Order Picker Job Description

An Order Picker is a type of job role that typically involves working in a warehouse or distribution center. The main responsibility of an Order Picker is to accurately and efficiently retrieve items from storage areas and prepare them for shipment. This often involves operating machinery such as forklifts or cherry pickers to reach items located at high levels.

Order Pickers can be found working in various industries, including e-commerce, retail, logistics, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. They play a crucial role in ensuring that customer orders are fulfilled accurately and on time.

An Order Picker is responsible for selecting and picking items from a warehouse inventory to fulfill customer orders. On a day-to-day basis, their tasks may include:

1. Reviewing order lists: Reviewing a list of orders or a computerized system to determine which items need to be picked.
2. Collecting items: Moving through the warehouse aisles and gathering the required items from their designated locations.
3. Verifying item accuracy: Checking the picked items against the order list to ensure accuracy and completeness.
4. Packaging items: Packaging the picked items securely and properly with appropriate labeling.
5. Organizing inventory: Placing the remaining inventory in their designated locations to maintain an organized and efficient warehouse layout.
6. Using equipment: Operating material handling equipment like forklifts, pallet jacks, or trolleys to move items as needed.
7. Maintaining cleanliness: Keeping the work area clean and organized and following safety procedures to prevent accidents.
8. Communicating with colleagues: Collaborating with other warehouse team members or supervisors to address any issues or obtain assistance if required.
9. Meeting productivity targets: Meeting daily picking quotas or productivity targets set by the warehouse management.
10. Updating records: Recording any discrepancies or errors encountered during the picking process and reporting them to the appropriate personnel.

Overall, an Order Picker plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate and timely order fulfillment while maintaining an efficiently run warehouse operation.

1. Attention to detail: Order pickers need to carefully review and understand customer orders to ensure they accurately pick and pack the correct items for shipment.

2. Physical stamina: This job can involve lifting and carrying heavy objects, as well as standing and walking for long periods. Being physically fit and having the stamina to perform repetitive tasks is important.

3. Time management: Order pickers must be able to prioritize tasks and work efficiently to meet productivity targets. Strong time management skills are essential for keeping up with the demands of a fast-paced warehouse environment.

4. Organizational skills: Having good organizational skills is crucial for order pickers. They need to be able to navigate through a warehouse, locate specific items, and keep track of orders to ensure accurate and timely fulfillment.

5. Teamwork: Order pickers often work as part of a larger team. They need to be able to communicate and collaborate effectively with colleagues to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

6. Basic math skills: Order pickers may need to perform simple calculations, such as counting units or calculating quantities. Basic math skills are necessary to ensure accurate order fulfillment.

7. Knowledge of inventory management systems: Many warehouses use computerized inventory management systems. Familiarity with these systems, as well as the ability to learn and operate new software, is important in order to track and manage inventory effectively.

8. Familiarity with safety procedures: Order pickers need to be knowledgeable about safety protocols and regulations in a warehouse environment. This includes proper lifting techniques, wearing protective gear, and following guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries.

Duties of an Order Picker:

1. Reviewing and Organizing Orders: Prioritizing orders based on their urgency and reviewing the details to ensure accuracy.
2. Picking and Packing Products: Using a pick list or handheld device to locate and retrieve products from shelves or storage areas and then packaging them securely for shipment.
3. Maintaining Inventory: Regularly updating inventory records and reporting any discrepancies to supervisors.
4. Operating Material Handling Equipment: Safely operating forklifts, pallet jacks, or other equipment to move and transport goods as needed.
5. Ensuring Quality Control: Conducting visual inspections of products to ensure they meet quality standards before packaging and shipment.
6. Maintaining a Clean and Organized Work Area: Keeping workstations, aisles, and storage areas clean and free of hazards to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
7. Collaborating with Team Members: Communicating and coordinating with colleagues, such as supervisors, warehouse staff, and delivery drivers, to ensure smooth order fulfillment and delivery processes.

The qualifications required for an order picker may vary depending on the specific job description and industry. However, some common qualifications include:

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Prior experience in a warehouse or distribution center setting, preferably in order picking or related fields.
3. Ability to safely and efficiently operate material handling equipment, such as forklifts or pallet jacks.
4. Familiarity with inventory management systems and basic computer skills.
5. Strong attention to detail and accuracy in picking and packing orders.
6. Physical stamina to lift and carry heavy items, often for extended periods.
7. Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
8. Flexibility to work different shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
9. Knowledge of safety protocols and ability to follow established procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
10. Strong organizational and time management skills to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

It's important to note that these qualifications may vary depending on the employer and specific job requirements, so it's always a good idea to review the job posting or speak with the hiring manager for more specific qualifications.

A good order picker should possess several important qualities to excel in their role. Firstly, attention to detail is crucial as they need to accurately locate and select specific items from a large inventory. They must be able to carefully read and understand order sheets to ensure that the correct items are picked. Organizational skills are also important as they need to navigate warehouse aisles efficiently, paying attention to product locations and categorizations. A good order picker should also be physically fit and have stamina as the job typically involves a significant amount of walking, lifting, and carrying. They should be able to handle pressure and work well in a fast-paced environment, meeting the demands of strict deadlines. Lastly, good communication skills are essential to coordinate effectively with other team members and ensure a smooth workflow. Overall, a good order picker should possess attention to detail, organizational skills, physical stamina, ability to handle pressure, and strong communication skills.

The salary expectations for an Order Picker can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and company size. On average, in the United States, an Order Picker can expect a salary range of $25,000 to $40,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start at a lower salary, while those with several years of experience or in supervisory roles may earn higher salaries. Additionally, some companies may offer benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans, which can also affect the overall compensation package.

Typically, an Order Picker reports to a Warehouse Supervisor or Warehouse Manager. They often work alongside other warehouse staff, such as inventory clerks, forklift operators, and material handlers. They may also collaborate with warehouse coordinators, shipping and receiving teams, and occasionally with customer service representatives or sales staff, depending on the organization's structure and processes.