Parts Salespeople

Career summary

Many people in this occupation work in the automotive industry and are called parts clerks, auto parts counterworkers, parts counterworkers, parts specialists, parts associates, or auto parts clerks.

Parts salespeople sell spare and replacement parts. Salespeople find parts in their inventory or help customers determine which parts they need. They look at customers old parts and ask questions about the mechanical problems. They look up the stock number for parts, using computers or catalogs. They prepare sales slips and add up the charges. They make change for cash payments or run credit card payments.

Salespeople provide advice about how to install parts. They demonstrate how parts and equipment work and discuss their uses and features. They may also repair parts and equipment.

Salespeople help customers determine if they can substitute other parts. They may measure the original parts to determine which replacement parts are similar in size.

When customers return items, salespeople check them for damage. Salespeople may give returns or exchange items. They answer telephones and take orders. They fill these parts' orders so they are ready for customers to pick up.

Salespeople restock parts between customers or before stores open. They mark new parts with prices and put them in the proper location. Salespeople take inventory of stock and place new merchandise on display racks when needed.

Related careers

This career is part of the Marketing cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Buyers and Purchasing Agents
• Cashiers
• Counter and Rental Clerks
• Counter Attendants
• Hotel Desk Clerks
• Order Clerks
• Production and Planning Clerks
• Receptionists
• Reservation and Ticket Agents
• Retail Salespeople
• Sales Representatives
• Stock Clerks

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to parts salespeople.

• Look up stock numbers and prices for parts in catalogs or on computers.
• Determine replacement parts by inspecting old parts or listening to customers' descriptions of problems.
• Receive and fill telephone orders for parts.
• Fill customer orders from stock.
• Prepare sales slips or sales contracts.
• Receive payment and make change. Verify information on checks or credit card slips.
• Take inventory of stock.
• Advise customers on substitution or modification of parts when exact replacement is not available.
• Examine returned parts for defects. Exchange defective parts or refund money.
• Mark and store parts in stockroom according to prearranged system.
• Discuss use and features of parts.
• Demonstrate equipment to customers and explain its functioning.
• Place new merchandise on display.
• Measure parts using precision measuring instruments to determine whether similar parts may be machined to required size.
• Repair parts or equipment.

Common work activities

Parts salespeople perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Use computers
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Get information needed to do the job
• Convince others to buy goods or change their minds or actions
• Perform for or work with the public
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Document and record information
• Handle and move objects
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Resolve conflicts and negotiate with others
• Process information
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Analyze data or information
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Teach others
• Develop and build teams
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Develop goals and strategies
• Monitor and control resources
• Perform administrative tasks
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Control machines and processes
• Evaluate information against standards
• Schedule work and activities
• Guide, direct, and motivate others
• Coach others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, parts salespeople:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a high level of social contact.
• Communicate with coworkers and customers daily by telephone, e-mail, or in person.
• Sometimes deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous customers. Customers may become upset if they have to wait for assistance.
• Are often placed in conflict situations.
• Are responsible for work outcomes and results of other workers.
• Are responsible for customers' safety. They need to be sure they find the correct replacement parts for customer vehicles, for example.
• Work in a group or as part of a team.

Physical work conditions

• Always work indoors. May work outdoors on rare occasions.
• Often are exposed to contaminants, such as fluids used in cars.
• Are often exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable. Stores may become loud when they are busy.
• May work in environments that do not have heat or air conditioning, such as a warehouse.
• Work near coworkers and customers, but usually have a few feet of space separating them from others.
• Sometimes travel to a work site in a truck or car.
• Occasionally are exposed to hazardous equipment.

Work performance

• Must be very exact in performing their jobs. Errors could cause parts to be stored in the wrong places.
• Repeat the same tasks over and over, such as taking inventory of stock.
• Make decisions on a daily basis that strongly impact customers. They rarely consult supervisors before making decisions.
• Are usually able to set their tasks for the day without consulting with a supervisor.
• Are moderately competitive. They may compete with other salespeople or stores.
• Must meet strict deadlines on a weekly basis.

Hours/travel

• Generally have a set schedule each week.
• Usually work more than 40 hours per week.
• May work weekends.

Physical demands

Parts salespeople frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Repeat the same movements.
• Walk or run for long periods of time.

It is important for parts salespeople to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for parts salespeople to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.

Skills and abilities

Parts salespeople need to:

Communicate

• Understand spoken information.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand written information.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.

Reason and problem solve

• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with people

• Look for ways to help people.
• Persuade others to approach things differently.
• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.
• Solve problems by bringing others together to discuss differences.
• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.

Perceive and visualize

• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study to consider

• Marketing

Training

To work as a parts salesperson, you typically need to:

• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required for this occupation. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Work experience

Delivering parts or working in shipping and receiving departments is good preparation for this occupation. For auto parts work, any experience with automotive systems (engine, brakes, suspension, electrical) is valuable.

On-the-job training

Parts salespeople learn their skills on the job. You work with an experienced salesperson who teaches you the job. You learn inventory control, sales techniques, parts lookup, and ordering. You may receive training for up to 12 months.

Many parts salespeople attend training programs sponsored by car manufacturers. These programs provide information about the technical details of equipment on new models of cars.

#Bates TC offers a cert in this occupation. lh

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Auto Repair Technology
• Computer Fundamentals
• Diesel Mechanics and Repair
• Equipment Maintenance and Repair
• Introduction to Mechanics
• Small Engine Mechanics and Repair

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Most employers prefer to hire parts salespeople who have a high school diploma or equivalent. They also prefer to hire applicants who have knowledge about parts and their functions.

Some employers will hire parts salespeople who do not have any experience. Other employers prefer to hire parts salespeople who have one to two years of experience.

Employers look for salespeople who have good handwriting and the ability to read catalogs and technical materials. Since parts salespeople work directly with customers, applicants should have a neat appearance.

Some employers look for graduates of two-year colleges who have taken courses in automotive mechanics, electronics, or parts merchandising. Most employers of vehicle parts salespeople want applicants who have computer and electronics skills and experience. Employers also look for workers who are motivated, dependable, and have good judgment. Workers who deliver and pick up parts must have a valid state driver's license. Practical experience working in a service station or automotive repair shop is sometimes required by owners of small automotive stores.

Tips

Gain practical experience by repairing or working on motor vehicles, machinery, appliances, and equipment. Automotive parts salespeople should enjoy helping people and be able to adjust to ongoing changes in the automotive industry.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Parts Salespersons 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

The minimum wage for Washington State as of January 1, 2020 is $13.50 per hour. Some areas of the state may have a higher minimum wage.

Wages vary by employer and area of the country. Wages also vary based on the worker's level of experience.

Parts salespeople who work full time often receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

In Washington, workers who are knowledgeable about parts for a variety of vehicles, equipment, machinery, or appliances may fare best.

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Car parts and supply stores
• Machinery and equipment supply stores
• Auto dealers

National outlook

Demand for this occupation is expected to show little to no change. More people are having their cars repaired than buying new cars which increases demand for parts salespeople. However, the slow growth in the car and truck building industry will limit growth for this occupation.

Many job openings will occur as current workers leave the occupation.

Other resources

AutoCare Association 
7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1300
Bethesda, MD 20814
301.654.6664

AutoCare Careers 

References

Career cluster

• Marketing

Career path

• Enterprising (Business Communications)

O*Net  occupation

• Parts Salespersons (41-2022.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed. Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed.

DOT occupation

• Salesperson, Parts (279.357-062) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Enterprising/Conventional/Realistic

COPSystem

• Business Skilled