Material Handling Supervisor Job Description

A Job Description for a Material Handler

A material handler has a wide range of responsibilities due to the type of work they do. Depending on the type of materials worked with, and how hazardous they may be, the responsibilities can change on a daily basis. No matter where they work or what materials they work with, there are certain basic tasks that every material handler has to do.

Material handler job descriptions that don't work with hazardous materials will include things like staging the finished product, pulling orders from the inventory, and delivering production materials. Material handler may have to put materials into proper storage and shelves. They have products they need for fulfilling orders ready to move quickly when orders come in, and production areas are fully stocked.

Material handlers are often on their feet all day. They must be strong enough to lift and move boxes onto and off of shelves all day. The average salary for a material handler is over three times the average salary in the US.

The high end for material handler is around $45,000, and the low is $26,000. It can be assumed that positions with more hazard on the worksite will be more lucrative. If you are willing to work a lot and get the proper certifications, you can be a good candidate for the job of handling materials.

A Course on Chemical Handling for Material Handlers

A material handler can expect to make $11.90 per hour or $23,000 per year. You can get upwards of $19.00 per hour, which equates to annual salary of $39,500. You may want to consider your previous work experience.

If you are applying to become a material handler, it is a good idea to have some experience in the work environment you will be entering. Having experience in a warehouse, factory or construction site indicates to potential employers that you understand the working conditions and goal of the job. Many times a company will take you on without training because they want to give you the training and certifications you need.

Some companies prefer prior experience or certifications if they work with special materials. If you are going to become a material handler at a water treatment facility, it is a good idea to take a course on proper chemical handling since you may be working with chlorine or hazardous waste disposal. You can get more general licenses that will work for any material handler position, such as First Aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.