Warehouse Associate - 1st Shift (45390)

Warehouse Associate - 1st Shift

Salary Range $17.35 - $17.35 Hourly Position Type Full Time Job Shift 1st shift Category Manufacturing

Job Description

The Warehouse Associate is responsible for the accurate, safe, and efficient handling, storage, and movement of raw materials, packaging supplies, and finished poultry products. This position plays a vital role in supporting Holly Poultry's Retail - Tray Pack Division and overall operations by ensuring that products are properly received, stored, and distributed in compliance with SQF, USDA, and company food safety and quality standards. The role involves both warehouse and cooler/freezer environments and requires a strong commitment to safety, accuracy, and teamwork.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Receive, unload, and inspect incoming raw materials, packaging, and finished goods.
• Verify accuracy of deliveries against purchase orders and documentation.
• Use RF scanners to accurately record product movement, inventory transactions, and order fulfillment.
• Stage materials and supplies for production departments as scheduled.
• Pick, scan, and prepare customer orders for shipment according to load sheets and customer specifications.
• Operate forklift and pallet jack equipment safely and efficiently.
• Rotate inventory according to FIFO (First In, First Out) principles.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of warehouse, cooler, and freezer areas.
• Perform inventory counts and assist with daily, weekly, and monthly reconciliations.
• Ensure accurate documentation of all warehouse transactions in company systems.
• Follow all SQF, food safety, and people safety procedures at all times.
• Report any damaged product, equipment issues, or temperature concerns immediately to a supervisor.
• Assist with shipping documentation, bill of lading creation, and driver check-in/check-out.
• Work closely with production, QA, and logistics teams to ensure accurate product flow and timely deliveries.
• Support special projects or other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Basic math and recordkeeping skills.
• Experience with warehouse equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks (training provided if necessary).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work well as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of food safety and warehouse safety best practices preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8–10+ hours per shift).
• Frequent lifting, bending, pushing, and pulling of up to 50 pounds.
• Comfortable working in cold and freezer environments (temperatures between 0°F and 40°F).
• Must wear required PPE (personal protective equipment) at all times.

Work Environment

• Work performed in refrigerated, wet, and fast-paced production and warehouse settings.
• Regular exposure to raw poultry, coolers, and moving mechanical equipment.
• Strict adherence to Holly Poultry's safety, SQF, and company standards required.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Prior warehouse, food manufacturing, or distribution experience preferred.
• Forklift and pallet jack certification or willingness to obtain certification required.
• On-the-job training provided.

Performance Indicators

• Accuracy of shipments, receipts, and inventory counts.
• Compliance with food and people safety standards.
• Timeliness in completing tasks and supporting production schedules.
• Equipment operation and safety record.
• Dependable attendance and teamwork.

Schedule & Compensation

• Full-time position; hours may vary depending on production and shipping schedules.
• Overtime and weekend work may be required based on business needs.

Career Path

• Warehouse Associates may advance to positions such as:
• Warehouse Lead
• Inventory Control Specialist
• QA Technician