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Cashier

Also known as Checkout Operator.

Cashiers receive cash, cheques or credit/debit card payments, record these payments using cash registers or electronic equipment and provide change to customers.

Shiftwork and irregular hours may be involved. Most cashiers are employed on a part-time or casual basis.

In most workplaces you will need to use computer systems for sales or payment processing.

TASKS

Cashiers may perform the following tasks:

receive goods selected by the customer and operate cash registers
talk with other staff where there is doubt about a particular price
receive payment for goods from customers and provide change as shown by the electronic cash register
weigh, wrap or pack goods and remove price tags and special security tabs
help customers find products in the store
price items with a price gun and rotate stock by bringing the old stock forward on the shelves during quieter times
process payment for accounts such as telephone or electricity bills and issue receipts
work out totals for cash and other takings at the end of each working day
count and prepare money for deposit in a bank or building society
keep records of amounts received and paid, and regularly check the cash balance against this record
operate automatic ticket-issuing machines and other computerised equipment

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy clerical and administrative tasks
able to work quickly and accurately
confidence in handling money
good communication skills
good customer service skills

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Office Cashier - receives and banks takings and makes payments in an office. In addition to receiving payments from customers, they may prepare wages or arrange for electronic transfer of funds, count and record monies received, balance takings against register sales records and produce periodic sales reports.

Service Station Cashier - receives payments by cash, cheque and credit/debit cards for petrol and other merchandise at service stations, balances takings against register sales records and gives basic assistance and advice to customers.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a cashier without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

You can also become a cashier through a traineeship in Retail Services.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Retail Services Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.