Storekeepers and partspersons (NOC 1522)

Storekeepers and partspersons perform some or all of the following duties:

• receive and sort incoming parts and supplies
• store items in an orderly and accessible manner in a warehouse, tool room, supply room or other area
• process incoming requisitions and issue or distribute parts and supplies for internal usage
• maintain records of orders and the amount, kind and location of parts and supplies on hand using manual or computerized inventory system
• prepare requisition orders to replenish parts and supplies
• sell spare and replacement parts for motor vehicles, machinery and equipment in a retail setting
• advise retail customers or internal users on appropriateness of parts, supplies or materials requested

Special duties

Storekeepers and partspersons may specialize in a particular line of parts such as automotive parts, recreational vehicle parts, marine parts, heavy equipment parts, agricultural machinery parts, heating, ventilating and air conditioning parts or refrigeration parts.

Storekeepers and partspersons typically work 35 to 40 hours per week. Evening and weekend work may be required by those employed in retail outlets.

Those in this occupation generally work indoors at parts counters or in warehouses. These work environments can be dusty.

Workers may be required to stand for extended periods of time, operate large equipment (such as forklifts) or handle hazardous materials. Some clerks may be required to perform deliveries of parts to their customers.

The majority of job openings in this field will come from replacing retiring workers.

Demand for these workers is driven largely by B.C.'s automotive industry. The number of cars is increasing due to population expansion and tourism traffic. Trends indicate that people are keeping their cars longer.

The use of technology, such as computerized systems for inventory control, ordering and scheduling is significantly reducing the demand for these workers. Increased competition from both big box stores and online shopping has pressured retail outlets to reduce costs through the automation of inventory systems. Workers with good computer skills will have an advantage over others seeking employment in this area.