Produce Clerk Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of retail, the focus on produce clerks has never been more important.

The demand for fresh, quality produce increases with each passing day, and the call for skilled individuals who can manage, maintain, and ensure the quality of our produce section is stronger than ever.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a produce clerk?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager detailing the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the daily operations of a produce department,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable produce clerk job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Produce Clerk Duties and Responsibilities

Produce Clerks are responsible for managing the fruits and vegetables section of grocery stores or supermarkets.

Their duties include organizing displays, stocking produce, and assisting customers with any queries about the products.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Receive and inspect deliveries of fresh produce, checking for quality and accuracy
• Stock and arrange fruits and vegetables on display shelves and in refrigerated sections
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the produce area, storage rooms, and all related equipment
• Use knowledge of produce and products to assist customers with selection, preparation, and cooking recommendations
• Ensure all produce is fresh, and remove any items that do not meet quality standards
• Manage produce inventory and place orders as needed
• Apply proper labeling and pricing to all produce
• Assist with customer services, such as carrying out groceries or locating items
• Follow all health and safety regulations as per the guidelines of the store and local, state, and federal laws

 

Produce Clerk Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Produce Clerk to assist in the operations of our grocery store’s produce department.

The Produce Clerk responsibilities include receiving and inspecting deliveries, maintaining fresh produce, and assisting customers with their product selection and inquiries.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of quality fresh produce, is customer service-oriented, and has good communication skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist customers with their produce selection and inquiries
• Maintain and restock produce displays as needed
• Ensure freshness of produce, removing any damaged or spoiled items
• Receive and inspect deliveries, ensuring the quality of produce
• Maintain clean and organized produce department
• Assist with inventory control and ordering supplies
• Adhere to food safety and sanitation procedures

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a grocery or retail environment preferred
• Knowledge of fresh produce, including seasonal items
• Strong customer service skills
• Effective communication skills
• Physical stamina and the ability to lift heavy items
• Basic math skills for weighing and pricing produce
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health and Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee discounts
• Opportunities for advancement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Produce Clerk
• Work Environment: Retail store, primarily in the produce department. This position involves physical activities like lifting, standing for long periods, and handling fresh produce.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Produce Department Manager or Store Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $22,000 minimum to $32,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time or Part-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 Produce Clerk Do?

Produce Clerks work primarily in grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets.

They are responsible for ensuring that the produce section of the store is well-stocked and presentable to customers.

They receive, unload, and unpack produce, checking the quality of fruits and vegetables and removing any that are damaged or of low quality.

They may also be responsible for rotating produce to ensure that older items are sold first, reducing waste and loss of product.

Produce Clerks help maintain the store’s produce displays, keeping them tidy, attractive, and easy to navigate for shoppers.

They may also need to restock shelves during store hours and make sure that the produce area is clean and sanitary.

In addition to these tasks, Produce Clerks may also assist customers with their questions about produce, providing information about the origin of the produce, nutritional facts, or advice on selecting and preparing items.

They may also assist in processing customer purchases, weighing items, and bagging produce.

In many stores, Produce Clerks also have to follow food safety regulations, ensuring that the produce is stored at the correct temperature and that all produce handling equipment is clean and safe to use.

 

Produce Clerk Qualifications and Skills

A proficient produce clerk should possess the skills and qualifications that meet the requirements of the job role, such as:

• Exceptional customer service skills to provide assistance and respond to customer inquiries in a friendly and efficient manner.
• Strong knowledge of different types of fruits, vegetables, and other produce to help customers make informed choices.
• Inventory management skills to maintain and restock produce displays, ensuring the availability of fresh items at all times.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously for smooth operation of the produce department.
• Physical stamina and strength to stand for long hours, lift heavy boxes, and perform other physically demanding tasks related to the job.
• Attention to detail to ensure the quality and freshness of produce, detect any signs of spoilage, and remove unsuitable items.
• Basic mathematical skills to weigh items, handle transactions, and accurately provide change to customers.
• Good communication skills to interact effectively with customers, understand their needs, and offer suitable recommendations.

 

Produce Clerk Experience Requirements

Produce Clerks often begin their roles with little to no experience, with most of their training occurring on the job.

However, some may gain initial experience through part-time work during high school or an internship at a grocery store or market.

As they progress, Produce Clerks with 1 to 2 years of experience should have gained a significant understanding of produce inventory management, product quality control, and customer service.

They are expected to be familiar with handling, storing, and rotating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, following hygiene and safety regulations.

Produce Clerks with 3 or more years of experience often have developed skills in creating appealing product displays, managing waste and shrinkage, and training other staff members.

They may also have experience in ordering and receiving produce shipments, ensuring inventory is well-stocked and fresh.

Those with over 5 years of experience are typically ready for supervisory roles within the produce department or other areas of a grocery store.

At this level, they may be expected to handle scheduling, budgeting, and overall department management tasks.

 

Produce Clerk Education and Training Requirements

Produce Clerks typically require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational requirement.

They gain most of their skills through on-the-job training, which involves learning how to handle, store, and prepare fresh produce.

Training also includes learning about food safety regulations, understanding how to interact with customers, and mastering point-of-sale systems for billing and inventory management.

While not mandatory, some produce clerks may choose to attend vocational training programs in grocery or retail operations, which can provide a broader understanding of the industry.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a certification in food handling or food safety, especially for roles that involve more responsibility.

Additionally, the ability to speak multiple languages can be advantageous in this role, as it allows the clerk to communicate effectively with a diverse range of customers.

Overall, the most successful Produce Clerks are those who are committed to ongoing learning about new products and industry regulations.

 

Produce Clerk Salary Expectations

A Produce Clerk typically earns an average wage of $12.70 (USD) per hour.

However, this can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific grocery or retail store they work for.

 

Produce Clerk Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Produce Clerk need?

A Produce Clerk should possess excellent customer service skills to handle customer inquiries and complaints effectively.

They should have good knowledge of different fruits, vegetables and other produce to provide relevant information to customers.

Attention to detail and organization skills are also essential for stocking, rotating, and maintaining the fresh produce display.

 

Do Produce Clerks need a specific degree?

Produce Clerks don’t need a specific degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often required.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a background in retail or customer service.

On-the-job training is usually provided to help them understand the store’s procedures and produce details.

 

What should you look for in a Produce Clerk resume?

A Produce Clerk’s resume should highlight their customer service skills, as this role requires constant interaction with customers.

Relevant experience in retail or in a similar role can also be a strong asset.

Attention to detail and organization skills are vital for maintaining fresh produce displays, so any evidence of these skills should be considered.

 

What qualities make a good Produce Clerk?

A good Produce Clerk should be friendly, helpful, and patient in assisting customers with their needs and inquiries.

They should be diligent and detail-oriented to ensure the produce is fresh, well-stocked, and appealingly displayed.

They should also possess strong physical stamina as the job often requires lifting heavy boxes, and standing for extended periods.

 

Is it challenging to find qualified Produce Clerks?

Finding qualified Produce Clerks can be a challenge as it requires a unique combination of customer service skills, physical stamina, and knowledge of produce.

However, with a well-written job description emphasizing the necessary skills and offering competitive benefits, you can attract the right candidates for the role.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unearthed the true essence of being a produce clerk.

Surprising, right?

It’s not all about stacking fruits and vegetables.

It’s about fostering health and wellness, one produce item at a time.

With our handy produce clerk job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make a move.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating detail-oriented job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every piece of produce is a part of a healthier lifestyle.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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