Inventory, stock

What does a stock inventory clerk do? – Tasks and work environment

A stock inventory clerk is responsible for counting, checking, and recording inventory items, often in larger logistics or wholesale environments. Tasks include ensuring that goods are in the correct quantity and location, managing discrepancies in stock levels, and reporting shortages or damages. The work is often performed using digital warehouse systems and handheld computers, and can involve both independent work and teamwork. The work environment includes warehouse premises that may be cold or noisy, with frequent heavy lifting and shift work, especially during intensive inventory periods.

Salary development over time

The salary for a stock inventory clerk has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,000 SEK per month, rising to 32 100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 33 400 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.7% over the period. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased digitalization and demands for more efficient warehouse management, along with heightened competition for logistics workers. Although salary growth is relatively stable, it is influenced by factors such as region, employer sector, and education level. Women's salaries have approached men's, but differences still remain.

Inventory clerk, warehouse salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,900 SEK/month (male, government sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, at least 3 years of post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK
• Men's average salary: 33 600 SEK
• Women's average salary: 32 700 SEK
• Women earn: 97% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a stock inventory clerk, typically no extensive formal education is required, but a high school diploma in areas such as commerce, logistics, or technology is often preferred. Many employers offer internal training in specific warehouse systems and routines, and practical experience from warehouse work or logistics is considered advantageous. Skills such as precision, digital competence, and physical endurance are important qualities.

• High school education: Business and administration programs or similar (3 years)
• Internal courses: Introduction to warehouse management and digital systems
• Internship/trainee: Common during employment
• Experience: Previous warehouse or logistics work is advantageous
• Pre-requisites: Basic Swedish and math skills, good physical condition

Common benefits and compensations

Inventory clerks are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and night shifts, wellness allowances, overtime compensation, and collective agreement insurances. Other common compensations include staff discounts, meal subsidies, or free work clothing. Pension schemes and collective insurance agreements are usually included in employment.

Competition and challenges

The job market for inventory clerks is currently characterized by a surplus, with more applicants than available positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for warehouse and terminal staff, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, meaning competition for jobs will persist. Challenges in the profession include physically demanding tasks, monotonous work, and shift work, which can impact health and well-being. Digitalization increases the requirement for technical skills, and employers seek workers who can quickly learn new systems. Despite the surplus, regional variations and periods of higher demand exist, especially before major inventories and in regions with high e-commerce activity.

Tips for those wanting to become a stock inventory clerk

To succeed as a stock inventory clerk, it is important to be precise and systematic, as the work requires accuracy in counting and recording. Good teamwork skills facilitate inventory work in teams, while flexibility helps manage shift work and varying hours. Physical endurance is crucial since tasks often involve standing or walking for long periods and lifting or moving items. Technical interest and the ability to quickly learn digital warehouse systems are also advantageous. Clear communication and reporting of discrepancies are valued by employers, and showing engagement can lead to further development within logistics.

Key facts about Inventory clerks, warehouse

• Education level: High school diploma, often in commerce/logistics
• Work environment: Warehouse facilities, often shift or evening/night shifts
• Demand: Limited opportunities, surplus of labor
• Number of available jobs: 412 in the profession (May 2024)
• Technical requirements: Experience with digital warehouse systems needed

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years as a stock inventory clerk, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles such as warehouse manager, team leader, or logistics coordinator. Some choose to further their education in logistics, supply chain management, or transportation planning, which can lead to more qualified positions in the industry. The Swedish Public Employment Service estimates that opportunities for warehouse and terminal work are limited, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Digitalization and automation may further influence the profession, but the fundamental demand for precise inventory clerks is expected to persist, especially in larger logistics centers and within e-commerce.

Frequently asked questions about Inventory clerks, warehouse

• What does a stock inventory clerk earn?
  - The average salary is 33 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a stock inventory clerk?
  - High school education in commerce or logistics is most common, but many employers offer internal training.
• What is the job market like for stock inventory clerks?
  - The competition is relatively high with a surplus of applicants and limited job opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowances, overtime compensation, and collective agreement insurances.
• How does the region affect the salary for stock inventory clerks?
  - Salary levels can vary between urban and rural areas, but the national average is 33 400 SEK.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - Advancement to roles such as warehouse manager, team leader, or further education within logistics is possible.