Warehouse Worker

Your Fit

Income

$39K

Preparation

Some

Growth

5.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Warehouse Worker?

A Warehouse Worker is involved in the handling, storing, and organizing of goods within a warehouse setting. This role includes tasks such as packing, sorting, loading, and maintaining inventory.

Sample job titles:

Laborer, Loader, Material Handler, Warehouse Worker

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Warehouse Worker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Warehouse Worker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$31K per year	$35K per year	$39K per year	$46K per year	$53K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $11K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Warehouse Worker do?

Work environment

Warehouse Workers typically work in large industrial buildings where goods are stored. The environment can be fast-paced and may require operating machinery like forklifts. Safety protocols are important due to the handling of heavy goods and use of equipment.

Quick task list

Receives and processes incoming stock and materials.
Picks and fills orders from stock.
Packs and ships orders.
Manages, organizes, and retrieves stock.
Operates warehouse machinery such as forklifts.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Inventory Management: Specializing in tracking and managing inventory levels, orders, and deliveries.
Forklift Operation: Operating forklifts for moving and organizing heavy goods.
Order Fulfillment: Focusing on picking, packing, and shipping orders efficiently.
Quality Control: Ensuring the quality of goods received and shipped meets standards.
Hazardous Materials Handling: Specializing in the storage and transport of hazardous goods, requiring additional certifications.

Description

Warehouse Workers are essential in the logistics chain, ensuring that goods are processed, stored, and transported efficiently and safely. They play a critical role in the receipt of goods, checking for damages, and ensuring accurate inventory records. Their responsibilities include organizing the warehouse layout for easy access to goods, which requires physical stamina and attention to detail.

Warehouse Workers often operate machinery such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks, requiring skill and adherence to safety procedures. Technological skills are increasingly important, as many warehouses use computerized systems for inventory management and order processing.

The role can be physically demanding, involving lifting, bending, and standing for long periods. It suits individuals who enjoy active work and are capable of following systematic processes. Teamwork is also crucial, as workers often collaborate to complete tasks efficiently.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Being part of a team and contributing to the overall supply chain process.
The physical nature of the work, providing a sense of accomplishment.
Opportunities for skill development, particularly in machinery operation and logistics.

You might make a good Warehouse Worker if you are...

Physically fit and comfortable with manual labor.
Detail-oriented, especially in handling inventory.
Skilled at operating or willing to learn how to operate warehouse machinery.
Able to work well in a team and communicate effectively.
Interested in logistics and supply chain processes.

Pros:

Opportunities for physical activity at work.
Skill development in logistics and machinery operation.
Stable job opportunities in various industries.

Cons:

The work can be physically demanding and repetitive.
Working conditions may be challenging, including cold or hot environments.
The need for strict adherence to safety guidelines.

How to become a Warehouse Worker

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is often sufficient. Specific training for machinery operation or logistics may be provided on the job, with additional certifications beneficial for career advancement.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physical education classes to build physical stamina.
Technical education for basic machinery skills.
Mathematics for inventory tracking.
Computer classes for learning inventory software and systems.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Sports or physical activities to build strength and endurance.
Part-time jobs or volunteering in logistics or retail settings.
Clubs or activities that involve teamwork and organization.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training in logistics, warehousing, or supply chain management.
Certification programs for forklift operation or hazardous materials handling.
Entry-level positions in warehouses to gain hands-on experience.

More resources

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Provides guidelines on workplace safety.
Warehouse Education and Research Council (WERC) - Offers resources and networking opportunities in the warehousing field.
Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) - Provides education and professional development in supply chain management.
National Forklift Exchange - Offers information on forklift operation and safety.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.