What they do
Shelf fillers work in retail stores and are responsible for ensuring that shelves and product displays remain stocked. They rotate stock on the shelves, ensuring that products with earlier use-by dates are at the front and removing those that have passed this date. Many shelf fillers work after hours, tidying the store after the days trading and ensuring that it is neat and tidy, with fully stocked shelves, when the store reopens in the morning. Some shelf fillers may work during trading hours to maintain stock levels. These shelf fillers may also be required to operate a cash register during busy periods and help customers locate specific goods.
Working conditions
Shelf fillers may work during a store's trading hours, or after hours, at night and on weekends. Those working day shifts will have a high level of contact with the public, and may be required to carry out additional duties around the store, as well as keeping shelves stocked. Shelf fillers spend long hours on their feet, with frequent heavy lifting and bending also required. Many people working in this job work part-time or on a casual basis.
Tools and technologies
Shelf fillers may use trolleys and small hand controlled forklifts to move stock around the store. They also use ladders and steps to safely reach high shelves. They may also have to use cleaning products to keep shelves and displays looking tidy, as well as to clean up breakages and spills. Some employers will require shelf fillers to wear a uniform, particularly if they are working during the store's trading hours.
How do I become one?
Education and training
It is possible to work as a shelf filler without any formal qualifications and get training on the job. However, entry into this occupation may be improved by obtaining a qualification in retail services or a related area.
The Certificate II in Retail Services is offered at TAFE colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Western Australia. Browse courses through Jobs and Skills WA and search on the My Skills website to find a registered provider near you.
You can also undertake a traineeship in retail (level 2). The traineeship usually takes 12 months to complete, and is available as a school based traineeship.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.