bank Clerk vs. Bank Teller

Here are the main differences between a bank clerk and a bank teller.

Job Duties

Bank clerks and tellers have some duties that are the same, but there are also differences between their responsibilities. Bank clerks perform a wide variety of tasks to ensure the smooth operation of the bank. They’re in charge of receiving, processing and storing deposits and withdrawals. Bank clerks also verify documents and track the status of transactions.

Bank tellers provide customers with basic banking services. They accept deposits, process transactions and offer cash withdrawals to customers. Tellers also answer common questions from customers and assist them with using the ATM.

Job Requirements

Bank tellers typically need at least a high school diploma to enter the field, though some employers prefer candidates with some college experience. Bank tellers also receive on-the-job training from their employer to learn about specific bank policies and procedures. Some tellers may eventually move into management positions, such as head teller or assistant branch manager. These roles usually require additional education and experience.

Bank clerks typically need at least a high school diploma as well. However, some employers prefer candidates who have completed some college coursework, especially in business or accounting. Bank clerks also receive on-the-job training from their employer to learn about specific bank policies and procedures. Some clerks may eventually move into management positions, such as head clerk or assistant branch manager. These roles usually require additional education and experience.

Work Environment

Bank clerks and bank tellers work in similar environments, but there are some differences. Bank clerks typically work in traditional banking settings with desks and filing cabinets. They may also work in a more modern setting with computers and other technology.

Bank tellers usually work in more modern settings where they use technology to perform their duties. However, unlike bank clerks, bank tellers rarely have access to confidential information about customers or the bank’s operations.

Skills

Both bank clerks and bank tellers need to have excellent customer service skills. This includes being able to handle difficult customer inquiries or complaints in a professional manner. They also both need basic math skills to perform their daily tasks, such as counting money and making change.

Bank clerks typically need to have good organizational skills to keep track of various documents, forms and files. They may also be responsible for scheduling appointments or managing calendars, so time management skills can be helpful. Bank tellers need to be able to pay close attention to detail to ensure accuracy when counting money and completing transactions.

While bank clerks may not have direct contact with customers, they still need to be able to communicate effectively. This includes writing clear and concise emails or memos and providing instructions to customers over the phone. Bank tellers need to be able to communicate face-to-face with customers, so strong interpersonal skills are essential. They should be able to build rapport quickly and provide information in a clear and concise manner.

Salary

Bank clerks earn an average salary of $40,606 per year, while bank tellers earn an average salary of $35,830 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the location of the bank, the size of the bank and the level of experience the employee has.