Material Handler
Career GuideKey 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 equipment2
Track personal accuracy metrics such as pick errors and damage incidents3
Learn one additional area such as receiving, putaway, or shipping each quarter4
Practice clear handoffs using item counts and location notes5
Update your resume with equipment used, shift environment, and safety record6
Pursue a lead role by mentoring new hires and owning a small area of the floor