Material Handler

Career Guide
A Material Handler moves, stores, stages, and tracks materials in warehouses, factories, and distribution centers. The role supports safe, accurate, and timely flow of goods so production and shipping can run smoothly.

Key Responsibilities

  • Receive incoming shipments and verify counts
  • Inspect materials for visible damage
  • Label items and update basic inventory records
  • Store materials in assigned locations
  • Pick materials for production or shipping orders
  • Stage pallets and cartons for loading
  • Load and unload trucks using approved equipment
  • Operate pallet jacks and forklifts when certified
  • Follow safety rules for lifting and traffic lanes
  • Keep work areas clean and organized
  • Report low stock, damage, and mislabels to supervisors
  • Support cycle counts and physical inventory checks

Top Skills for Success

Attention to Detail
Reliability
Time Management
Teamwork
Communication
Physical Stamina
Safe Lifting
Forklift Operation
Pallet Jack Operation
Inventory Counting
Barcode Scanning
Shipping and Receiving

Career Progression

Can Lead To
Warehouse Associate
Shipping Associate
Receiving Associate
Forklift Operator
Transition Opportunities
Inventory Control Specialist
Warehouse Lead
Shift Supervisor
Warehouse Coordinator
Logistics Coordinator
Quality Inspector

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills
Forklift CertificationInventory AccuracyBasic Computer SkillsWarehouse Safety PracticesMaterial Labeling StandardsOrder Picking Accuracy
Development SuggestionsAsk to be cross-trained in receiving, picking, and inventory counts. Pursue forklift certification through your employer or a local training provider. Build comfort with handheld scanners and basic inventory screens by volunteering for cycle counts and label checks.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range
Entry Level24,000 to 34,000 USD per year
Mid Level34,000 to 45,000 USD per year
Senior Level45,000 to 60,000 USD per year
Growth Trend
Steady demand driven by warehousing, distribution, manufacturing, and e-commerce. Hiring tends to increase during peak shipping seasons and in regions with large logistics hubs.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers
AmazonWalmartFedExUPSDHLTargetHome DepotCostcoPepsiCoCoca-ColaBoeingGeneral Motors
Industry Sectors
Warehousing and DistributionManufacturingRetail DistributionFood and BeverageAutomotiveAerospaceHealthcare SuppliesThird-Party Logistics

Recommended Next Steps

1
Get forklift certified if your site uses powered equipment
2
Track personal accuracy metrics such as pick errors and damage incidents
3
Learn one additional area such as receiving, putaway, or shipping each quarter
4
Practice clear handoffs using item counts and location notes
5
Update your resume with equipment used, shift environment, and safety record
6
Pursue a lead role by mentoring new hires and owning a small area of the floor