Warehouse Worker

Job Description:

Warehouse workers take delivery of goods and pack orders for dispatch.

Job Category:

Transport & Logistics

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What you will do:

In this role you could:

take in deliveries and check for damaged or missing items
use lifting equipment to move stock around the warehouse
check stock levels and make sure items are stored correctly
pack, wrap and load items to be dispatched
clean the warehouse

Skills:

You’ll need:

to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

thinking and reasoning skills
the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure (leadership skills)
to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
the ability to organise your time and workload (organisational skills)
excellent verbal communication skills
the ability to work well with your hands

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

Becoming a warehouse worker typically doesn’t require specific GCSE subjects, as the role is often entry-level and focuses more on practical skills and on-the-job training. However, having certain GCSE subjects can be beneficial and make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Here are some subjects that might be useful:

Mathematics: Basic math skills are essential for tasks such as inventory management, order processing, and measuring items.
English: Good communication skills are important for reading instructions, writing reports, and communicating with colleagues and supervisors.
ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Some warehouses use computer systems for tracking inventory and orders, so basic computer skills can be an advantage.
Science: Although not always required, science subjects may be helpful if you’re dealing with potentially hazardous materials, as a basic understanding of safety and chemical properties can be important.
Design and Technology: This subject might help if you need to operate machinery or equipment in the warehouse, as it provides a foundation in practical skills.

You can get into this job through and apprenticeship or by applying directly.

Apprenticeship

Depending on where you work, you could do a:

supply chain warehouse operative intermediate apprenticeship
express delivery sortation hub operative intermediate apprenticeship

Direct Application

You can apply directly to be a warehouse worker.

You might not need qualifications, but some employers may want you to have studied basic Engish and maths. You might also need basic IT skills.

Career tips

It may help when looking for work if you’ve done forklift training.

Further information

Warehouse worker jobs can often by temporary or available seasonally.

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 35-40 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends/bank holidays on shifts.

You could work in a warehouse. Your working environment may be at height, physically demanding and outdoors some of the time. You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could become a team leader, shift supervisor or warehouse manager.

You could also move into quality control, freight planning or distribution.

Warehouse Worker