Gas Station Cashier

Education and Training None

Salary Median—$7.54 per hour

Employment Outlook Good

Definition and Nature of the Work

Gas station cashiers process gas and product purchases. They also provide information and give directions to travelers.

Some cashiers work in small gas stations with only a few gas pumps; most work in larger stations that include convenience stores, which sell snacks, beverages, and car and travel accessories such as maps and window washing fluid. Many transactions require the handling of cash and making change, but the widespread use of credit cards has made the job easier and faster. Cashiers usually use cash registers and bar-code scanning devices.

In some establishments, cashiers control the gas pumps electronically. They may also monitor air pumps, vacuum cleaners, and automated car washing equipment.

Education and Training Requirements

While most employers prefer to hire high school graduates, the job has no formal educational requirements. Courses in math, accounting, and computers can be helpful. Because contact with the public is constant, applicants must enjoy working with people and be courteous and patient.

No work experience is necessary. New hires are trained on the job under the supervision of experienced employees. Training usually lasts only a few days.

Getting the Job

Job seekers can apply directly to gas station managers. Newspaper classified ads and Internet job sites may list opportunities in this field.

Advancement Possibilities and Employment Outlook

Gas station cashiers may advance to head cashier or be offered full-time work if they have part-time positions.

The employment outlook for gas station cashiers is good through 2014, especially for young workers who are willing to work part time. Turnover is high, so new workers are often needed to fill positions of workers who have taken other jobs.

Working Conditions

Cashiers can work part time or full time. Night, weekend, and holidays hours may be required.

Almost all cashiers work indoors, sometimes behind protective windows. While robberies occur, most gas stations have safety equipment and procedures to protect their employees. Work may be repetitive and may be include long periods of inactivity, especially late at night.

Where to Go for More Information

Service Station Dealers of America/National Coalition of Petroleum Retailers and Allied Trades 1532
Pointer Ridge Pl., Ste. E
Bowie, MD 20716
(301) 390-4405
http://www.ssda-at.org

Earnings and Benefits

In 2004 the median salary of gas station cashiers was $7.54 per hour. Some full-time employees received benefits, such as health insurance.