Material Handler Interview Questions

An experienced material handler should be comfortable using most of the available equipment in a warehouse. A big part of the job involves using machines such as forklifts, pallet jacks and conveyors. This question will test an applicant’s experience with these machines, and also let you know if they would require additional training if you were to hire them. What to look for in an answer:

• Warehouse experience
• Whether the applicant will need additional training
• Familiarity with common warehouse equipment

Job site safety is very important in a warehouse, and a qualified applicant should be aware of the precautions and procedures they must take when working with potentially dangerous substances. This question tests the applicant’s knowledge of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), two important OSHA requirements for a safe workplace. What to look for in an answer:

• Knowledge of what these acronyms stand for
• Understanding of when to use PPE and MSDS
• Experience reading and using MSDS

Some materials require a specialized approach to handling or else they can be dangerous to the handler and those around them. A qualified material handler will most likely have taken certification classes to become specialized at handling a handful of materials, usually the ones they work with on a daily basis. Even if the applicant isn’t specialized in the exact materials your position works with, previous specializations will demonstrate a willingness and ability to learn. What to look for in an answer:

• Previous specializations and how they fit in with your industry
• Openness to becoming specialized in new materials
• Dedication to bettering themselves for their career

Material handling requires an employee to be in good physical health and have the physical stamina to be capable of carrying and overhead lifting between 25 and 70 pounds, depending on the warehouse. This question will give you a good idea about the physical health of a candidate and if their strength makes them a good fit for the position. What to look for in an answer:

• Strong and healthy individual
• Stamina to endure a long work day
• Ability to carry and lift the required weight overhead throughout the day

The job of a material handler isn’t restricted to the warehouse floor. Some parts of the job, such as inventory management, scheduling and order tracking, take place on a computer. A qualified applicant must have the knowledge and experience to effectively use the software your company implements to fulfill these management needs. What to look for in an answer:

• Proficient in warehouse management software
• Familiar with the specific software your company uses
• Willingness to learn new computer skills if needed

Material handlers must understand and follow the safety rules and regulations set by the warehouse. By asking this question, interviewers want to find out if candidates comprehend that their well-being and that of others in the warehouse depends on taking all possible safety precautions when handling and storing different materials. A responsible material handler can follow the warehouse's safety rules themselves and convince others of the importance of following them to make sure that the warehouse remains a safe workplace for all its employees.

The candidate's answer should include:

• Understanding of warehouse safety rules
• Responsible behavior
• Communication skills

A sample response would be something like this: