Parts Clerk Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of rapid industrialization, the role of a parts clerk has become increasingly important.
As the pulse of every manufacturing and repair operation quickens, the need for skilled individuals who can efficiently manage, organize, and distribute essential parts grows exponentially.
But let’s delve deeper: What is really expected from a parts clerk?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the intricate logistics of parts management,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable parts clerk job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Parts Clerk Duties and Responsibilities
Parts Clerks are responsible for managing parts inventories, assisting mechanics, and serving customers in automotive repair shops.
They also have to perform administrative tasks and ensure the smooth operation of the parts department.
Parts Clerks have the following duties and responsibilities:
- Receive, store, and issue sales floor merchandise, materials, equipment, and other items from stockroom, warehouse, or storage yard to fill shelves, racks, tables, or customers’ orders.
- Maintain accurate records of parts replaced, inventory, and parts on order
- Communicate with customers and technicians to identify necessary parts and equipment
- Process customer orders and recommend additional related repair items
- Manage parts inventory and reorder parts as needed
- Inspect delivered parts and compare with invoices to ensure correctness of order
- Work with parts suppliers to get quotes and place orders
- Assist in organizing and maintaining the parts storage area
- Coordinate with shipping companies to manage deliveries and returns
- Perform data entry and administrative duties such as filing and managing paperwork
Parts Clerk Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are in search of a detailed-oriented Parts Clerk to manage the parts inventory of our organization.
Responsibilities will include keeping a record of parts for various machinery and equipment, ordering parts as needed, and maintaining relevant documentation.
The ideal candidate should be well-organized, have excellent record-keeping skills and have a basic understanding of mechanical parts.
Familiarity with inventory management software will be an added advantage.
The primary goal of the Parts Clerk is to ensure that the organization has necessary parts available for its operational needs at all times.
Responsibilities
- Manage and maintain parts inventory
- Order parts as per the requirements of the organization
- Record and track the movement of parts
- Coordinate with vendors and suppliers
- Ensure accurate documentation of all transactions
- Conduct regular inventory audits
- Identify and address any discrepancies in the inventory
- Organize the parts storage area for ease of access
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Parts Clerk or similar role
- Familiarity with various types of mechanical parts
- Proficient in inventory management software
- Excellent record-keeping skills
- Basic understanding of supply chain procedures
- High school diploma or equivalent qualification
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Parts Clerk
- Work Environment: Warehouse setting. Some physical labor may be required, including lifting heavy objects.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Inventory Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Parts Clerk Do?
Parts Clerks work primarily within industries that involve machinery, vehicles, or equipment, such as manufacturing, automotive, or equipment rental industries.
Their primary responsibility is to manage, organize, and distribute parts and supplies needed for repairs and maintenance.
They receive and stock incoming parts, as well as keep an inventory to ensure that required parts are always available.
Parts Clerks also work closely with mechanics or technicians to provide them with the necessary parts for their work.
They identify the correct parts needed for a job and ensure they are in proper working condition.
In addition, they may also handle tasks related to customer service, such as helping customers or employees find the correct parts, answering queries about parts availability, and processing orders.
Some Parts Clerks may also be responsible for negotiating with suppliers and vendors to get the best prices for parts and supplies, and managing returns of defective parts.
Accuracy and attention to detail are crucial in this role, as providing incorrect parts can lead to costly delays or equipment failure.
Parts Clerk Qualifications and Skills
Parts Clerks should possess a unique blend of skills and qualifications to efficiently manage inventory, assist customers, and coordinate with suppliers and mechanics, including:
- Strong organizational skills to effectively manage and monitor parts inventory, ensuring items are well-stocked and easily accessible.
- Technical knowledge of a wide variety of vehicle parts and machinery components to help customers and mechanics find the right item for their needs.
- Excellent interpersonal skills to communicate and coordinate with mechanics, suppliers, and customers, fostering positive relationships.
