Processing clerks, also known as order clerks, help businesses fulfill product and service orders. When consumers make purchases, processing clerks enter the order details into a computerized system and assist in ensuring the items are delivered properly. These jobs are found within a variety of industries, including clothing and furnishings. With basic data entry skills and an attention to detail, you can have a career as a processing clerk

The Necessary Skills

Basic computer and keyboard skills are important for aspiring processing clerks. You must be able to type efficiently and accurately. Good communication skills are also vital when speaking with customers and colleagues. Because you are collecting and providing data, you must demonstrate good listening skills and convey information correctly. Customer service skills are important as well. As a processing clerk, you should treat patrons with respect and look for ways to meet their needs. Since you will often speak to customers by telephone, a clear speaking voice is also necessary.

Daily Processing Duties

Processing clerks work in a variety of environments, depending on the products and services of the employer. They might work from a small office inside of a large warehouse or in a large, standalone office among numerous order takers. Speaking with customers is a daily duty of the processing clerk. They answer calls and collect order information. Customers might include individual shoppers or other businesses. While taking orders, clerks use the computer database to check for the availability of products. They also check shipping details, including mailing addresses and estimated delivery dates. Clerks also ensure that all requested items are included in the shipment before it is sent to the customer.

Completing the Process

Once an order is taken, the processing clerk ensures that the requested merchandise is moved from the warehouse to the distribution or delivery area. She might communicate with inventory clerks, notifying them of any particularly large orders so they have more time to fulfill the orders. When there are problems with the order, like if a product is out of stock or its price has changed, the processing clerk might call the customer to inform him of the issue and work out a resolution. According to the career planning website, Careerplanner.com, some industries require processing clerks to decide which orders take priorities when supplies are limited.

Landing the Job

While some processing clerks have a college degree, an advanced education is usually not required. Most processing clerks have a high school diploma or equivalent, according to O_Net Online. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as of May 2013, the most jobs for order clerks were in the electronic shopping and mail order industry. The average pay was $15.33 an hour or $31,880 a year. Employment prospects are not ideal. The number of jobs for processing clerks is expected to decline by 3 percent between 2012 and 2022, according to O_Net Online.