Career Development

What Does a Store Keeper Do?

Find out what a store keeper does, how to get this job, and what it takes to succeed as a store keeper.

Storekeepers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of their stores. They ensure that everything is clean, organized, and in its place so that customers have a positive experience when they visit.

Storekeepers may also be tasked with managing inventory or overseeing other employees who work at their store. This might include cashiers, sales associates, janitors, etc.

Store Keeper Job Duties

Store keepers have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

  • Coordinating with shipping companies to arrange pickup of goods, and with insurance companies to file claims for damaged or lost merchandise
  • Ensuring that all goods are properly priced and labeled according to company standards
  • Managing inventory levels by ordering new merchandise as needed to replenish existing stock
  • Processing sales transactions using computerized cash register systems or manual methods such as a cash register or adding machine
  • Performing physical inventory counts to ensure that all goods are accounted for at the end of each accounting period
  • Preparing reports on inventory levels and other data to help managers make business decisions about purchasing new goods or changing prices
  • Stocking shelves with merchandise, including putting price tags on items and arranging displays
  • Receiving new shipments of goods and preparing them for sale at the store
  • Recording purchase orders for inventory items for the store, including recording item details, prices, quantities ordered, and ship dates

Store Keeper Salary & Outlook

Store keepers are typically paid hourly, and their salaries can vary depending on a number of factors, including their level of experience, the size of the company they work for, and the location of the job.

  • Median Annual Salary: $41,500 ($19.95/hour)
  • Top 10% Annual Salary: $73,500 ($35.34/hour)

The employment of storekeepers is expected to decline over the next decade.

The need for storekeepers is expected to decline as more retail establishments use self-service checkout systems and other types of automation. Storekeepers will be needed to maintain and repair these automated systems, but fewer will be needed to oversee cashiers and other workers.

Related: Store Keeper Interview Questions and Answers

Store Keeper Job Requirements

A store keeper typically needs to have the following qualifications:

Education: Most employers require store keepers to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers prefer candidates who have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business, retail or another related field.

Training & Experience: Store keepers usually receive on-the-job training from their supervisors or managers. This training may include how to use the store’s computer systems, how to manage inventory and how to handle customer complaints. Store keepers who work in grocery stores may also receive training on how to handle food safety and health regulations.

Certifications & Licenses: Store keepers are not required to have any certifications to acquire their position. However, some stores offer certification programs that can help store keepers understand the products they’re selling and how to best assist customers.

Store Keeper Skills

Store keepers need the following skills in order to be successful:

Communication: Communication is the act of conveying information through verbal or nonverbal means. As a store keeper, you may need to communicate with customers, suppliers and other store employees. Effective communication can help you to resolve issues, answer questions and build relationships with others.

Customer service: Customer service skills can help you interact with customers and answer their questions. You can use these skills to help customers find the products they need and answer any questions they have about your store’s products. Customer service skills can also help you provide feedback to your company about what customers like or dislike about your products.

Organization: Organization is another skill that can help you be a successful store keeper. You may be responsible for keeping track of inventory, maintaining a clean work area and keeping records of transactions. Being organized can help you perform your job duties efficiently and effectively.

Product knowledge: As a store keeper, you should have a thorough understanding of the products you sell. This can help you answer questions from customers and help you make informed decisions about product placement and inventory. You can also use product knowledge to help customers find the right products for their needs.

Cash handling: Cash handling is the ability to handle cash transactions accurately and efficiently. As a store keeper, you may be responsible for accepting payments from customers and balancing the cash drawer. Having strong cash handling skills can help you complete your duties accurately and ensure the store has enough cash on hand.

Store Keeper Work Environment

Storekeepers work in a variety of settings, including warehouses, manufacturing plants, and retail stores. They may work in the stockroom of a store, where they receive and store merchandise. They may also work on the sales floor, where they help customers find the merchandise they need and keep the shelves stocked. Storekeepers typically work regular hours, although they may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Some storekeepers may be on call 24 hours a day in case of emergencies. The work can be physically demanding, and storekeepers may be required to lift heavy boxes and stand for long periods of time.

Store Keeper Trends

Here are three trends influencing how store keepers work. Store keepers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Growth of Online Shopping

The growth of online shopping is a trend that is quickly changing the retail landscape. As more and more people shop online, store keepers will need to find new ways to attract customers into their stores.

One way to do this is by creating an experience that can’t be found online. This could include things like unique products, special events, or customer service that is unmatched by online retailers.

More Focus on Customer Experience

As customers become more demanding, businesses are focusing more on providing a great customer experience. This means that store keepers need to focus on providing excellent customer service and making sure that their stores are clean and well-organized.

In order to stay competitive, store keepers need to focus on providing a great customer experience. This includes everything from having knowledgeable staff to offering discounts and promotions.

Greater Use of Technology in Stores

Technology is increasingly being used in stores to help improve the customer experience. This includes things like self-checkout lanes, which allow customers to check out without waiting in line, and electronic shelf labels, which make it easier for customers to find what they are looking for.

Store keepers who are able to utilize technology in their stores will be better equipped to meet the needs of today’s shoppers. They will also be more likely to stand out from the competition.

How to Become a Store Keeper

A career as a store keeper can be rewarding in many ways. It offers the opportunity to work with people, learn about different products and services, and help customers find what they need. As a store keeper, you’ll also have the chance to develop your skills in areas such as customer service, problem solving, and teamwork.

To be successful in this role, it’s important to have a positive attitude, be willing to take on new challenges, and be able to work well under pressure. You should also be comfortable working with numbers and be able to accurately calculate sums and measurements.

Advancement Prospects

Storekeepers are often promoted to positions with more responsibility, such as assistant manager or department manager. Some storekeepers may eventually become general managers, with overall responsibility for the store’s operation.

Storekeepers who demonstrate leadership ability and a commitment to the company may be promoted to management positions. Those who are interested in advancement may choose to take courses offered by their employer or through community colleges or other educational institutions. These courses may cover such topics as management, merchandising, and accounting.

Store Keeper Job Description Example

As a store keeper at [CompanyX], you will play a vital role in our operations by keeping our warehouse organized and stocked with the necessary supplies. This is a fast-paced environment where attention to detail and efficiency are key. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a warehouse or similar setting, and be able to lift heavy boxes (up to 50 lbs). You will be responsible for receiving and stocking inventory, as well as keeping the warehouse clean and organized. When our customers need supplies, it will be your job to make sure we have what they need, when they need it.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Keep the store clean, organized, and stocked with merchandise at all times
  • Greet customers as they enter the store and provide them with assistance
  • Answer customer questions about products and services
  • Help customers locate merchandise they are looking for
  • Stock shelves with new merchandise
  • Remove old or damaged merchandise from the sales floor
  • Process customer returns and exchanges
  • Keep track of inventory levels and order new merchandise when necessary
  • Assist with opening and closing the store
  • Handle cash register transactions
  • Balance the register at the end of each shift
  • Prepare bank deposits

Required Skills and Qualifications

  • Proven experience as storekeeper or similar role
  • Working knowledge of inventory management software (e.g. ERP systems)
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Great attention to detail
  • Good math skills
  • High school diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

  • Forklift certification
  • First Aid certification
  • Relevant training courses (e.g. in warehouse management)
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, with aptitude to learn new software and systems

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