What Is a Material Handler?

Material handlers are a crucial component in the manufacturing industry. But what is a material handler and what does the job consist of? At Strom Engineering, we’ve recruited for the position for years, so we know the fine details. Keep reading below to learn what a material handler role is, what qualifications you need, what equipment you use in the position, and how to get a merchandise handler role.

What Is the Role of a Material Handler?

Like the name implies, a material handler works directly with products, materials, and shipping. Here are some of the job duties you can expect as a merchandise handler:

• Handle and move merchandise around a facility
• Manage material shipping and receiving
• Select merchandise according to customer orders
• Track production orders
• Load and unload product units
• Operate warehouse equipment 
• Ensure deliveries match orders
• Identify, log and record inventory

What Qualifications Do Material Handlers Need?

Most places want merchandise handlers to be able to do the job well, but they also realize the job can be taught if someone is able-bodied and willing. Many requirements include a high school diploma or G.E.D., one to two years of experience in a similar role, and the ability to lift up to 100 pounds. Occasionally, some jobs will ask that you work weekends, holidays, and evenings in this role.

What Is it Like Being a Material Handler?

Getting a job in material handling means that you’ll be in an active work environment where you are on your feet and moving the majority of the time. If you hate sitting still, a material handling position could be a good fit. The job requires that you lift a good amount of weight due to moving inventory around and loading or unloading equipment.

What Equipment Do Material Handlers Use?

Now that you have a better understanding of the material handler job role, you might be wondering what equipment you need to use on the job. Common material handling equipment includes:

• Forklifts & Hand-trucks
• Conveyor belts & Hydraulic Lifts
• Bucket elevators
• Inventory systems

Tools like this make your job easier by helping move heavy equipment more efficiently.

Related Content: Can I Get Forklift Certified On the Job?

How to Get a Job as a Material Handler

The easiest way to get a job as a material handler is through Strom Engineering. We help match anyone with the appropriate job skills to material handling and merchandise selection positions. If you are hoping to get hired as a seasonal, temporary, or long-term contract employee, browse our available job listings to get started.

Strom Engineering is a national staffing and recruitment agency, with a particular focus on manufacturing, engineering, assembly, and other trade positions. We match skilled candidates to temporary or project staffing positions. Learn more about how it works and check out our case studies for more information.