How to become a Warehouse Worker
While there is no comprehensive list of qualifications to become a warehouse worker, most employers will expect applicants to have the following:
- Earn your high school diploma or general education diploma (GED).
- Apply to warehouse positions that are entry-level and can provide training.
- Receive or participate in on-the-job training from a warehouse supervisor or senior warehouse clerk.
- Advance your career through work experience, exceeding supervisor expectations and following protocol and instructions precisely.
What skills help Warehouse Workers find jobs?
- Assembly
- Basic math
- Bilingual
- Communication skills
- Computer literacy
- Computer skills
- Customer service
- Data entry
- English
- Food service
- Forklift
- Heavy lifting
Career progression for Warehouse Worker
Education levels for Warehouse Workers
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 86.3% |
| Associate's degree | 6.9% |
| Bachelor's degree | 5.3% |
| Middle school education | 0.9% |
| Master's degree | 0.5% |
| Doctoral degree | 0.1% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $21,900 |
| 4 - 8 | $24,200 |
| 8 - 12 | $25,500 |
| 12 - 16 | $26,200 |
| 16 - 20 | $26,500 |
| 20 - 24 | $26,700 |
Common qualifications for Warehouse Workers
- CDL
- CDL A
- Driver's License
- Forklift Certification
Common questions about career advices for a Warehouse Worker
What is the job outlook for warehouse workers?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the warehousing and storage industry is expected to see an overall 7% increase in available jobs during the decade between 2012 and 2022.
What are some of the skills warehouse workers should possess?
Warehouse workers should have excellent attention to detail, as well as efficient communication skills. Organizational skills are also a top priority, as warehouse workers are responsible for maintaining and keeping inventory records.
How can a warehouse worker advance their career?
With experience, a warehouse worker may advance their career by participating in training or moving up to the position of warehouse supervisor, floor supervisor or may even advance to a role in the purchasing department, where they might handle customer accounts and orders.
