Material handlers load and move materials, requiring physical endurance and organizational skills. Entry-level positions provide on-the-job training, while a technical degree or certification in materials management can give a competitive edge. Promotion opportunities may arise, and regular safety training is necessary.
Material handlers are responsible for loading and moving materials to a factory yard, warehouse, or other job site. Material handling requires a very high level of physical endurance, organizational skills and the ability to record and inventory materials. To become a material handler, it is helpful to gain entry-level warehouse experience and earn a technical degree in material handling or distribution management.
Many material handlers start their careers by securing an entry-level position as a shipping assistant or a forklift driver. Shipping workers are responsible for collecting and distributing materials and ensuring items are correctly located for distribution. Forklift operators move materials onto trucks or into warehouse storage. These entry-level positions provide employees with on-the-job warehouse training and are usually easy to obtain with a high school diploma.
Starting out as an entry-level warehouse worker, employees learn firsthand what it takes to become a material handler. Dispatch workers and forklift operators will easily become accustomed to the various equipment needed to handle materials, learn to read package instructions, and gain exposure to the tasks necessary for successful material handling and distribution. To become a material handler and stand out in the industry, it is advisable to work at a technical level while working part-time in a distribution warehouse.
A technical degree or certification in materials management or distribution will often give employees a competitive advantage in becoming a materials handler. A certification program typically covers procedures for handling hazardous materials, route mapping, and equipment security. Students can also learn management skills and supervisory tactics to supervise warehouse workers.
Most professional certificates take about a year to complete. It may provide an added advantage to earn a two-year associate degree in industrial systems technology. An associate degree will give you more competitive advantage and negotiation leverage when applying for material handler positions.
Promotion opportunities may become available at the current workplace or may be pursued through external resources. Many technical and vocational schools have job placement programs that help workers find secure jobs with competitive pay. Other material handlers may approach their employers after earning a degree and several years of work experience and requesting a promotion to material handler or distribution manager.
Material handlers may be required to attend regular workshops or seminars on warehouse safety procedures. These workshops train employees on how to safely operate equipment and lift heavy materials without causing injury. As technological equipment advances, it may be necessary for material handlers to attend training courses on operating and repairing new equipment.
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