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What should I expect working in a warehouse job?
Do you have to do a lot of math working for a company like Amazon or any company that requires you to work in a warehouse?
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4 answers
Kevin Drevik
Director of Industrial Engineering at NFI Industries
9
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
A lot depends on the job you are applying for. If it is a general warehouse worker, you can expect to unload trucks (lift boxes 5-40 lbs and place on pallets), pick orders (either picking individual pieces into boxes, or boxes onto pallets), pack orders (pack individual pieces into shipping boxes, and properly label the boxes for shipment) and load trailers (loading individual boxes or using a pallet jack (a piece of unpowered equipment) to load pallets onto the trailer. As you gain experience, you will get trained in pieces of material handling equipment (forklifts, electric pallet jacks, pallet movers known as reach trucks, etc.). This will mean you won't be lifting as much weight, and will be moving larger loads with the equipment. You will also receive higher pay for this type of work
Another job is the clerical function. This will involve more work on a computer, printing out orders & labels for receipt and shipment, and organizing work for the other warehouse workers. You will need a little more computer knowledge for this, but not too much.
Finally, as you move up in responsibility, you may be promoted to a warehouse lead (hourly leader of 8-12 employee team) and then a supervisor (have 1-3 leads and 10-30 employees reporting to you). Now you will need to develop leadership skills as well as warehousing skills.
Another job is the clerical function. This will involve more work on a computer, printing out orders & labels for receipt and shipment, and organizing work for the other warehouse workers. You will need a little more computer knowledge for this, but not too much.
Finally, as you move up in responsibility, you may be promoted to a warehouse lead (hourly leader of 8-12 employee team) and then a supervisor (have 1-3 leads and 10-30 employees reporting to you). Now you will need to develop leadership skills as well as warehousing skills.
Updated
Navya’s Answer
The role you choose to pursue does indeed matter. If your path leads you to a leadership position, such as an area manager or operations manager, you'll be at the helm of both people and operations within your designated department. A thorough understanding of supply chain processes and the journey of a product through the building is essential.
Moreover, it's vital to be aware of the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that will gauge your performance. Knowing what elements influence these KPIs can significantly boost your success in the role.
Prepare yourself to interact with a diverse range of personalities! This is a wonderful opportunity that will equip you with a variety of skills. So, embrace the journey and let it shape you into a stronger leader!
Moreover, it's vital to be aware of the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that will gauge your performance. Knowing what elements influence these KPIs can significantly boost your success in the role.
Prepare yourself to interact with a diverse range of personalities! This is a wonderful opportunity that will equip you with a variety of skills. So, embrace the journey and let it shape you into a stronger leader!
Updated
Keyston’s Answer
Working in a warehouse job can be physically demanding but rewarding. In my experience as a facility maintenance supervisor, I've found that math skills aren't a major requirement for such roles. Attention to detail, teamwork, and good organization are more important. Every job is different, but don't stress about the math aspect too much – focus on being reliable and learning on the job.
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Gwen’s Answer
You should expect to carry heavy loads and to use your organizational skills