Working in a warehouse is quite hard and physically challenging. There are so many tasks to do and many people are hired to meet the needs of a busy warehouse.
Warehouse workers are required to put and arrange goods where they are supposed to be. From taking orders for specific goods to moving them to the required place, warehouse workers do it all. They are often entrusted with physically demanding work such as moving heavy crates and packing heavy materials.
Warehouse workers do not only move shipments but are also responsible for packing goods according to specifications provided to them. Their specific job location depends on their individual job placement; they may work indoors or outdoors or both depending on their work orders.
Some warehouse workers may need to work in freezing temperatures especially in the produce industry where they are required to perform their work inside large refrigerators.
While specific duties of a warehouse worker depend on the industry he works in, the following are some examples of job duties that he typically performs:
Sample Job Description for Warehouse Worker Resume
- Look over customers’ orders and requisitions and figure out which items need to be moved to designated areas
- Prepare orders according to instructions in time for delivery and/or pickup
- Pick items from storage areas and deliver them to the delivery pallet
- Ensure that all items are checked for damage or inconsistencies
- Make sure that items are labeled properly and in accordance with shipment orders
- Transport appropriate quantity of items according to company protocols
- Handle inventory controls and audits to ensure quality
- Assist in loading and unloading of trucks
- Operate a forklift or automated machinery to deliver and arrange items on pallets
- Label and store received items in appropriate storage places
- File requisitions for out of stock items and supplies
- Sort items according to their types and sizes and ensure that they are stacked properly
- Enforce security and safety rules in order to ensure best safety practices around the warehouse
- Pack materials and items in designated crates and boxes and seal and label them properly
- Manage records of incoming and outgoing items
- Create shipment reports and paperwork while updating all information properly
- Count inventory physically and prepare parcels for mailing purposes
- Clean warehouse by mopping, dusting and sweeping
Education, Skills and Knowledge Requirements
While there are no formal education requirements to work as a warehouse worker, one must be knowledgeable of:
- Inventory control procedures
- Optimizing space utilization
- Operation and maintenance of warehouse equipment
- Quality control and service standards
Besides that, it is essential for warehouse workers to possess excellent communication and time management skills, along with familiarity with modern warehousing practices and methods.
Warehouse Worker Training
Although most warehouse workers get on the job training, someone who already knows the role is usually given preference.
Warehouse Worker Physical Abilities
It is crucial for warehouse workers to be physically agile as they spend a significant part of the day lifting and transporting heavy objects. The ability to stoop, kneel, and crouch is often a prerequisite for this job.