How to Become a Warehouse Associate

Warehouse associates pick and pull stock, ship and receive freight, implement strategies to maximize storage space and use industry-standard computer programs and systems to track inventory. Become an effective warehouse associate by using your organizational, problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Resume
• Valid driver's license
• Commercial driver's license

Prepare to Become a Warehouse Associate

1. Evaluate the position. A warehouse associate performs a variety of tasks, including loading and unloading freight, customer service, processing shipments and returns and forklift operation. Warehouse associates may work in several departments or specialize in one area.
2. Develop problem-solving and computer skills that can be used to track freight, resolve inventory discrepancies, coordinate international shipping and process orders. Warehouse associates may be responsible for ensuring the timely loading and departure of trucks, scheduling shipments, scanning and documenting inventory, ensuring accuracy of picked orders and replenishing stock.
3. Learn Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) software, which is essential for most warehouse associate positions. Become familiar with inventory control systems. Warehouse associates often participate in scheduled inventories.
4. Develop effective communication skills. The warehouse associate acts as a liaison between several departments, including management, purchasing, delivery and various vendors to streamline productivity.
5. Be prepared for the physical requirements required to become a warehouse associate. In addition to loading and unloading freight, you may need to secure inventory to pallets, lift between 30 and 75 lbs, bend, climb, reach, stoop and stand for long periods of time.
6. Obtain a high school diploma or GED, which is required by most employers. Some employers also require certification to operate heavy machinery and forklifts, a commercial driver's license and a clean driving record.

Search for a Job as a Warehouse Associate

7. Know that skills can determine the pay scale for a warehouse associate. Communication, data entry and basic math skills combined with related work experience and familiarity with a variety of shipping and inventory management software programs can increase your earning potential.
8. Update your resume. Emphasize positions requiring attention to detail, responsibility, organization, office and mechanical skills. Don't forget to make sure your references are up to date.
9. Search for jobs at job fairs, or post your resume online at job sites (see Resources below). If you attend a job fair, be sure to dress for an interview and bring along several copies of your resume, along with references.

Tips & Warnings

• Know that some employers may accept work experience and additional training in lieu of a high school diploma or GED.

Who Can Help:

• Learn more today about America's leading online University
• Flexible Scheduling, Online Programs, Get Info Now