How to Become a Warehouse Push Processor

A warehouse push processor must organize stock as it is received so that the merchandise can be inventoried and sold. Because stock must be added to inventory in a timely fashion, push processors must work quickly and accurately. In addition to tagging and storing merchandise, they also inspect incoming orders and for damage.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Forklift certification
• Updated resume
• High school diploma or GED

Train as a Warehouse Push Processor

1. Be familiar with distribution procedures and inventory control methods. A push processor sorts, tags and stores merchandise, often using forklifts to stack merchandise and barcode scanners to enter inventory.
2. Know the physical requirements for when you become a push processor. Repeated heavy lifting of 50 lbs. or more, bending and reaching are part of the job. Be sure to wear proper protection when lifting heavy items and take small stretch breaks when performing repeated tasks.
3. Develop customer service skills to use on the job. Push processors may deal with vendors and suppliers when returning damaged goods or verifying orders.
4. Learn current office computer software programs, brush up on math skills and develop communication skills, which can be useful in a team environment.
5. Become familiar with all warehouse departments. During down time, or when other departments are especially busy, you may be reassigned to help out in another area. Flexibility and familiarity are essential skills for a push processor.
6. Learn to spot damaged merchandise and how to record it.
7. Obtain a high school diploma or GED for most jobs. Many employers require additional certification for forklift operation and a valid driver's license.

Find a Job as a Warehouse Push Processor

8. Find job fairs in your area and resume advice online (see Resources below). Be sure to include on your resume all applicable skills and courses you've completed, such as computer classes, inventory management classes and equipment certification programs.
9. Post your resume on an industry-specific job-search site, (see Resources below).
10. Be brief. Keep email correspondence and cover letters to one page when applying for a job through the mail or online.
11. Update your list of references and make sure you have current contact information for them.

Tips & Warnings

• Employers may also conduct a background check and require drug screening.
• Know that warehouses can be noisy environments. Protect your hearing when operating forklifts and other heavy equipment.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
• University of Phoenix, degree Programs to Fit Your Life.