As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Returns Clerk, Entry in the United States is $37,490 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $18.
However, a Returns Clerk, Entry's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Returns Clerk, Entry's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Returns Clerk, Entry's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Returns Clerk, Entry | 0-1 years | $37,499 |
| Product Return/Remediation Specialist II | 1-3 years | $41,510 |
| Product Return/Remediation Specialist III | 3-5 years | $45,837 |
| Product Return/Solutions Team Lead | 5+ years | $58,744 |
| Manager of Product Returns and Repairs | 5+ years | $65,956 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Returns Clerk, Entries. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 17.21% |
| Microsoft Office | 2.43% |
| Data Entry | 1.62% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Data Warehouse
|
$44,238 |
18%
|
|
Safety Standards
|
$44,238 |
18%
|
|
Returns Processing
|
$42,739 |
14%
|
|
Customer Service
|
$39,739 |
6%
|
|
Integrity
|
$39,365 |
5%
|
|
Warehouse Management
|
$38,615 |
3%
|
Returns Clerk, Entry salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $41,968. While startup companies pay approximate $35,504.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $35,504 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $37,550 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $40,527 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $41,968 |
For Returns Clerk, Entry roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Business Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Returns Clerk, Entry positions in Aerospace & Defense or Transportation typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Returns Clerk, Entry as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $44,988 | $22.0 | 20% |
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Returns Clerk, Entries enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Returns Clerk, Entry with a No Diploma is between $35,775 and $38,229).
Returns Clerk, Entry Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 16.7% |
| High School | 16.7% |
| Associates | 0.0% |
| Bachelors | 83.3% |
| Masters | 0.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Returns Clerk, Entry's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Returns Clerk, Entry, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy Equipment Technician | $54,301 | 45% |
| Home Theater Technician | $45,001 | 20% |
| Musical Instrument Technician - Keyboard | $37,801 | 1% |
| Musical Instrument Technician - Percussion | $35,301 | -6% |
Salaries for a Returns Clerk, Entry can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $38,878 in 2023 to around $38,204 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Returns Clerk, Entry salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $38,878 |
| 2024 | $38,514 |
| 2025 | $38,204 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Biotechnology industry offers the highest average compensation for Returns Clerk, Entry roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.
The highest salary for a Returns Clerk, Entry level position is $42,490 annually. The salary range typically falls between $33,690 (minimum) and $38,290 (midpoint), reflecting the varying levels of experience and responsibilities within the role.
A returns clerk is responsible for processing product returns and ensuring accurate inventory records. They must have strong attention to detail and good communication skills. The salary for this position ranges from $33,690 to $42,490, with a midpoint of $38,290, reflecting the importance of accuracy and efficiency in managing returns.
Yes, a clerk is typically considered an entry-level job. Positions like administrative assistant, secretary, and general clerk fall into this category. Salaries for entry-level clerks range from $33,690 to $42,490, with a median salary of $38,290. These roles are available across various industries, including state agencies, hospitals, and legal services.
While some may view clerk positions as dead-end jobs, the salary for a Returns Clerk ranges from $33,690 to $42,490, with a midpoint of $38,290. This pay reflects a level of responsibility and skill. Career advancement opportunities may exist, allowing for growth beyond entry-level roles.
The office clerk position can be quite rewarding, especially for those willing to develop the necessary skills. While the responsibilities may seem challenging at first, persistence and enthusiasm can lead to success. Additionally, the salary range for a Returns Clerk is between $33,690 and $42,490, making it a viable career option.
Yes, you can earn a full-time salary if you can type. For a Returns Clerk, the salary ranges from $33,690 to $42,490, with a midpoint of $38,290. Your earnings will depend on your typing speed, experience, and specific job responsibilities.
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