Warehouse jobs are best suited for those who appreciate more physically demanding work versus a sedentary job. Occasionally it can be a serious workout depending on the job you are completing, with a lot of repetition, but seeing what you have accomplished and taking pride in a job well done – make it well-suited for many. You get the opportunity to work with a diverse group of people with varying skills. Plus, the work is steady, as there’s usually a demand for your skills.
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.
