Parts Salespersons

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 3 (16%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 6 (32%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 10 (53%)

• Read catalogs, microfiche viewers, or computer displays to determine replacement part stock numbers and prices.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Prepare sales slips or sales contracts.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Discuss use and features of various parts, based on knowledge of machines or equipment.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Receive and fill telephone orders for parts.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Fill customer orders from stock, and place orders when requested items are out of stock.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Determine replacement parts required, according to inspections of old parts, customer requests, or customers' descriptions of malfunctions.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Assist customers, such as responding to customer complaints and updating them about back-ordered parts.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Manage shipments by researching shipping methods or costs and tracking packages.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Advise customers on substitution or modification of parts when identical replacements are not available.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Receive payment or obtain credit authorization.Little or no AI speed-up · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Locate and label parts, and maintain inventory of stock.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Mark and store parts in stockrooms, according to prearranged systems.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Pick up and deliver parts.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Examine returned parts for defects, and exchange defective parts or refund money.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Maintain and clean work and inventory areas.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Place new merchandise on display.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Demonstrate equipment to customers, and explain functioning of equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Measure parts, using precision measuring instruments, to determine whether similar parts may be machined to required sizes.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Repair parts or equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task