Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Logistics Worker

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a highly motivated and reliable Logistics Worker to join our dynamic warehouse operations team. As a key player in our supply chain, you will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of goods from receiving to shipment. This role is the engine of our distribution center, directly impacting customer satisfaction and our overall business success. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with a keen eye for detail, a commitment to safety, and a strong work ethic. If you are ready to contribute to a high-performing team and grow your career in the logistics industry, we want to hear from you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer
Retail Stock Clerk
High School / Vocational School Graduate

Advancement To:

Logistics Team Lead
Warehouse Supervisor
Inventory Control Manager
Supply Chain Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

Shipping and Receiving Specialist
Forklift Operator
Inventory Analyst

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Receive, unload, and process incoming shipments and freight, meticulously verifying contents against purchase orders, invoices, or bills of lading to ensure accuracy.
Inspect delivered goods for damage, defects, or discrepancies, and promptly report any issues to the warehouse supervisor for resolution.
Utilize material handling equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks to safely move materials to and from storage areas, loading docks, and production zones.
Accurately pick customer orders from warehouse shelving, bins, and racks using RF scanning technology or paper pick lists to ensure high levels of order fulfillment accuracy.
Perform detailed packing, wrapping, and labeling of products for shipment, ensuring items are secured and protected to prevent damage during transit.
Prepare and assemble shipping containers, pallets, and crates, ensuring they meet both internal standards and carrier specifications.
Generate shipping labels, packing slips, and other required documentation using warehouse management systems (WMS) and carrier software (e.g., FedEx, UPS, DHL).
Stage and load outbound shipments onto trucks, trailers, and containers, optimizing space and ensuring proper weight distribution for safe transport.
Conduct regular inventory cycle counts and physical inventories to maintain data integrity and control stock levels within the WMS.
Organize and maintain warehouse inventory by properly stocking, sorting, and placing materials on racks and shelves according to predetermined locations and organizational principles.
Operate and maintain radio frequency (RF) scanning equipment to accurately track inventory movement, order fulfillment, and stock replenishment.
Adhere strictly to all company safety protocols, OSHA guidelines, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain a safe and hazard-free work environment.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area by sweeping, dusting, and removing debris from aisles and workstations as part of daily housekeeping duties.
Collaborate with team members and supervisors to resolve logistical challenges, improve workflow efficiency, and meet daily operational targets.
Perform quality control checks on picked and packed orders to verify accuracy and completeness before they are dispatched to customers.
Assist in the management of returned goods (reverse logistics), including inspection, restocking, and documentation of returned products.
Monitor and replenish packing materials and supplies, such as boxes, tape, and labels, to ensure continuous workflow without interruption.
Record and report operational data, including shipment volumes, order fulfillment rates, and inventory discrepancies, using computer systems or manual logs.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives by providing feedback and suggestions on how to enhance warehouse processes, safety, and efficiency.
Sort and consolidate materials from receiving or production for proper storage in the warehouse, ensuring efficient space utilization.
Perform kitting and assembly of product components into finished goods or promotional packages based on specific work orders and instructions.
Safely operate shrink-wrap machines or pallet wrappers to secure and stabilize palletized loads for storage or shipment.

Secondary Functions

Assist in training and onboarding new logistics team members, demonstrating proper procedures and safety protocols.
Perform basic preventative maintenance checks on material handling equipment and report any malfunctions or needs for repair.
Participate actively in daily team meetings, safety briefings, and training sessions to stay informed on operational goals and policies.
Support other departments with material handling and inventory-related requests as needed to ensure overall operational fluidity.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency in operating material handling equipment, including forklifts (counterbalance, reach truck), pallet jacks, and dollies (certification often required/preferred).
Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) for inventory tracking, order processing, and location management.
Competence in using RF (Radio Frequency) scanning guns for picking, putting away, and cycle counting inventory.
Knowledge of shipping and receiving software and portals (e.g., FedEx Ship Manager, UPS WorldShip).
Ability to read and accurately interpret packing slips, bills of lading (BOL), purchase orders, and other logistics documentation.
Basic computer literacy, including data entry skills and familiarity with MS Office (Excel, Outlook) or Google Workspace.
Understanding of inventory control principles, including FIFO (First-In, First-Out).
Familiarity with standard safety procedures and OSHA regulations within a warehouse environment.
Basic math skills for counting, sorting, and verifying quantities.
Ability to perform light assembly or kitting tasks according to specifications.
Experience with palletizing and shrink-wrapping goods for secure shipment.

Soft Skills

Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in all tasks.
Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting.
Excellent teamwork and collaboration abilities, with a positive and helpful attitude.
Effective verbal communication skills for interacting with team members and supervisors.
Proactive problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues as they arise.
Adaptability and flexibility to accommodate changing priorities and operational demands.
A strong work ethic, demonstrating reliability, punctuality, and a sense of ownership.
Physical stamina and strength to lift heavy objects (typically up to 50 lbs) and be on your feet for extended periods.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Vocational certificate in Logistics, Warehousing, or Supply Chain Management.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Logistics
Supply Chain Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-3 years in a related field.

Preferred: 1+ years of experience working in a warehouse, distribution center, or manufacturing environment. Previous experience with RF scanners and material handling equipment is highly desirable.