Receiving Clerk Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of logistics, the role of the receiving clerk has become increasingly critical.

As the flow of goods accelerates, the demand for skilled individuals who can efficiently manage, track, and ensure the integrity of incoming shipments is greater than ever.

But what exactly is expected of a receiving clerk?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this position,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect job specification,
• Or simply intrigued by the behind-the-scenes operations of a receiving department,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s delve right into it.

Receiving Clerk Duties and Responsibilities

Receiving Clerks play a crucial role in warehouse operations by managing incoming deliveries and ensuring the goods are in good condition and correctly accounted for.

They also handle paperwork and data entry relating to the received goods.

Their typical duties and responsibilities include:

• Inspecting and signing off on deliveries from vendors, verifying that the correct items and quantities have been delivered
• Performing quality assurance inspections to ensure the items received are in good condition and meet the company’s standards
• Updating inventory records using computerized systems, ensuring that the inventory is accurate and up-to-date
• Organizing and storing received items in the appropriate areas of the warehouse
• Coordinating with purchasing department regarding discrepancies between ordered and received goods
• Preparing and maintaining detailed receiving logs for management review
• Coordinating the return of damaged goods or shipment errors to suppliers
• Packing, labeling and preparing orders for shipment when needed
• Maintaining a clean and organized work area, following health and safety regulations

 

Receiving Clerk Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Receiving Clerk to manage the receipt of all incoming products and materials.

The Receiving Clerk’s responsibilities include verifying the accuracy of orders upon delivery, inspecting the condition of products, and updating records and databases with received items.

Our ideal candidate is familiar with inventory management software and has excellent organizational skills.

Ultimately, the role of the Receiving Clerk is to ensure that all deliveries are received, organized, and stored correctly in our warehouse to maintain efficiency and productivity.

 

Responsibilities

• Receive, inspect and sign for deliveries.
• Compare purchase orders with invoices and packaging lists.
• Update inventory and ensure that stock levels are kept at appropriate levels.
• Arrange items in the warehouse and maintain cleanliness of the area.
• Process returns due to damages or incorrect shipments.
• Prepare and maintain records of received goods.
• Communicate with suppliers, receivers, drivers, and staff for smooth operations.
• Report discrepancies between the order and the received shipment.
• Follow safety regulations in the warehouse.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Receiving Clerk or a similar role in warehousing.
• Good understanding of inventory management procedures.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items.
• Good communication and organizational skills.
• Basic math and recording abilities.
• Excellent physical condition.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Receiving Clerk
• Work Environment: Warehouse setting, requiring physical labor and use of protective gear when necessary. Some overtime might be required during peak seasons.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Warehouse 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 Receiving Clerk Do?

Receiving Clerks work in warehouses, distribution centers, or retail stores, handling all incoming deliveries to the business.

They manage a wide variety of tasks to ensure that all incoming products are correctly processed.

Their primary responsibilities include unloading trucks, checking in merchandise, matching purchase orders to sales orders, and organizing the inventory.

They must inspect deliveries to ensure they match order and invoice criteria, rejecting any damaged items.

Receiving Clerks also keep records of incoming shipments, including details about discrepancies or issues with the received goods.

They may also be responsible for organizing the storage areas to ensure that products are easily accessible and safe from damage.

In some cases, Receiving Clerks also play a role in inventory control, helping keep stock levels accurate and reporting any issues to their supervisors.

Their role is crucial to maintaining efficient operations, as they are the first line of defense in preventing incorrect or unsatisfactory goods from entering the business’s inventory or going out to the customers.

