The job of a cashier isn’t very complicated. However, depending on the company/store it may include some additional duties related to sales and marketing. Although cashier jobs usually attract graduates or entry-level job seekers, this kind of opportunity can be useful for everybody at some point. Most cashiers work in a retail environment (stores, supermarkets, etc.) which provides an excellent platform for building up customer service and marketing skills.
Cashier Job Description and Requirements Overview
The primary role of a cashier is to help customers during the check-out. This includes ringing up sales, collecting payments, giving changes, bagging items, etc. Sometimes, their job description is very similar to the duties of a sales associate. Usually, cashiers have to count the contents of the cash drawer as well as maintain receipts. Occasionally, they have to take weekend shifts. Ultimately, cashiers are there to ensure all transactions run smoothly and will help the store or supermarket maximize customer satisfaction.
This type of position doesn’t require advanced education. Usually, a high school diploma is enough. Depending on the company you want to work for, they might require a couple of years of experience in customer service. Although the absence of one will not automatically disqualify you from the competition. If you are able to communicate (via your resume and during an interview) that you work well under immediate supervision, have knowledge of commonly-used store practices, and love to help customers then you’ve got a good chance of getting the job.
Cashier Duties and Responsibilities
- Create a welcoming environment for customers (guests) by greeting them and providing the necessary assistance.
- Help customers locate merchandise and provide personalized product recommendations.
- Operate cash registers, scanners, and other electronic equipment.
- Balance the cash register at the end of every shift; prepare reports on credit/debit sales.
- Accept payments, process refunds and returns; issue change and receipts.
- Ensure all prices and product quantities are accurate.
- Assist marketing specialists in implementing marketing programs.
- Wrap purchases to ensure safe transport.
- Follow store procedures and policies related to gift cards and coupons.
- Cross-sell products and introduce customers to new arrivals.
- Resolve customer complaints and escalate complex issues to a store manager.
Cashier Skills
Although the position of a cashier doesn’t require advanced skills, it doesn’t mean that job seekers don’t need to highlight any skills whatsoever. There are certain proficiencies that will be particularly useful for this role.
- Customer service
- Point of Sale (POS) systems
- Interpersonal skills
- Communication skills (both written and verbal)
- Time management
- Positive attitude
- Flexibility
- Product knowledge
- Administrative assistance
- Merchandising
- Sales skills
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork
- Conflict resolution
- Basic math
- Punctuality
Cashier Jobs and Career Outlook
The great thing about cashier jobs is that no formal education credentials are required. The employers provide short-term on-the-job training instead. The median wage for cashiers is $10-$11 per hour. With almost 4,000,000 cashier jobs across the United States, this position can be a good start for one’s career. Employment for cashiers is expected to gradually decline in the upcoming decade, mostly due to the growing number of self-service checkouts in stores as well as the rising popularity of online sales. Nevertheless, it won’t have a big impact on the number of jobs available. Here are some cashier jobs you can apply for today:
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- CareerBuilder
- SimplyHired
- Snag