- Detail-oriented to ensure accuracy in inventory management, order placement, and in fulfilling customer or mechanic requests.
- Problem-solving skills to help identify the correct parts or components needed for specific repairs or projects.
- Customer service skills to assist customers and address their queries or concerns effectively and courteously.
- Basic computer skills to use inventory management software, placing orders, and to check parts availability.
- Physical abilities to lift heavy parts, boxes, or equipment, and to navigate the parts storage area.
Parts Clerk Experience Requirements
Parts Clerks are typically required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring candidates who have further education in a relevant field such as logistics or supply chain management.
For entry-level positions, employers may not require any specific experience, although having at least a year of experience in a customer service or warehouse setting can be beneficial.
Those seeking to advance in their careers as Parts Clerks may benefit from having 2 to 3 years of experience in parts inventory management or a related role.
Experience with specific inventory management software or systems may also be beneficial.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience in a Parts Clerk or related role may have developed expertise in parts identification, procurement, and inventory management.
They may also have experience in leading teams or managing an entire parts department.
Some employers may require Parts Clerks to have specific certifications, such as a Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) credential, which can be obtained with a combination of experience and education.
Additionally, Parts Clerks should have strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills, as they often interact with customers, suppliers, and other staff members.
They should also be detail-oriented and able to work independently.
Parts Clerk Education and Training Requirements
Parts Clerks typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.
They need to have good understanding of inventory management and have knowledge about different types of parts used in the specific industry they are working in.
There are no specific post-secondary degree requirements, but coursework or a certificate in inventory management, logistics, or a related field can be beneficial.
Parts Clerks need to have good computer skills as they often use computer programs to manage inventory.
They also require strong customer service skills, as they often interact with customers, suppliers and other departments within their organization.
Although not a necessity, some parts clerks may opt for a certification program in areas like Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) to advance their careers.
On-the-job training is usually provided to parts clerks to familiarize them with the specific inventory systems and procedures used in the organization.
Parts Clerk Salary Expectations
A Parts Clerk can expect to earn an average salary of $34,000 (USD) per year.
The actual salary can vary based on factors such as years of experience, the industry of employment, and the geographical location.
Parts Clerk Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Parts Clerk need?
Parts Clerks should possess strong organizational and inventory management skills to keep track of various items.
They should have good communication skills to interact with both customers and suppliers, and a keen attention to detail to ensure the correct parts are provided or ordered.
Technical knowledge about various parts and their applications is also crucial.
Do Parts Clerks need a specific degree?
Parts Clerks don’t necessarily need a degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is usually required.
Courses or certifications in inventory management, automotive parts or a related field may be beneficial.
Practical experience in a similar role often holds more weight than formal education in this field.
What should you look for in a Parts Clerk resume?
Look for experience in parts management or a related field.
Knowledge of inventory management software and experience with ordering parts or managing stock can be beneficial.
Additionally, candidates with customer service experience or knowledge about specific parts used in your industry can be an asset.
What qualities make a good Parts Clerk?
A good Parts Clerk is organized, detail-oriented, and has strong communication skills.
They should be able to manage inventory efficiently, order parts as needed and deal with suppliers effectively.
Additionally, they should have a good understanding of the parts used in your industry and be able to advise customers or staff on their use.
Is it challenging to hire a Parts Clerk?
The challenge in hiring a Parts Clerk depends largely on the specific requirements of the role.
While it might not be hard to find candidates with general skills such as organization and customer service, finding those with specific knowledge about your industry’s parts could be more challenging.
Therefore, it’s important to clearly define what knowledge and skills are necessary for the job.
Conclusion
So, that sums it up.
Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the dynamic world of a parts clerk.
And guess what?
It’s not just about managing inventory.
It’s about being the backbone of efficient operations, one part at a time.
With our comprehensive parts clerk job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.
But why stop here?
Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating perfect job listings or refining your resume to sheer excellence.
Remember:
Every part is a piece of a larger machinery.
Let’s keep that machinery running. Together.
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