Warehouse assistants perform a variety of tasks in distribution centers, storage facilities, and large standalone retail product warehouses. They store and retrieve items, take inventory, prepare shipments, and clean facilities. The education and training requirements to become a warehouse assistant can vary depending on the setting, but most people are able find jobs with high school diplomas and little or no previous work experience.
In general, a person who wants to become a warehouse assistant needs to be in good physical shape. Walking, bending, and lifting are regular elements of the job, and it is important to be fit enough to accomplish daily tasks without getting injured or taking frequent breaks. Good vision with or without the aid of glasses is essential in order to accurately read order forms and quickly find items. In addition, warehouse assistants usually need strong basic math skills to take inventory and calculate weights and quantities of incoming and outgoing shipments. Finally, an individual must be able to communicate effectively with coworkers, truck drivers, and managers to ensure efficient operations.
Forklift training and certification are often needed to become a warehouse assistant in some facilities. Many companies provide training to new workers in their first few weeks of employment, but obtaining certification beforehand can significantly improve a person's chances of finding work. Many organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the United States offer in-person, correspondence, and online training courses and exams.
An individual who believes he or she is qualified to become a warehouse assistant can look for job openings by browsing newspaper ads, visiting job search websites, and talking to current warehouse workers. It is important to put together a professional-looking resume when applying for jobs to maximize the chances of landing an interview. During an interview, a person should be honest about his or her abilities and experience. An interviewee who speaks confidently and shows real interest in the job is likely to be rewarded with an entry-level position.
Once a person is able to become a warehouse assistant, he or she can expect to spend one to two weeks in training. Experienced workers can explain policies and demonstrate procedures. Some warehouses require new assistants to be work under close supervision or probation for several weeks to make sure they can handle the responsibilities of the job. With ongoing experience and proven skills, an assistant may be able to become a warehouse manager or obtain an administrative office position.