FAQ
Order Clerk FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an order clerk.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an order clerk: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about order clerks
Is the job declining?
BLS projects a steep decline.
Do order clerks need a degree?
No, some college is typical.
What’s a path forward?
Inside sales or customer service leadership.
How much does an order clerk make?
The median annual wage for order clerks was $46,170 ($22.20 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $35,530 and the highest 10% earned more than $63,530.
How long does it take to become an order clerk?
Most people need about A few weeks on the job of training. Some college is typical, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Do you need a degree to be an order clerk?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “some college, no degree” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is order clerk a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -17.5% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 6,300 openings each year. Upsides include short training; a common challenge is that steep decline.
What skills does an order clerk need?
Key technical skills include order entry, erp systems, inventory checking, and pricing. Employers also value accuracy, courtesy, and organization.
What certifications are available for order clerks?
Common credentials include Customer service certificate, Excel certification, ERP training, and Typing certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Order Clerk fit quiz, compare with Customer Service Representative, or explore Order Clerk training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-4151 (Order clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Order clerks (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.