Materials Runner
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Pick up and deliver materials between storage areas and work areas
- Stage materials at the point of use before work begins
- Track material requests and confirm deliveries
- Check labels, counts, and basic condition of items before transport
- Restock frequently used items and notify the team of low inventory
- Keep aisles and staging areas organized and clear
- Follow safety rules for lifting, transport, and site movement
- Use carts, pallet jacks, or forklifts when trained and authorized
- Support receiving by moving incoming shipments to the correct location
- Report damaged items, shortages, and delivery issues quickly
Top Skills for Success
Reliability
Time Management
Attention to Detail
Communication
Teamwork
Basic Math
Inventory Handling
Order Picking
Material Staging
Forklift Operation
Pallet Jack Operation
Workplace Safety
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Warehouse Associate
Shipping and Receiving Clerk
Inventory Associate
Production Material Handler
Construction Laborer
Transition Opportunities
Forklift Operator
Inventory Control Specialist
Logistics Coordinator
Warehouse Supervisor
Purchasing Assistant
Maintenance Planner
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Forklift OperationInventory SystemsShipment ReceivingBasic DocumentationHazard AwarenessRoute Planning
Development SuggestionsAsk to cross-train in receiving and inventory counts, pursue forklift certification if your site uses powered equipment, practice accurate paperwork habits, and learn your site layout to reduce travel time and missed deliveries.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry Level25,000 to 35,000 USD per year
Mid Level35,000 to 45,000 USD per year
Senior Level45,000 to 60,000 USD per year
Growth Trend
Steady demand, driven by warehousing, manufacturing, construction, and facility operations. Hiring can rise during peak seasons and large projects.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
AmazonFedExUPSWalmartDHLTeslaBoeingGeneral MotorsHome DepotCaterpillar
Industry Sectors
Warehousing and DistributionManufacturingConstructionRetailTransportation and DeliveryFacilities Management
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a simple achievement log showing on-time delivery rate and error-free picks2
Request cross-training in receiving, cycle counts, or kitting tasks3
Earn a forklift certification if it is relevant to your workplace4
Build a strong safety record by following site rules and reporting hazards5
Learn item locations and common work orders to anticipate needs6
Apply for Material Handler or Shipping and Receiving roles after six to twelve months of strong performance