Counter and Rental Clerks
Counter and rental clerks handle customer orders for repairs, rentals, and services, typically working in person at rental shops, repair facilities, or service counters. They describe available options, calculate costs, process payments, and maintain records. Most work in retail or service settings where they interact directly with customers throughout their shift.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against counter and rental clerks and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical day involves greeting customers, listening to their repair or rental needs, and explaining available services and pricing options. Clerks use computer systems or calculators to estimate costs and process transactions. They may handle paperwork, manage rental agreements, schedule appointments, answer phones, and handle cash or card payments. Duties vary by location but center on customer service and order processing tasks.
Who this work suits
Holland code CES. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely thrive in this role if you're organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable following procedures—traits valued in conventional work. You probably also enjoy helping customers and closing deals, which reflects enterprising interests. You're reliable with numbers, comfortable with basic technology, and good at managing multiple customer requests efficiently.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $49,970 | $53,760 | $57,310 | 480 |
| New Jersey | $39,240 | $48,900 | $59,020 | 9,540 |
| Vermont | $39,430 | $48,430 | $58,440 | 750 |
| Washington | $42,300 | $47,820 | $58,610 | 14,600 |
| New Hampshire | $38,590 | $47,250 | $62,400 | 1,590 |
| Maine | $37,920 | $46,870 | $51,380 | 1,180 |
| Rhode Island | $37,530 | $46,360 | $59,330 | 840 |
| New York | $38,980 | $46,270 | $58,130 | 18,320 |
| Colorado | $38,950 | $46,240 | $59,570 | 13,900 |
| Wisconsin | $36,650 | $45,720 | $57,410 | 6,600 |
| Virginia | $37,280 | $45,540 | $58,790 | 12,910 |
| California | $37,630 | $45,010 | $53,640 | 67,770 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Event Rental Professional (CERP) — American Rental Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against counter and rental clerks and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 41-2021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.