You're thinking about joining the Kroger team as a cart pusher, also often referred to as a "Courtesy Clerk" or "Bagger," and you're wondering about the pay. That's a great first step – understanding the compensation is crucial when considering any job. Let's break down exactly what you can expect and give you a comprehensive guide to this entry-level but vital role at Kroger!
How Much Does Kroger Pay for Pushing Carts? A Comprehensive Guide
The role of a cart pusher, or Courtesy Clerk, at Kroger is an essential part of the customer experience. While it might seem straightforward, it involves more than just collecting carts; it's about maintaining a clean, safe, and organized store environment for shoppers. Let's dive into the details of what you can expect in terms of compensation and the job itself.
Step 1: Understanding the Role - More Than Just Carts!
Before we even talk about numbers, let's talk about you. Are you someone who enjoys being active, working outdoors (at least part of the time), and contributing to a smooth shopping experience for others? If so, this role might be a great fit!
While the primary duty is indeed pushing carts, the "Courtesy Clerk" title at Kroger often encompasses a broader range of responsibilities. You'll be a key part of the front-end team, ensuring the store remains presentable and customer-friendly.
What Does a Kroger Cart Pusher (Courtesy Clerk) Actually Do?
Cart Collection & Organization: This is the core duty. You'll be responsible for retrieving shopping carts from the parking lot and returning them to designated areas inside or near the store. This often involves navigating various weather conditions.
Parking Lot Maintenance: Keeping the parking lot tidy is also part of the job. This can include picking up litter, emptying trash cans, and ensuring the parking lot is safe for customers.
Customer Assistance: You'll frequently interact with customers. This might involve helping them load groceries into their cars, assisting with finding items, or providing directions within the store. Good customer service skills are a plus!
Bags and General Store Support: In many Kroger stores, especially for Courtesy Clerks, you'll also assist with bagging groceries at the checkout lanes and performing other general clean-up or support tasks around the store as needed.
Safety and Cleanliness: You're a frontline ambassador for the store's appearance and safety. This means being vigilant about spills, hazards, and generally keeping the premises clean.
Step 2: Unveiling the Numbers - Kroger Cart Pusher Pay
Now for the part you've been waiting for! How much can you expect to earn as a cart pusher at Kroger? It's important to note that wages can vary based on several factors, including:
Location: Pay rates can differ significantly from state to state and even city to city due to varying minimum wage laws and the cost of living.
Experience: While this is often an entry-level position, any prior experience in retail or customer service might give you a slight edge in negotiations or starting pay.
Store Volume/Union Status: High-volume stores or those in unionized areas might offer slightly higher wages or better benefits.
Specific Kroger Banner: Kroger operates under various banners (e.g., Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Dillons). While pay is generally consistent across Kroger's family of companies, slight variations can occur.
What the Data Suggests (as of mid-2025):
Based on recent data from various salary aggregators, here's a general overview of what a Kroger cart pusher (Courtesy Clerk/Bagger) can expect:
Average Hourly Pay: The average hourly pay for a Kroger Courtesy Clerk in the United States typically falls around $14.00 - $17.00 per hour.
Range: While the average is a good benchmark, hourly wages can range from as low as $10.00 - $12.00 per hour (for those just starting or in lower cost-of-living areas) up to $18.00 - $20.00 per hour (for experienced individuals or in higher cost-of-living areas like certain parts of California or Alaska).
Annual Salary: For full-time employees, this translates to an annual salary of approximately $29,000 to $35,000 per year, though many cart pusher positions are part-time.
It's important to remember these are averages and estimates. Actual pay will be determined by your specific Kroger location and the prevailing wages in that area.
Step 3: Beyond the Hourly Wage - Benefits and Perks
While the hourly wage is crucial, it's also important to consider the total compensation package. Kroger, like many large retailers, often offers benefits to its employees, especially for those working a certain number of hours or in full-time roles.
Potential Benefits:
Health Benefits: Full-time employees may be eligible for medical, dental, and vision insurance. Even part-time employees might have access to some benefits, depending on hours worked and location.
Employee Discounts: A common perk in retail is a discount on groceries and other store items. This can add up to significant savings!
401(k) and Retirement Plans: Kroger often offers retirement savings plans with potential company matching contributions, which is a great way to save for your future.
Paid Time Off (PTO): Depending on your employment status and tenure, you may accrue paid time off for vacations or sick days.
Flexible Scheduling: For many cart pusher roles, especially part-time, there can be some flexibility in scheduling, which is beneficial for students or those with other commitments.
Training and Development: Kroger provides on-the-job training, and there may be opportunities for advancement within the company if you're looking to grow your career.
