Cashier: Duties & Job Market

Any business that sells products or services on its premises requires a cashier to conduct the sales transactions. Whether the transaction is done on a state-of-the-art computer or on a simple calculator, the cashier must know how to properly receive payments and provide receipts.

Duties of a cashier
Cashiers -- sometimes called desk associates -- are generally assigned cash registers and are therefore responsible for all transactions made on that register during their shifts; shortages at the end of the day can result in a penalty or dismissal. In addition to sales transactions, cashiers must also handle returns and exchanges, making sure that products are in saleable condition and have been returned within the timeframe set by the store. If the store sells tobacco or alcohol, the cashier is also responsible for verifying a customer's age before allowing a purchase to be made. A cashier deals directly with the customer, so excellent interpersonal skills are required for this position.

While many transactions are made by credit or debit cards, cashiers must be prepared to handle payments made by cash and check. Cashiers must give the correct change to customers, as well as file all receipts and checks carefully. This kind of work tends to be repetitive, which is why cashiers must also be very detail oriented and organized.

Where to find cashier jobs
Cashier jobs can be found at any retail establishment, as well as at gaming establishments, such as casinos. In order to work at a gaming establishment, cashiers must usually be 21 years of age, obtain a license, and pass a background check administered by the state's gaming board.

Cashier and desk associate positions in retail establishments are often advertised within the stores themselves. A person can go to a mall and fill out applications at any number of stores, with some granting interviews right on the spot. A good time to look for cashier positions is during the holidays, when stores and malls expect an increase in customers and therefore need more staff on hand.

Learning how to be a cashier
A person with little or no work experience can be hired as a cashier, provided that he or she demonstrates strong customer service skills. A college degree is not needed to be a cashier, but a sense of maturity and responsibility is needed, because a cashier often deals with large sums of cash. Cashiers receive on-the-job training on how to conduct various sales, returns, and exchanges, as well as any necessary paperwork and bookkeeping that is involved at the start and the end of each shift.

Demand for cashier jobs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for cashiers will decline by three percent between 2006 and 2016 because many people buy more goods online than they do in stores. Additionally, self-service checkout aisles are becoming popular at many retail establishments, such as supermarkets.

Cashiers in the gaming industry, however, can expect better opportunities as more states legalize casinos and as the gaming industry continues to enjoy an increase in popularity.

Sound Off! Post Your Comments