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Finance & LegalDeclining

Order Clerk

Operational-level

Also known as: Ad Taker (Advertising Taker), Advertising Clerk (Ad Clerk), Advertising Space Clerk (Ad Space Clerk), Back Order Clerk

Finance & LegalBachelor's Degree

Job Description

Receive and process incoming orders for materials, merchandise, classified ads, or services such as repairs, installations, or rental of facilities. Generally receives orders via mail, phone, fax, or other electronic means. Duties include informing customers of receipt, prices, shipping dates, and delays; preparing contracts; and handling complaints.
Order ProcessingCustomer ServiceSales SupportLogistics CoordinationBusiness AdministrationOperations ManagementOperations

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

In-demand software
Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareOrder management software

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

-17.5%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

6,300

per year (US)

Jobs today

78,900

in 2025 → 65,100 (2035)

Typical entry education

Some college, no degree

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
High
Working outdoors
Low
Indoor, climate-controlled
High
Dealing with customers
High
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Declining Job Market

This field is experiencing contraction with decreasing job opportunities. Consider developing skills in related growing fields.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Receptionist
  • Data Entry Clerk
  • Customer Service Representative

Where it can lead

  • Sales Coordinator
  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Account Manager

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will significantly impact order clerks by automating routine tasks like order entry, processing, and status updates through chatbots and robotic process automation. This will likely reduce the demand for manual order taking, shifting the role towards managing exceptions, handling complex customer inquiries, and ensuring data accuracy. Future order clerks may need enhanced digital literacy and problem-solving skills.