As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Returns Clerk III in the United States is $45,841 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $22.
However, a Returns Clerk III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Returns Clerk III'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 III'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 I | 0-1 years | $37,500 |
| Returns Clerk II | 1-3 years | $41,513 |
| Returns Clerk III | 3-5 years | $45,841 |
| Returns Supervisor | 5+ years | $58,736 |
| Returns Manager | 5+ years | $65,952 |
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 IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 9.5% |
| Client Communications | 3.97% |
| Computer Systems | 1.55% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Accountability
|
$57,301 |
25%
|
|
Supply Chain
|
$55,468 |
21%
|
|
Critical Thinking
|
$55,009 |
20%
|
|
Attention to Detail
|
$55,009 |
20%
|
|
Call Center
|
$52,717 |
15%
|
|
Logistics
|
$52,259 |
14%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Returns Clerk IIIs 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 III with a No Diploma is between $40,631 and $42,737).
Returns Clerk III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 100.0% |
| High School | 0.0% |
| Associates | 0.0% |
| Bachelors | 100.0% |
| Masters | 0.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Returns Clerk III'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 May 01, 2026For a Returns Clerk III, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Returns Supervisor role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $58,736 - a projected growth of 28% over your current level.
Salaries for a Returns Clerk III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $48,970 in 2023 to around $47,243 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Returns Clerk III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $48,970 |
| 2024 | $47,608 |
| 2025 | $47,243 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Returns Clerk III's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Returns Clerk III earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Returns Clerk III is $57,819.
The highest pay for Returns Clerk III is $53,122.
The lowest pay for Returns Clerk III is $34,963.
Processes all repairs and returns in a timely manner. Schedules, submits and initiates supplier returns in accordance with standard procedures. Records related data and supplier policies during future reporting process. May require an associate degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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