| Educational Attainment Breakdown for Cashiers |
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College or Higher |
9.9% |
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Some College |
25.8% |
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High School or Less |
64.3% |
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Most Significant Source of Postsecondary Education or Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Source: U.S. Department of Labor
Cashier jobs usually are entry-level positions requiring little or no previous work experience. They require good customer service skills.
Education and training. Although there are no specific educational requirements, employers filling full-time jobs often prefer applicants with high school diplomas.
Nearly all cashiers are trained on the job. In small businesses, an experienced worker often trains beginners. The trainee spends the first day observing the operation and becoming familiar with the store's equipment, policies, and procedures. After this, trainees are assigned to a register—frequently under the supervision of an experienced worker. In larger businesses, trainees spend several days in classes before being placed at cash registers. Topics typically covered in class include a description of the industry and the company, store policies and procedures, equipment operation, and security.
Training for experienced workers is not common, except when new equipment is introduced or when procedures change. In these cases, the employer or a representative of the equipment manufacturer trains workers on the job.
Licensure. Gaming change persons and booth cashiers are required to obtain a license and background check from their State's gaming board and must meet an age requirement, usually set at 21 years old.
Other qualifications. People who want to become cashiers should be able to do repetitious work accurately. They also need basic mathematics skills and good manual dexterity. Because cashiers deal constantly with the public, they should be neat in appearance and able to deal tactfully and pleasantly with customers. In addition, some businesses prefer to hire workers who can operate specialized equipment or who have business experience, such as typing, selling, or handling money.
Advancement. Advancement opportunities for cashiers vary. For those working part time, promotion may be to a full-time position. Others advance to head cashier or cash-office clerk. In addition, this job offers a good opportunity to learn about an employer's business and can serve as a steppingstone to a more responsible position.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook
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