Parts Salespersons
Parts salespersons sell spare and replacement parts and equipment in repair shops and parts stores. They help customers find the right components for repairs and maintenance, manage inventory, process orders, and may handle cash or digital payments. The work takes place primarily in retail or commercial parts environments.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against parts salespersons and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves assisting customers looking for specific parts, checking inventory systems to locate items, answering questions about compatibility and specifications, and processing sales transactions. Parts salespersons may receive shipments and stock shelves, organize parts by category, and handle phone or online orders. They work with catalogs, computer systems, and sometimes communicate with mechanics or technicians to clarify what parts are needed.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCE. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you're detail-oriented and organized, preferring practical tasks over abstract concepts. You're comfortable following established procedures and systems, good at helping customers solve straightforward problems, and enjoy working in structured retail or shop environments where your responsibilities are clear.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $42,090 | $48,600 | $59,320 | 1,610 |
| Colorado | $36,400 | $47,660 | $59,210 | 4,840 |
| Minnesota | $36,980 | $47,030 | $56,330 | 5,790 |
| Washington | $39,550 | $46,830 | $57,400 | 6,230 |
| Iowa | $35,980 | $46,670 | $57,560 | 3,810 |
| New Hampshire | $36,940 | $46,370 | $56,590 | 1,500 |
| Vermont | $38,450 | $46,260 | $53,870 | 780 |
| Alaska | $37,870 | $46,130 | $58,970 | 710 |
| Arizona | $37,160 | $46,020 | $58,220 | 3,890 |
| New Jersey | $35,280 | $45,510 | $57,350 | 4,810 |
| Wisconsin | $35,980 | $45,380 | $50,700 | 5,200 |
| South Dakota | $37,760 | $45,370 | $50,770 | 2,100 |
All 50 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Automobile & Light Truck Certification - A7 Heating & Air Conditioning (A7) — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- NAFA Certified Air Filter Specialist (NAFA-AFS) — National Air Filtration 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 parts salespersons and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 41-2022.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.