Are you thinking about starting a career as a material handler but aren't sure if it is the right job for you?
Working as a material handler can be a very rewarding job, as you will play a crucial role in the overall operations of a warehouse. What does a material handler do? How do you get a job as a material handler?
Check out this material handler job description to learn everything you need to know about this exciting professional career.
What Does a Material Handler Do?
A material handler is someone who moves products around in a warehouse or manufacturing facility. They either do this manually or with the help of automated or semi-automated equipment. The equipment they use to move objects may include forklifts, conveyor belts, trucks, cranes, or even industrial robots.
Material handlers take on a lot of day to day responsibilities, including:
• Labeling and identifying materials
• Following safety rules and guidelines
• Getting finished products ready to be shipped
• Operating a variety of equipment
• Loading and unloading materials
• Working with production crews to review work orders
• Inspecting new materials for defects
• Placing orders for necessary repairs
• Supervising material storage areas and loading docks
• Maintaining records of where material goods are stored
Material handlers are involved in nearly every step of the production process in a warehouse.
How to Become a Material Handler
To work as a material handler, you will usually need at least a high school diploma or GED. In many instances, you'll need to have obtained your certificate to operate a forklift.
You also need certain hard and soft skills to work as a material handler. These handling skills include:
• Previous warehouse experience
• The ability to meet OHSA safety standards
• Team player
• Basic math and computer skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to keep a detailed schedule and prioritize
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work on your feet for an extended period of time
Because products are constantly coming in and out of warehouses, you'll also need to have a flexible schedule to work as a material handler. You should have night, weekend, and holiday availability. You can check out top warehousing companies near you to learn more about becoming a material handler.
How to Get a Material Handling Job
If you meet the above qualifications, then the next step is to start searching for material handling jobs. Luckily, there are material handling jobs all over the US. All you need to do is search online job boards, and you are sure to find a job in your area.
The job rate growth for material handlers is expected to grow by 3 percent through 2029, so there are plenty of positions to be filled in the next few years at least.
Material Handler Job Description: Time to Become a Material Handler
Now that you have read this material handler job description, it is time for you to decide if this is the right career path for you. If the answer is yes, then it is time to put your resume together.
And, be sure to check back in with our blog for more job profiles like this one for professional material handlers. We publish a wide variety of articles on career tips, role responsibilities, professional training, and position certifications.
