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More info
- You'll need good customer service skills, the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- Serve customers on a checkout in a store or supermarket
- With experience, option to become a supervisor or manager
Checkout operators are responsible for managing checkouts and providing excellent customer service for their organisation.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
- Scanning items for customers
- Weighing and pricing items
- Using special tools to remove security tags
- Checking customers' ages for restrictions on items like alcohol
- Packing and wrapping purchases
- Processing store loyalty cards, coupons and vouchers
- Taking payments
- Making sure the till balances at the end of the day
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
You'll need to work quickly so that customers in the queue don't have to wait too long. You may spend time away from the till, filling shelves, checking stock or working on a customer service desk.
You may receive benefits like staff discounts, bonuses or cheaper canteen meals. Part-time and shift work is often available. You may need your own transport as many large retail stores are in out-of-town locations. You'll be expected to look smart and will usually be provided with a uniform.
You'll need
This role is ideal for someone with good customer service skills, the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure.
There are no set entry requirements, but you'll need numeracy and communication skills.
You'll need to be aged 18 or over to sell alcohol and other restricted goods.
Some employers may ask for GCSEs, including Maths and English, or equivalent. Experience of handling cash and serving customers would be helpful; some people will get this by volunteering in charity shops. It may be possible to start in a temporary role, for example in the Christmas sales, and for this to become a longer-term job.
You could do a college course such as level 1 Certificate in Skills for Retail or level 2 Certificate in Retail Knowledge. This would teach you some of the skills needed for the job but this is not essential.
You may also be able to get into this job through a retailer intermediate apprenticeship.
CAREER PROSPECTS
With experience, you could become a supervisor or manager. Larger companies are likely to offer you more chance of promotion.