10 Best Grocery Store Jobs

The grocery store industry has continued to thrive into 2026, adapting to modern consumer needs and preferences. Even as various sectors face challenges, grocery stores consistently emerge as reliable employers, often ranking among the top places for hiring new staff.

If you’re exploring job opportunities in a stable field, consider a position at a grocery store. Regardless of economic conditions, the demand for food remains constant, making grocery stores essential in any environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Top positions at grocery stores include manager, inventory specialist, and pharmacy technician.

• Determine whether you prefer full-time or part-time hours when seeking grocery store employment.

• Understand the distinctions between grocery stores and supermarkets, as they often serve different customer bases and needs.

• Be prepared for long hours on your feet, as many grocery store roles demand physical stamina.

Full-Time Jobs in a Grocery Store

While grocery stores are renowned for part-time positions like cashiers and baggers, they also offer a variety of full-time roles. Many of these positions are highly regarded among former store managers and assistant managers.

1. Grocery Manager
   Average Annual Salary: $41,000

   Grocery stores follow a hierarchical structure similar to other businesses, typically employing a store manager, an assistant manager, and various department managers based on store size.

   Compensation varies widely based on the role, store size, and location.

   Requirements to become a grocery manager: A high school diploma or GED may suffice, but many employers prefer candidates with a two- or four-year degree or substantial experience in similar roles. Essential retail management skills include inventory control, vendor management, product selection, and general management abilities.

   Find manager or assistant manager jobs near me

2. Customer Service Representative
   Average Annual Salary: $29,000

   Customer service representatives assist customers with returns, answer inquiries, guide them to products, address complaints, and promote items not found in aisles.

   Requirements to become a customer service representative: A high school diploma or GED is typically required, along with excellent customer service skills. In busy environments, these employees often support roles like cashier, stocker, or bagger.

   Find customer service representative jobs near me

3. Food Preparation Worker
   Average Annual Salary: $17,000

   Food preparation workers create fresh items in various departments, such as the deli counter.

   They handle food preparation, clean and sanitize workspaces, and prepare samples, especially during holiday seasons.

   Requirements to become a food preparation worker: This role demands clear communication and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced environment. According to current data, food preparation workers earn an average hourly wage of $12.72.

   Find food preparation worker jobs near me

4. Butcher
   Average Annual Salary: $29,000

   Butchers prepare and package meat and poultry and handle customer requests.

   This job requires strong customer service and physical strength, as butchers use heavy equipment and work in cold environments.

   Requirements to become a butcher: Many butchers are trained on the job, starting as assistants in larger meat departments. Formal education is generally not required. Current statistics show butchers earn an average of $15.62 per hour.

   Find butcher jobs near me

5. Inventory Specialist
   Average Annual Salary: $35,752

   Inventory specialists manage stock levels, track inventory, and determine order needs based on demand.

   Requirements to become an inventory specialist: Key skills include communication, organization, and delegation. While 30.5% of inventory specialists hold a bachelor’s degree, many succeed with only a high school diploma or associate degree.

   Find inventory specialist jobs near me

6. Pharmacy Technician
   Average Annual Salary: $36,090

   Pharmacy technicians assist licensed pharmacists with prescriptions and customer inquiries.

   Requirements to become a pharmacy technician: Strong organizational skills and customer service abilities are essential. Approximately 35.4% of pharmacy technicians possess a bachelor’s degree, though many enter the field with only a high school diploma or associate degree.

   Find pharmacy technician jobs near me

Part-Time Jobs

Grocery stores also provide part-time job opportunities, some of which can transition into full-time positions.

1. Cashier
   Average Annual Salary: $24,000

   Cashiers scan merchandise, process payments, and issue receipts, while also serving as customer service representatives.

   Requirements to become a cashier: Strong customer service and mathematical skills are necessary. Current data shows cashiers earn an average hourly rate of $12.01.

   Find cashier jobs near me

2. Stocker
   Average Annual Salary: $28,000

   Stockers move items from storage to shelves and ensure products are displayed correctly.

   Requirements to become a stocker: This role is physically demanding, requiring the ability to lift heavy objects and stand for extended periods. Stockers earn an average hourly rate of $13.33.

   Find stocker jobs near me

3. Bagger
   Average Annual Salary: $33,000

   Baggers load products into bags and may carry items to customers’ cars.

   Requirements to become a bagger: This entry-level position requires minimal experience. Baggers should be prepared to answer customer questions.

   Find bagger jobs near me

4. Shopping Cart Attendant
   Average Annual Salary: $28,866

   Shopping cart attendants assist with customer service and collect carts throughout the store and parking lot.

   Requirements to become a shopping cart attendant: This role requires the ability to follow directions and take initiative in completing tasks.

   Find shopping cart attendant jobs near me

What Is a Grocery Store?

In the U.S., grocery stores are often confused with supermarkets and convenience stores, but there are distinct differences:

• Grocery Stores: Typically small-to-medium-sized, grocery stores specialize in essential items, including fresh and packaged foods, dairy, frozen meals, over-the-counter medications, and basic household products. Many also feature a deli counter.

• Supermarkets: Larger than grocery stores, supermarkets offer a wide array of products beyond food, including home goods, clothing, and pharmaceuticals.

• Convenience Stores: Smaller and often attached to gas stations, convenience stores sell packaged foods and beverages, with a limited selection of household items.

Grocery stores and supermarkets cater to shoppers looking to stock up on essential items, while convenience stores are designed for quick purchases.

Challenges Grocery Stores and Workers Face

While grocery store jobs can offer some level of job security due to their essential nature, employees face several challenges:

• Demanding Work for Low Pay: Many grocery store positions are physically taxing and often come with limited compensation and benefits.

• Poor Work-Life Balance: Unpredictable schedules can make it challenging for employees to balance personal commitments and work.

• Hazardous Conditions: Employees may encounter risks associated with equipment and potential exposure to illnesses due to public interaction.

Final Thoughts

A job at a grocery store may not be glamorous, but it remains a dependable source of income.

This industry can provide short-term employment for those in need or valuable long-term career paths for individuals aspiring to advance into management.

With grocery stores consistently hiring, it’s advisable to explore local opportunities if you’re seeking immediate work.

References

Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Outlook Handbook.” Accessed in 2026.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.