They locate the necessary parts and equipment and dispense them to mechanics, to other businesses or to the public.
Counter workers perform a variety of duties.
They inspect damaged parts brought in by customers to determine the proper replacement. They may identify the necessary part on the basis of the customer's description of the trouble. They examine returned parts for defects and confer with customers about exchanging the part or refunding their money. They consult catalogs for stock numbers and prices and bring parts from the stockroom. If a customer needs a part that is not stocked, counter workers may suggest one that is interchangeable, place a special order for the part, or refer the customer elsewhere.