Counter and Rental Clerks

Receive orders, generally in person, for repairs, rentals, and services. May describe available options, compute cost, and accept payment.

SOC: 41-2021.00

Common Job Titles

  • Counter Clerk
  • Rental Agent
  • Rental Sales Representative
  • Video Clerk

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • MindsetEngage customers requesting repairs, rentals, and services in person at service counters, demonstrating attentiveness and responsiveness to customer needs.
  • KnowledgeExplain available service options, rental terms, and product features to customers making purchase or rental decisions, ensuring clarity and comprehension.
  • KnowledgeCompute costs, fees, and payment totals for rental and service orders using point-of-sale systems and pricing schedules, ensuring accuracy.
  • Hands-onOperate cash registers, credit card processing machines, and barcode scanners to process customer transactions efficiently and accurately.
  • KnowledgeApply inventory management systems and databases to track rental equipment availability, reservation status, and return schedules.
  • Hands-onExecute documentation and recording of customer orders, rental agreements, and service requests using computers and administrative software to maintain accurate records.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze customer needs and equipment requirements through active listening and questioning to recommend appropriate rental or service solutions.
  • MindsetRespond to customer complaints, conflicts, and negotiation requests with professionalism and problem-solving orientation to achieve mutually satisfactory resolutions.
  • Hands-onPerform inspection of returned rental equipment and materials to assess condition, identify damage, and determine appropriate charges or refunds.
  • KnowledgeApply persuasion and sales techniques to influence customer decisions regarding upgraded services, extended rentals, or additional products.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Counter and Rental Clerks (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

398,620

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $28,580. 25th percentile: U.S. $34,200. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,540. 75th percentile: U.S. $48,290. 90th percentile: U.S. $62,030. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$28,580
10% of workers earn the following or more$62,030
Workers on average earn$43,700

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.5/5
  • English Language3.7/5
  • Administrative3.5/5
  • Sales and Marketing3.4/5
  • Administration and Management3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word
  • Oracle Database

Technology Skills

  • Database software
  • Inventory management systems
  • Point of sale POS software
  • Word processing software

Tools & Equipment

  • 35 millimeter cameras
  • Adjustable widemouth pliers
  • Adjustable wrenches
  • Barcode scanners
  • Cash registers
  • Credit card processing machines
  • Delivery trucks
  • Desktop computers
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment