Material Handler Jobs in the United States

Material Handler Jobs Overview

As you explore material handler jobs, it's essential to understand what this career is all about. Material handlers play a crucial role in various industries by manually moving freight, stock, or other materials. This includes tasks like:

• feeding or removing material to or from machines
• cleaning vehicles
• packing materials for moving

Material handling often involves lifting heavy objects and repetitive movements. Most material handlers work full-time, with shifts exceeding eight hours, and some even work overnight due to the around-the-clock nature of shipping and handling.

With a projected growth rate of 5%, the outlook for material handler jobs is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth suggests more than one million job openings each year over the next decade.

In your quest for a material handler job, you'll see a variety of workplaces and industries, each offering unique experiences and challenges. The industries with most jobs for material handlers are:

• retail trade (33%)
• transportation and warehousing (22%)
• manufacturing (10%)

The top cities in the U.S. for material handler jobs are:

• Chicago
• New York
• Los Angeles

Salaries for Material Handler Jobs

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for material handlers is $37,510. It's important to note that salaries for material handlers can vary based on several factors, including location, industry, experience, and specific employer requirements.

Moreover, salary is just one part of the total compensation package you should take into consideration. Don’t forget that benefits such as overtime pay, paid time off (PTO), and shift differentials for evening or overnight shifts can also contribute significantly to your overall earnings.

For a more tailored look at your potential earnings, use Monster's Salary Tool. Calculate typical salaries for material handler positions by inputting the job title and your location. We’ll show you a personalized insight into what you can expect in your area.

How to Find a Material Handler Job That Fits You

Assess various factors to help you find the right material handler job for you.

• First, consider the type of materials you are comfortable handling and the industry that aligns with your interests and skills. For instance, manufacturing may involve handling raw materials for production, while logistics focuses on the transportation and warehousing of goods.
• Then, reflect on your strengths, such as attention to detail, ability to follow instructions, customer service abilities, and hand-eye coordination.
• Lastly, consider the work environment, typical work hours, and physical demands of the job.

Analyze Job Descriptions

When looking for material handler jobs, a detailed analysis of job descriptions is crucial. They provide insights into the daily responsibilities, required skills, and qualifications necessary for success in the role. Here's what to focus on:

• Core responsibilities. Understand the primary tasks, such as managing inventory, physically handling materials, ensuring efficient loading and unloading of goods, performing quality checks, and maintaining safety standards.
• Educational requirements. Identify the educational qualifications needed. A high school diploma or GED is typically required, and additional certifications like forklift or OSHA training might be preferred.
• Technical skills. Pay attention to the technical skills listed, such as proficiency in operating material handling equipment like forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyor systems.
• Work experience. Assess if the material handler job requires specific industry experience. Consider the duration and relevance of your previous roles in relation to the job description.
• Safety protocols. Material handlers often work in environments where safety is paramount. Look for mentions of safety protocols and compliance requirements.
• Physical demands. Many material handler jobs require physical strength and stamina. Check if the job involves lifting heavy items or prolonged standing.
• Soft skills. Skills like attention to detail, organizational ability, and effective communication are frequently sought after in material handler roles.

Research the Organization

Researching potential employers helps you understand not only the specifics of the job but also the company culture, growth opportunities, and overall fit. Here are some strategies to take:

• Review company profiles. Explore the company’s website, social media channels, and employee reviews to gain insights into the work environment and company values.
• Industry reputation. Investigate the company’s standing in the industry. A reputable employer usually indicates better job stability and growth opportunities.
• Safety and working conditions. Safety is a critical aspect in material handling roles. Look for information on the company’s safety policies, accident rates, and employee feedback on working conditions.
• Employee benefits and compensation. Beyond salary, understand the benefits offered, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for overtime or bonuses.
• Growth opportunities. Look for information on career development programs, internal promotion policies, and training opportunities. This indicates the employer’s commitment to employee growth and advancement.
• Network with current and former employees. Engaging with current and former employees can provide candid insights into the company culture and day-to-day responsibilities.
• Industry trends and outlook. Understanding the company’s position in the face of industry trends, like automation and e-commerce growth, can give you a sense of job security and future opportunities.

How to Apply for Material Handler Jobs

Applying for material handler positions requires a strategic approach to stand out in the competitive job market. This includes crafting an effective resume, writing a compelling cover letter, and leveraging the benefits of your Monster account.

Update Your Resume

Crafting a compelling warehouse worker resume is the first step to securing a material handler job. It's your opportunity to showcase your professional journey and convince potential employers of your suitability for the role. Your resume should:

• Highlight relevant experience. Detail your experience in material handling, emphasizing roles and responsibilities that align with the job you're applying for.
• Certifications and skills. Include any certifications like forklift operation or safety training. Also, list skills important to material handling, such as inventory management, operational efficiency, and adherence to safety protocols.
• Quantify achievements. Where possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements, such as “Improved warehouse efficiency by 20% through streamlined inventory management.”
• Format and clarity. Use a clear, professional format. Ensure your resume is easy to read and free of errors.

