Warehouse Operative
What is the work like?
As a warehouse operative, you would handle goods and products that come through a warehouse or stockroom.
Your exact duties could include:
- taking delivery of goods and supplies
- checking for damaged or missing items
- storing goods in line with instructions
- moving stock around by hand, using lifting gear or a forklift truck
- picking and packing orders
- loading goods for dispatch (some jobs include making the deliveries)
- stock-keeping
- keeping paperwork up to date
- cleaning work areas.
You could be based in a distribution depot, a retail superstore or a manufacturing plant.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not need any specific qualifications to be a warehouse operative, but basic English, maths and IT skills could be useful. You would also be expected to have normal colour vision.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
You may need a driving licence or forklift licence for some jobs. See the related job profile for Forklift Truck Operator for more information.
You can find out more about this job, training information and the industry, by visting the Skills for Logistics website.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are working, your employer would give you training in safe lifting, carrying and handling techniques, storage requirements, and completing paperwork and computer records. They may also give you training to get your forklift licence.
You may be encouraged to work towards NVQ qualifications, such as:
- Distribution, Warehousing and Storage Operations at levels 2 and 3
- Storage and Warehousing at levels 2 and 3.
You could also take courses offered by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). You can work towards formal qualifications at introductory level and upwards, and they also offer a programme of Continuing Professional Development (CPD). See the CILT website for more details of these courses.
Where can I go for more information?
14 Warren YardWarren Farm Office Village
Stratford Road
Milton Keynes
MK12 5NW
Tel: 0870 242 7314
Earlstrees Court
Earlstrees Road
Corby
Northants
NN17 4AX
Tel: 01536 740100
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
Related profiles...
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries are around £12,000 a year.
- Experienced operatives can earn up to £18,000 a year.
- A warehouse team leader can earn up to £24,000 a year.
There may be productivity bonuses and shift allowances on top of basic pay.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would work up to 40 hours a week, usually on a shift system spread over five to seven days. Part-time, temporary work and overtime is often available.
Most modern warehouses are large, light and airy, but some goods, for example food or chemicals, have to be stored under special conditions, which may affect your working environment.
You would normally wear protective clothing like overalls and safety shoes, and an insulated jacket if you are working in chilled storage areas.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a good level of fitness
- good teamworking skills
- the ability to work quickly and efficiently
- the ability to complete paperwork and count stock items
- basic computer skills
- an understanding of health and safety regulations
- honesty and reliability
- a willingness to work flexibly.
What opportunities are there?
You could find work with supermarkets and high street shops, mail order companies, distribution companies, manufacturers, government departments, the NHS and the armed forces. Jobs are advertised in the local press, Jobcentre Plus and through recruitment agencies.
With experience, you could progress to team leader or shift supervisor jobs, warehouse management or move into the distribution side, for example, as an LGV driver. For more information about these roles, see the job profiles for warehouse manager and large goods vehicle driver.
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