Warehouse clerks carry out general tasks such as receiving, monitoring, organizing, and maintaining stock. A warehouse clerk’s specific duties differ by whether the company sends or receives orders.
Some of the duties of a warehouse clerk across different companies are unloading deliveries, packing orders, managing stock records, and stocking shelves.
A warehouse clerk could be a great option for you if you are physically fit, can work flexible and odd hours, and do not mind taking on a bunch of tasks. Working a warehouse clerk job can help get the much-needed experience for advanced warehouse jobs.
You will also be required to follow safety guidelines closely to avoid workplace injuries and accidents.
Education Requirements
Most warehouse clerk openings don’t require much more than a high school diploma. Companies typically offer hands-on training that can last up to a month. The training usually covers routine duties and specific procedures for inventory management, record keeping, and order processing.
You could also get trained on the safe driving of forklifts and get forklift certification. Forklift training will involve video training, driving under close supervision, and taking a qualifying exam.
Industry
Warehouse clerks work in logistics companies, distribution centers, and manufacturing companies. As a warehouse clerk, you can also work in a retail store, as an independent staff, or as part of a team.
The environment in warehouses differs, and the temperature can range from very cold to very hot. You could also work different hours, from mornings and evenings to overnight shifts. Overtime hours are usually also available.
Earnings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2017, warehouse clerks make a median wage of $24,470. The earnings of warehouse clerks range from $18,870 to $40,360.
Earnings also differ according to the industry. Warehouses offer an average of $32,790. Merchant wholesalers pay warehouse clerks an average of $31,700. If you work in general merchandise, you can earn an average of $24,950.
Your level of experience will also influence your earnings. The average earnings for entry-level, mid-career, experienced, and late-career warehouse clerks are $27,000, $31,000, $32,000, and $34,000, respectively.
Job Projections
According to BLS, warehouse clerk job opportunities will grow by 5% between 2016 and 2026. The 5% increase is estimated to bring about 10,900 job opportunities.
Even with technologies taking over some duties, humans are still required for many activities such as stocking materials and shipping packages.
Warehouse clerk jobs still have good potential, now and in the nearest future, and can be a great start when looking to work in the warehouse industry.
We’ve covered the basic details of warehouse clerk jobs. You can now go on to consider and get a warehouse clerk job.