Need help from an expert? Check out Monster’s professional resume services.

Include a Cover Letter

Using a professional and courteous tone, tailor your cover letter to the specific material handler job and company. Mention why you're interested in the role and how your skills make you a perfect fit. Discuss specific instances where you improved efficiency or maintained safety standards, demonstrating your capabilities in material handling.

Submit Your Application

Create an account on Monster to streamline your job search. Here are some of the benefits we offer our members:

• Apply to multiple jobs easily and efficiently.
• Keep track of your job applications and follow-up actions.
• Upload your resume to increase your visibility and attract potential employers.
• Set up custom alerts for new material handler jobs, ensuring you never miss an opportunity.

How to Follow Up with an Employer

Once you've applied for a material handler job, following up with the employer can be beneficial. Here’s how to do it:

• Wait at least one week after submitting your application before following up. This shows your interest without being too persistent.
• If possible, address your follow-up to the hiring manager or the person who listed the job. Personalized communication is more effective.
• Email is typically the best method for following up. Keep it concise, and professional, and reiterate your interest in the position.
• Briefly mention your application, express your enthusiasm for the opportunity, and explain why you believe you are a good fit for the role, emphasizing any material handling experience or relevant skills.
• Politely ask if there are any further details they need from you or if there are upcoming steps in the hiring process you should be aware of.
• Always end with a note of thanks for considering your application.

Interviewing for Material Handler Jobs

Interviews for material handler positions are your opportunity to showcase your suitability for the role. Prepare with these tips:

• Review the job description to understand the skills and experiences the employer is seeking.
• Be ready to discuss your previous material handling roles, focusing on your responsibilities, achievements, and how you handled challenges.
• Skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving are essential. Prepare examples of how you've used these skills in past roles.
• Prepare questions about the role, team, or company to show your interest and understanding of the position.
• Even if the job environment is casual, dress professionally for the interview to make a good impression.

Commonly Asked Job Interview Questions

Preparing well for an interview involves anticipating the types of questions interviewers might ask you. Practice with these common interview questions designed to gauge your practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to safety and efficiency in a material handling environment:

1. Describe your experience with inventory management systems.
2. How do you prioritize safety in your work?
3. Can you give an example of how you’ve worked effectively in a team?
4. Describe a time when you had to handle a challenging situation in a previous material handling role.
5. Can you describe your previous experience in material handling?
6. How do you prioritize safety when working with heavy materials?
7. What types of material handling equipment are you proficient in using?
8. How do you ensure accuracy when managing inventory?
9. Have you ever identified a potential safety hazard in the workplace? How did you handle it?
10. Explain how you would handle a situation where you receive an incorrect or damaged shipment.
11. What motivates you in a material handling role, and how do you stay engaged during repetitive tasks?

Following Up on Your Job Interviews

The post-interview phase is as crucial as the preparation and interview itself. Here's how to follow up effectively:

• Within 24 hours of your interview, send a thank-you email to the interviewer. Express gratitude for the opportunity, reiterate your interest in the role, and briefly mention a key point from the interview to personalize your message.
• Your follow-up should be professional, polite, and to the point. Avoid overly casual language or sounding desperate.
• If it wasn’t discussed during the interview, politely ask about the next steps in the hiring process and the timeline for making a decision.
• In case of a rejection, respond graciously, asking for feedback if appropriate, and express your interest in future opportunities.

What to Do When You Get an Offer for a Material Handler Job

Receiving a job offer as a material handler is exciting, but you must handle it properly. Here's what we suggest to ensure a positive start to your new role and to maintain good relations:

• Examine all aspects of the offer, including salary, benefits, work hours, and job responsibilities. Ensure it aligns with your expectations and needs. If you have any concerns or need clarification on any aspect of the job, ask questions before accepting the offer.
• If the offer doesn't meet your expectations, don't hesitate to negotiate. Focus on salary, benefits, or other terms that are important to you.
• Once you've made your decision, respond to the offer promptly. If you have other pending job offers, inform those employers of your decision so they can move forward with other candidates.

Material Handler Career Paths

Material handling experience can lead to various career opportunities, offering you new challenges and opportunities for growth. Here are eight potential career paths with job listed on Monster:

1. Warehouse manager: Oversee warehouse operations, staff, and logistics.
2. Inventory specialist: Manage and track inventory levels.
3. Logistics coordinator: Coordinate logistics and supply chain operations.
4. Supply chain analyst: Analyze and improve supply chain processes.
5. Safety manager: Ensure safety protocols in warehousing and material handling.

Material Handler Jobs: Similar Occupations

Here are some other production jobs with similar responsibilities for you to consider:

• quality inspector jobs
• manufacturing jobs
• warehouse jobs