Tuition Assistance: Some retail companies, including Kroger, offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing higher education. Check with your local HR department for specifics.
Step 4: How to Maximize Your Earning Potential
Once you're in the door, there are ways to potentially increase your earnings or advance your career at Kroger.
Strategies for Growth:
Reliability and Strong Work Ethic: Being a dependable and hard-working employee is the foundation for any advancement. Showing up on time, completing tasks efficiently, and having a positive attitude will get you noticed.
Excellent Customer Service: Go above and beyond for customers. Positive customer interactions can lead to recognition and potentially opportunities for roles with more customer-facing responsibilities.
Learn Other Roles: Express interest in cross-training for other departments, such as cashier, stocker, or even deli/bakery. The more versatile you are, the more valuable you become.
Seek Advancement Opportunities: Keep an eye out for internal job postings for positions like "Front End Supervisor," "Utility Clerk," or other entry-level department roles.
Performance Reviews: Use your annual performance reviews as an opportunity to discuss your career goals and potential pay increases.
Union Membership: If your Kroger store is unionized, understanding your union contract can be key to understanding pay raises and benefits. Unions often negotiate for regular wage increases and better benefits for their members.
Step 5: The Application Process - Getting Hired!
Ready to apply? The process for a cart pusher or Courtesy Clerk position at Kroger is generally straightforward.
Your Step-by-Step Application Guide:
Online Application: Most Kroger hiring is done online through their official careers website.
Visit Kroger's Careers Website: Go to
www.krogerfamilycareers.com.Search for Openings: Use keywords like "Courtesy Clerk," "Bagger," "Cart Attendant," or "Retail Clerk" and filter by your location.
Resume (Optional but Recommended): While not always required for entry-level roles, a simple resume highlighting any customer service, physical labor, or teamwork experience can set you apart.
Focus on relevant skills: Even if you haven't had a formal job, think about school projects, volunteer work, or even sports that demonstrate responsibility, teamwork, and reliability.
Application Form: Fill out the online application completely and accurately.
Be thorough: Don't leave any blanks. Even if something seems irrelevant, if it's asked, fill it in.
Assessment (if applicable): Some companies use online assessments to gauge basic skills or personality traits. Do your best and answer honestly.
Interview: If your application is selected, you'll likely be contacted for an interview.
Prepare for common questions: Be ready to talk about why you want to work at Kroger, your availability, how you handle challenging situations, and your ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Dress appropriately: Even for an entry-level position, dress neatly and professionally.
Be enthusiastic and polite: Show your eagerness to learn and your positive attitude.
Background Check and Drug Test: Like most large retailers, Kroger typically conducts background checks and may require a drug test as part of the hiring process.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to Apply for a Cart Pusher Job at Kroger?
Visit Kroger's official careers website (
www.krogerfamilycareers.com), search for "Courtesy Clerk" or "Bagger" openings in your area, and complete the online application.
How to Prepare for a Kroger Courtesy Clerk Interview?
Be ready to discuss your availability, customer service skills, ability to work outdoors, and willingness to assist with various tasks like bagging groceries. Dress neatly and be enthusiastic.
How to Increase Your Pay as a Kroger Cart Pusher?
Demonstrate strong reliability and work ethic, provide excellent customer service, express interest in cross-training for other departments, and seek internal advancement opportunities.
How to Handle Difficult Customers as a Cart Pusher?
Remain calm and polite, listen to their concerns, offer to find a manager if necessary, and focus on providing a helpful solution.
How to Stay Safe While Pushing Carts in a Busy Parking Lot?
Always be aware of your surroundings, use caution around vehicles, wear appropriate footwear, and utilize any safety equipment provided by Kroger.
How to Dress for a Cart Pusher Job at Kroger?
Kroger usually has a uniform policy for employees (often a specific shirt and name tag). For interviews, dress in clean, casual-to-business-casual attire. For work, comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential.
How to Request Time Off as a Kroger Employee?
Typically, time off requests are made through your direct supervisor or a digital scheduling system used by the store, following company policy and advance notice requirements.
How to Advance from a Cart Pusher Role at Kroger?
Show initiative, cross-train in other departments, consistently perform well, and communicate your career aspirations to your supervisors. Look for internal postings for roles like cashier, stocking, or department clerk.
How to Deal with Inclement Weather as a Cart Pusher?
Be prepared with appropriate gear (raincoat, warm layers, gloves depending on the weather). Take breaks to warm up or cool down, and communicate with your supervisor about extreme conditions.
How to Find Out About Benefits for Kroger Employees?
During the hiring process, HR will usually provide information on benefits. Once hired, you can consult your employee handbook, the company's HR portal, or speak directly with your store's HR representative.
