Salesman, shop assistant, building materials etc.

What does a salesperson in a building materials store do? – Tasks and work environment

A salesperson or store clerk in building materials is responsible for providing service and advice to customers seeking materials, tools, and accessories for construction projects. Tasks include helping private customers find the right products and handling larger orders for professional tradespeople. The profession often involves working in a retail environment with varied duties such as stock replenishment, cash handling, and warehouse work. Since building materials retail can be physically demanding, lifting and transporting heavier goods are common, and the work pace can be high during certain periods, especially in peak season.

Salary development over time

The salary for a salesperson or store clerk in building materials has shown positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK, increasing in 2023 to 31 900 SEK and reaching 33 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 9.4% during the period. The salary increase reflects both general collective agreements and continued demand for skilled retail staff in building materials. The market has been stable, but some competition for labor has pushed wages upward, especially in regions with expanding construction industries.

Salary overview for Salesperson, store clerk, building materials etc.

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (men), 32,100 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (men), 35,800 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 203 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (34 700 SEK/month for men, 33 200 SEK/month for women)
• Regional differences: Salaries vary depending on region and employer, with somewhat higher wages in certain sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as a salesperson or store clerk in building materials, no formal higher education is required, but a high school diploma in commerce, sales, or construction is common. Practical knowledge of building materials and good customer service skills are highly valued. Many employers offer internal training and introductory programs for new hires, and there are opportunities to develop skills through courses and certifications in areas such as safety or product knowledge.

• High school education: Business and administration or Construction and civil engineering programs (3 years)
• Internal training: Introduction and product training offered by employers
• Certifications: Courses in work environment, lifting techniques, safety
• Internships: Common through high school programs or trainee schemes
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish language skills and basic math, customer service experience is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Salespeople and store clerks in building materials retail are often offered benefits such as staff discounts on store products, wellness allowances, bonus or commission systems, and opportunities for training and skill development. Some employers include insurance, pension contributions, and sometimes subsidized meals or work shoes.

Competition and challenges

The job market for salespeople and store clerks in building materials is characterized by high demand but also recruitment difficulties due to many working part-time or seeking other industries. Competition for full-time permanent positions can be intense, especially in larger cities. At the same time, high demands are placed on service, product knowledge, and the ability to handle stressful periods. Digitalization and increased e-commerce also impose new requirements for flexibility, technical understanding, and adaptability among store staff.

Tips for those wanting to become a salesperson in building materials retail

To succeed as a salesperson or store clerk focused on building materials, being outgoing and service-oriented is beneficial, facilitating interactions with customers and colleagues. Having a genuine interest in building materials and technical solutions makes it easier to quickly learn the product range and provide correct advice. Attention to detail is important, especially when handling orders and inventory. Flexibility is needed to manage varied tasks and working hours, while resilience helps during peak seasons or major campaigns. Taking initiative and a willingness to learn new things are also crucial for development and being a valued employee in the store.

Key facts about Salesperson, store clerk, building materials etc.

• Education level: High school diploma (commerce, sales, or construction)
• Work environment: Retail setting with physical demands and customer contact
• Work arrangements: Full-time, part-time, and shift work are common
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Product knowledge of building materials is highly valued

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a salesperson or store clerk in building materials, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as department manager, store manager, or sales to corporate clients. Experienced employees often move into supervisory positions or specialize in certain product areas. According to the Swedish Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Despite some competition for permanent positions, recruitment difficulties and many job openings make the outlook stable for those wishing to work in the industry.

Frequently asked questions about Salesperson, store clerk, building materials etc.

• What does a salesperson, store clerk, building materials clerk, etc. earn?
  - The average salary is 33 800 SEK/month, with variations depending on experience, region, and gender.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, men earn on average 34 700 SEK/month while women earn 33 200 SEK/month, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to work as a salesperson in building materials retail?
  - High school education in commerce or construction is common, but internal training opportunities with the employer are also available.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are considered plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What tasks are included in the job?
  - Tasks include customer service, stock replenishment, cash handling, advising, and sometimes warehouse work.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries vary depending on region and employer, with somewhat higher wages in certain sectors.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to department manager, store manager, or specialized sales roles.