Cashier, shop

What does a cashier in a store do? – Tasks and work environment

A cashier in a store is responsible for handling payments from customers, managing the cash register system, and ensuring that the payment process runs smoothly and accurately. Tasks also include providing good service, answering customer questions, packing goods, and sometimes assisting with simple stock work or restocking shelves. The work environment is often characterized by a fast pace, where many interactions with different customers require patience and accuracy. Cashiers usually work in retail settings, with scheduled hours that can include evenings and weekends, and the working position often involves standing for most of the day.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary development for a cashier in a store has shown a steady increase. In 2022, the average salary was 27,900 SEK per month, which increased to 29 300 SEK in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 shows a continued rise to 30 100 SEK, representing a total salary increase of approximately 8% during the period. This trend reflects a general salary trend in retail, where increased demands for service and work experience have positively influenced salary levels. Despite increased competition in the job market, demand for cash register staff has remained relatively stable, contributing to salary adjustments in line with inflation and market conditions.

Cashier, store salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (men), 29,100 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (men), 30,800 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 181 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found in the regional sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a cashier in a store, usually no higher education is required, but high school education is often a basic requirement by employers. Practical skills and good customer service are highly valued, and many workplaces offer internal training or introductory programs for new employees. There are also opportunities to supplement with short courses or certifications in cash handling or customer interaction.

• High school education: Business and Administration program (3 years)
• Internal training: Introductory programs at the employer
• Courses/certifications: Cash handling, service, and customer interaction
• Internship: Common during high school education or summer jobs
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish, basic math and computer skills

Common benefits and compensations

Cashiers in stores are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay for evening and weekend work, as well as holiday pay and occupational pension. Other common benefits may include staff discounts, wellness contributions, and opportunities for skill development through internal training. The extent of benefits varies between employers and often depends on the size of the retail chain and whether the employment is full- or part-time.

Competition and challenges

The job market for cashiers in stores today is characterized by high competition and an oversupply of applicants. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, opportunities for employment are small, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Automation and self-service systems have reduced the need for cash register staff in some stores, while service demands have increased. This places higher demands on flexibility and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, which can be challenging for newcomers. Despite these challenges, there are still around 550 job openings nationally, demonstrating ongoing demand, especially during peak seasons and staff turnover.

Tips for those wanting to become a cashier in a store

To succeed as a cashier in a store, it is good to combine strong service skills with the ability to quickly learn new routines. Being accurate and stress-resistant helps during busy times and when queues grow, while good communication skills facilitate interactions with various customers. Flexibility is an important trait, especially as tasks can vary from day to day and working hours are often irregular. A good mood and patience make it easier to handle demanding customers and contribute to a positive work environment. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new systems or take on extra responsibilities can increase chances for advancement within the company. Always putting the customer first and being helpful builds trust and repeat business. Finally, staying updated on the store’s products and offers helps provide the best possible service.

Key facts about Cashier, store

• Education level: High school education (3 years) most common
• Work environment: Retail, fast pace, lots of customer contact
• Work type: Shift work, often evenings and weekends
• Demand: Small opportunities, oversupply of applicants
• Special skills: Cash handling, customer service, stress resistance

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a cashier in a store, opportunities may exist to advance to roles such as sales associate with more responsibility, department manager, or team leader. Some choose to further their education in sales or retail to move into store management or administrative roles. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, however, opportunities for employment in the cashier profession are small, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Automation and digitalization will influence future prospects, but experience at the register is often a valuable credential for other service roles and can serve as a stepping stone further within the retail sector.

Common questions about Cashier, store

• What does a cashier in a store earn?
  - A cashier in a store has an average salary of 30 100 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 99% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a cashier?
  - High school education, often the Business and Administration program, is the most common.
• Are there many job openings for cashiers?
  - There are approximately 550 job openings nationally in the profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The Employment Service assesses the opportunities for employment as small and demand is expected to remain unchanged.
• What are the working hours for a cashier?
  - Working hours are often shift-based and include evenings and weekends.
• How does work experience affect salary?
  - Longer experience and responsibility can lead to higher salary or development opportunities within the store.