How to become a Warehouse Associate

Warehouse Associates receive, move, store, pick, pack, sort, stage, and ship products while following safety, quality, inventory, and production procedures. The role is physically demanding, primarily onsite, and may involve forklifts, pallet jacks, scanners, warehouse management systems, and flexible shifts.

Top Skills Required

  • Receiving and unloading freight
  • Picking and packing orders
  • Sorting packages by destination

Education & Certifications

Typical: No formal degree required; employer-provided onboarding and equipment training are common.

Alternative paths:

  • High school diploma or equivalent may be preferred
  • Employer-issued forklift or powered industrial truck certification
  • Prior warehouse, shipping, receiving, production, or material-handling experience
  • Bilingual English/Spanish capability for some employers