In distribution centers, storage facilities, and large standalone retail product warehouses, warehouse assistants perform a variety of tasks. They take inventory, prepare shipments, and clean facilities in addition to storing and retrieving items. The education and training requirements for becoming a warehouse assistant vary setting, but most people with a high school diploma and little or no prior work experience can find work.
A person who wants to work as a warehouse assistant should be in good physical condition. Walking, bending, and lifting are all part of the job, and it’s critical to be in good enough shape to complete daily tasks without becoming injured or needing to take frequent breaks. Good vision, with or without glasses, is required to read order forms accurately and locate items quickly. Warehouse assistants also require strong basic math skills in order to take inventory and calculate the weights and quantities of incoming and outgoing shipments. Finally, to ensure efficient operations, an individual must be able to communicate effectively with coworkers, truck drivers, and managers.
In some facilities, forklift training and certification are required to work as a warehouse assistant. Many employers provide training to new employees during their first few weeks on the job, but obtaining certification ahead of time can significantly improve a person’s job prospects. Many organizations, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the United States, offer training and exams in person, mail, and online.
A person who believes he or she is qualified to work as a warehouse assistant can look for job openings in the newspaper, on job search websites, and speaking with current warehouse employees. When applying for jobs, it’s critical to create a professional-looking resume to increase your chances of getting an interview. A person should be honest about his or her abilities and experience during an interview. An entry-level position is likely to be offered to an interviewee who speaks confidently and shows genuine interest in the job.
A person who is qualified to work as a warehouse assistant should expect to spend one to two weeks in training. Workers with a lot of experience can explain policies and show you how to do things. Some warehouses require new assistants to work under close supervision or on probation for a period of time to ensure that they are capable of handling the job’s responsibilities. An assistant may be able to advance to warehouse manager or administrative office position with continued experience and demonstrated skills.