High School

Many workers in the supermarket industry are recent high school graduates or are currently in high school. There is a large turnover in the field, as many workers move on to other careers. Take English, mathematics, business, and computer science classes to learn the basic skills for most supermarket jobs.

Postsecondary Training

Postsecondary training is not required in the supermarket industry but may be encouraged for specific areas, such as the bakery, or for management positions. Stores offer on-the-job training and value employees who are able to learn quickly while they work.

Other Education or Training

The National Retail Federation offers classes and other continuing education opportunities. Topics include customer service, management issues, purchasing, sales training, store operations, merchandising, and marketing.

Certification or Licensing

The National Retail Federation Foundation offers certification programs in customer service and sales, advanced customer service and sales, and retail management to retail workers who successfully pass an assessment and meet other requirements.

To protect the public's health, bakers, deli workers, and butchers are required by law in most states to possess a health certificate and undergo periodic physical exams. These examinations, usually given by the state board of health, make certain that the individual is free from communicable diseases and skin infections.

No experience is needed to work in entry-level positions such as stock clerk. Managers and department heads must have at least three years of experience in lower level supervisory positions. 

The most important requirement for a supermarket worker is the ability to work with people. Workers are required to work with both the public, fellow workers, and their own management, so having strong communication and customer service skills is important. The ability to follow directions as well as being accurate and honest are qualities that all supermarket workers should possess.