Stock control assistant

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could start by applying for a place on a Retailer Level 2, or Supply Chain Warehouse Operative Level 2, Intermediate Apprenticeship.

These apprenticeships can take between 1 and 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

Work

You could look for work in a shop, supermarket, parts department or distribution depot and move into stock control through internal promotion.

DirectApplication

You may need GCSEs in English and maths to apply directly for some jobs. Experience in retail or warehouse work could give you an advantage, though employers often provide training on the job.

It's useful to have some IT skills or experience of using online stock management software.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
• active listening skills
• concentration skills
• the ability to sell products and services
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• thinking and reasoning skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to use your initiative
• leadership skills
• a desire to help people
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• physical fitness and endurance
• knowledge of English language
• knowledge of public safety and security

What you'll do:

Stock control assistants keep track of stock levels and make sure there are enough supplies to meet customer demand.

As a stock control assistant, you could:

• check stock levels and order new stock
• update stock information on computer systems
• receive deliveries and check paperwork is in order
• move stock with a forklift truck
• make sure orders are despatched on time
• answer customer enquiries online, over the phone and in person
• carry out spot checks and audits

Location : You could work in a stock room, in a warehouse or at a store.

Salary:

Starter : £19,000
Experienced : £30,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

40 - 42 hours a week

Working Pattern is between 6am and 10pm on shifts

Career Path:

You could become a stock supervisor or manager. In these jobs, you would lead a team, forecast stock levels and work closely with suppliers.

You could also work as a retail buyer, looking at consumer trends and selecting products for your company that you think will sell well.

With further training, you could move into supply chain management.