An Order Clerk is responsible for processing customer orders, ensuring accuracy, and handling inquiries related to products or services. They play a crucial role in the supply chain by coordinating between customers, sales teams, and logistics departments.
Education: Some college, no degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Short-term
Projected Growth: -18.2% (negative growth)
Annual job openings: 8,000
Direct AI exposure: 43% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 77% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $46K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $36K per year | $40K per year | $46K per year | $54K per year | $64K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $4.81K below the national average. | ||||
Order Clerks typically work in office settings within retail, manufacturing, or distribution companies. They may spend much of their time on the computer and phone, managing orders and communicating with customers and other departments. The role can involve a standard 9-to-5 workday, though some positions, especially in retail, might require weekend or evening hours.
Order Clerks are key to ensuring customer satisfaction and efficient order processing in various industries. Their role involves not only processing orders but also managing customer expectations and ensuring that products or services are delivered in a timely manner. They need to have a good understanding of the company's products or services, as well as inventory and logistics processes.
Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, as Order Clerks often deal with multiple orders simultaneously and need to communicate effectively with different departments and customers. They must be adept at problem-solving, especially when dealing with delayed orders or product availability issues. Familiarity with order processing software and systems is also important in this role.
This occupation offers the opportunity to work in a range of industries and can be a stepping stone to roles in sales, customer service management, or logistics. For those who enjoy interacting with customers and managing detailed processes, it can be a rewarding career choice.
A high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient for entry-level positions. Some employers may prefer candidates with additional coursework or an associate degree in business, customer service, or a related field, adding 2 years of post-secondary education.
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