 

Receiving Clerk Qualifications and Skills

A competent receiving clerk should possess the following skills and qualifications that align with the job responsibilities:

• Strong organizational and time management skills to keep track of inventory and deliveries in a timely manner
• Detail-oriented and ability to maintain accurate records of received goods, spotting discrepancies and preventing losses
• Physical endurance and strength to lift and move heavy items when necessary
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to coordinate with delivery personnel, suppliers, and internal staff
• Ability to operate warehouse machinery like forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks safely
• Proficiency in inventory software, databases, and systems to record and track incoming shipments
• Good mathematical skills to count, add, subtract, and perform other basic arithmetic operations for inventory management
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues related to deliveries, invoices, and inventory discrepancies
• Customer service skills to respond to internal queries about stock and delivery times

 

Receiving Clerk Experience Requirements

Entry-level receiving clerks typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers providing on-the-job training.

Although not always required, 1-2 years of experience in warehouse operations or a similar environment can be beneficial.

Candidates with intermediate experience, generally 2-4 years, are often expected to have a good understanding of warehouse operations, and proficiency in using warehouse equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, or barcode scanners.

They may also be expected to be familiar with inventory management software.

Receiving clerks with over 5 years of experience often have excellent organizational and multitasking skills, developed from handling a high volume of incoming shipments.

They may also have experience in supervising or training less experienced staff members.

Such candidates may be considered for supervisory or managerial roles within the receiving department.

 

Receiving Clerk Education and Training Requirements

A Receiving Clerk typically requires a high school diploma or its equivalent for entry-level positions.

They may undergo on-the-job training to familiarize themselves with company-specific software, procedures and standards.

This usually involves understanding the ins and outs of inventory tracking, order verification, and warehouse organization.

Knowledge of basic computer software like Microsoft Office Suite and inventory software can be beneficial.

Some companies might require familiarity with specific inventory management systems.

Although not typically required, some Receiving Clerks may pursue a certificate in supply chain or inventory management to improve their job prospects and performance.

For those looking to advance into managerial positions, an associate or bachelor’s degree in logistics, business management, or a related field may be beneficial.

Soft skills like attention to detail, organization skills, and the ability to communicate effectively are also important for a Receiving Clerk.

 

Receiving Clerk Salary Expectations

A Receiving Clerk earns an average of $34,050 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary may vary based on the individual’s level of experience, the size and nature of the company, and the geographical location.

 

Receiving Clerk Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Receiving Clerk need?

Receiving Clerks should possess strong organizational and multitasking skills to manage various shipments effectively.

They should have basic computer literacy to manage inventories and maintain records.

They also need to have keen attention to detail to verify incoming shipments against invoices or other documents, detect discrepancies, and ensure that the received goods are undamaged.

 

Do Receiving Clerks need a degree?

Most Receiving Clerk positions don’t require a degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is usually necessary.

Some employers may favor candidates with previous work experience in inventory control or in a warehouse setting.

Higher education such as a degree in business or logistics can be beneficial for advancement in the field.

 

What should you look for in a Receiving Clerk resume?

A Receiving Clerk’s resume should indicate a strong understanding of inventory control and warehouse operations.

Experience using warehouse equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks is a plus.

They should also have basic computer skills for inventory tracking and data entry.

Look for candidates who have demonstrated attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

 

What qualities make a good Receiving Clerk?

A good Receiving Clerk is efficient, organized, and detail-oriented.

They are able to manage their time effectively to ensure that all received shipments are processed and documented promptly.

Good Receiving Clerks also have strong problem-solving skills to deal with issues that can arise during the receiving process.

They also need to be physically fit as the job often involves lifting heavy items.

 

How demanding is the job of a Receiving Clerk?

The job of a Receiving Clerk can be physically demanding as it involves lifting heavy packages, standing for long periods, and sometimes working in uncomfortable conditions.

The role also requires a significant level of attention to detail and the ability to multi-task as they are often handling multiple shipments at once.

However, with good organizational skills and efficient work methods, a Receiving Clerk can handle these demands effectively.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the world of a receiving clerk.

And guess what?

It’s not just about handling deliveries.

It’s about creating a seamless inventory flow, one delivery at a time.

With our comprehensive receiving clerk job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Continue your journey with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for crafting precision-targeted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every delivery processed is a part of the bigger inventory picture.

Let’s create that seamless inventory flow. Together.

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