What Are Warehouse Worker Jobs Like?

Mar 17, 2022

Warehouse jobs are best suited for those who enjoy more physically demanding work over a sedentary desk job. At times, it can feel like a full-body workout with repetitive tasks, but the sense of accomplishment and pride in a job well done makes it a rewarding choice for many. You’ll also have the chance to work with a diverse team of individuals with a wide range of skills. Plus, the work tends to be steady, with consistent demand—especially for those seeking temporary jobs in Asheville, NC where reliability and hands-on skills are always in need.

Job Description

If you think about it, warehouse workers play a vital role in moving goods of every kind around the country – food, raw materials, in home deliveries and finished goods of all types. Without warehouse workers, you may not have the materials you need from your supply chain or the cereal you enjoy for breakfast. 

Warehouse workers are responsible for receiving and processing incoming goods and outgoing items while maintaining a safe, clean workplace that complies with safety regulations. 

A warehouse worker’s duties may include:

  • Moving merchandise from inventory to shipping
  • Receiving goods and verifying order accuracy
  • Reporting lost, damaged, or missing merchandise 
  • Training new employees 
  • Packing and preparing orders for shipping
  • Counting and stocking merchandise 
  • Recycling of packing materials

Types of Warehouse Jobs

Warehouse workers work indoors and outdoors, and the environment is not always climate-controlled. There are many different types of jobs available at a warehouse depending on a company’s needs. You may pack boxes, account for merchandise, drive a forklift or use hand trucks and move goods from one area to another. Closely review a job posting to ensure a warehouse worker position fits your skill set.

Average Compensation

Hourly rates vary based on the employer, job type, experience level, location, and other factors. 

In Western NC, the average entry wage range is:

  • Stocker: $15 – $18
  • Warehouse packer: $15.50 – $18
  • Warehouse picker: $13 – $18
  • Warehouse clerk: $14.50 – $18.50
  • Material handler: $15.50 – $18.50
  • Machine operator:  $16 – $19

Education, Skills, Certifications Required

Education 

Entry-level warehouse jobs typically require a high school education or GED. Most warehouse workers learn a great deal through on-the-job training. Workers interested in management roles may also pursue advanced certifications related to logistics or learn from in-house management to prepare for a future supervisor role. 

Skills 

Some of the key skills necessary for warehouse workers include:

  • Physical strength and proper lifting techniques to maneuver objects
  • Organizational ability and time-management
  • Computer systems knowledge
  • Understanding of safety protocols
  • Machinery operation

Certifications

Entry-level positions don’t typically require certifications, but there are areas where you can specialize, depending on your responsibilities. One way or the other, the more skills you acquire over time, coupled with a hard work ethic, the better your chances for advancement into supervisory or management roles.

Opportunities for Career Growth

Entry-level jobs offer a gateway into ongoing advancement. As you learn how the business works, you may find opportunities to steer your career in various directions. The job market for warehouse workers is expected to grow for the foreseeable future around the country.

Friday Services

Contact us to learn more about available positions for warehouse workers in your area.

Employees

If you see a lot of potential in yourself – so do we! Start your job search and learn about the opportunities and benefits offered through each available position.

Employers

Friday Services is independent and locally owned. We offer Western North Carolina employers HR staffing solutions.