Career Development

What Does a Stockroom Clerk Do?

Find out what a Stockroom Clerk does, how to get this job, salary information, and what it takes to succeed as a Stockroom Clerk.

The Stockroom Clerk plays an integral role in the smooth operation of a company’s inventory management and supply chain. Tasked with the organization and maintenance of goods and materials in the stockroom, this position ensures that items are accounted for, properly stored, and readily accessible when needed. By managing the inflow and outflow of stock, the clerk supports various departments by enabling them to meet their operational needs without delay. Their meticulous attention to detail and ability to keep accurate records contribute to the efficiency of the company’s operations, making them an essential component of the logistics and supply chain team. Through their efforts, the Stockroom Clerk helps maintain the balance between supply and demand within the organization, facilitating a seamless flow of goods to where they are needed most.

Stockroom Clerk Job Duties

  • Receive and verify incoming shipments against purchase orders, noting discrepancies and damages, and report findings to the appropriate personnel.
  • Organize and maintain the stockroom layout for efficient storage and retrieval of items, ensuring cleanliness and orderliness at all times.
  • Utilize inventory management software to accurately record and track stock levels, including entering new items into the system and updating existing inventory records.
  • Pick and pack orders for internal and external customers, ensuring accuracy and timeliness of deliveries.
  • Perform regular stock checks and cycle counts to ensure inventory accuracy, identifying and resolving any discrepancies.
  • Coordinate with purchasing and inventory control to reorder low stock items and participate in the selection of new products or supplies.
  • Prepare and maintain detailed records and reports on stock movements, adjustments, and inventory levels for management review.
  • Handle the proper disposal or recycling of packaging materials and defective or expired stock in accordance with company policies and environmental regulations.

Stockroom Clerk Salary & Outlook

Factors affecting a Stockroom Clerk’s salary include industry experience, employer size, and complexity of inventory systems managed. Specialization in high-value goods handling or advanced inventory software proficiency can also influence earnings. Additionally, roles requiring leadership or training of new staff typically command higher salaries.

  • Median Annual Salary: $26,195 ($12.59/hour)
  • Top 10% Annual Salary: $51,000 ($24.52/hour)

The employment of stockroom clerks is expected to grow slower than average over the next decade.

This trend is largely due to advancements in inventory management software and automation technologies, which reduce the need for manual stock handling and tracking, thereby decreasing the demand for Stockroom Clerks.

Stockroom Clerk Job Requirements

Education: A Stockroom Clerk position primarily requires a high school diploma, with emphasis on courses in mathematics, inventory management, and basic computer skills to manage electronic inventory systems. While post-secondary education isn’t mandatory, a background in logistics or supply chain management can be beneficial. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, nurtured through relevant high school or vocational training courses, are essential for success in this role.

Experience: Stockroom Clerks often enter the field with minimal to no prior experience, with many securing positions shortly after starting their job search. Employers typically offer on-the-job training to acquaint new hires with inventory management systems, organizational protocols, and efficient stock handling techniques. Training programs may also cover customer service skills, safety procedures, and the use of relevant technology or equipment. The role is well-suited for individuals who are quick learners and can adapt to a variety of tasks within warehouse or retail environments.

Certifications & Licenses: Typically, the job of a Stockroom Clerk does not require specific certifications or licenses.

Stockroom Clerk Skills

Inventory Management: Tracking and organizing stock levels, product locations, and expiration dates are crucial for preventing inventory shrinkage and maintaining accurate stock records. This skill ensures items are easily retrievable and restockable, supporting smooth supply chain operations and reducing the risks of overstocking or stockouts.

Order Fulfillment: Processing incoming orders with precision, picking each item from inventory accurately, and preparing it for shipment are central duties. Attention to detail and the ability to quickly adapt to changing order volumes and product locations are necessary for this role.

Stock Rotation: Managing the movement of goods to ensure products are fresh and available minimizes waste and maximizes sales opportunities. Attention to expiration dates and inventory levels is required for a seamless merchandise flow that aligns with consumer demand.

Barcode Scanning: Using barcode technology for inventory management enables the quick processing of incoming and outgoing shipments by capturing product information in real-time. This approach streamlines operations, reduces errors, and helps maintain an organized stockroom.

Supply Chain Coordination: Overseeing the flow of goods from suppliers through to the sales floor or dispatch area involves coordinating multiple supply chain elements. Effective coordination minimizes delays, ensures accurate inventory levels, and supports seamless operations, impacting productivity and customer satisfaction.

Loss Prevention: Identifying and addressing risks related to inventory shrinkage, such as theft, damage, and misplacement, requires regular audits, precise record-keeping, and strategic organizational measures to protect stock integrity.

Stockroom Clerk Work Environment

A Stockroom Clerk typically operates in a back-of-house environment, navigating rows of inventory within a confined, often windowless space. The area is equipped with shelving units, barcode scanners, and computer systems for inventory management. The physical demands of the role include lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods, necessitating a focus on ergonomic practices and safety gear to prevent injuries.

Work hours might extend beyond the typical nine-to-five, especially during peak seasons, with some flexibility in scheduling to accommodate inventory deliveries and audits. The dress code leans towards practicality, with durable, comfortable clothing and safety shoes being the norm.

The atmosphere is one of quiet efficiency, punctuated by the beeps of scanners and the occasional team meetings. Interaction is mostly with team members, fostering a close-knit community focused on collaboration and support. Technology plays a significant role in streamlining tasks, from tracking stock levels to scheduling shipments, ensuring the work is as efficient as possible.

Advancement Prospects

Stockroom Clerks can advance to supervisory roles within the warehouse or inventory management sectors by demonstrating exceptional organizational skills and a deep understanding of inventory control systems. Mastery in managing stock levels, orders, and distribution can lead to positions such as Inventory Manager or Warehouse Supervisor.

Gaining experience in using advanced inventory management software and technologies is crucial for progression. Stockroom Clerks should focus on improving efficiency in stock handling and data management to stand out.

Exploring opportunities within purchasing or supply chain management is another advancement path. Clerks with a knack for negotiation and supplier relations can transition into roles such as Purchasing Agent or Supply Chain Coordinator, where they can leverage their detailed knowledge of stock and inventory needs.

To accomplish these advancements, clerks should seek responsibilities that broaden their experience in inventory analysis, logistics, and team leadership within their current roles. Demonstrating the ability to reduce costs, improve inventory accuracy, and lead projects will position them as strong candidates for higher-level positions.

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