material handler.

The material handlers most commonly perform the following tasks:

• Receiving and processing materials and goods: handles new items arriving at the warehouse. During processing, monitors and inspects the quantity and quality of incoming goods. Before shipping, verifies orders to ensure the new shipment is complete. Accurate record-keeping and documentation of all materials shipped are essential.
• Materials handling and storage: this involves storing materials or finished products received in the warehouse. Use forklifts to unload trucks and organize the products within the storage areas. Additionally, you are responsible for inventory management, counting incoming shipments and storing them in designated locations.
• Supplier communication: your responsibility is to ensure that the manufacturing teams have enough materials for production. This involves coordinating with suppliers regarding material availability and placing orders in a timely manner. Additionally, you communicate procurement requirements to ensure that quality and quantity standards are met during deliveries.
• Operation of material handling equipment: uses various tools to move, load, and unload materials within the warehouse. Must be familiar with clamp attachments and manual hoists, as well as capable of operating forklifts and trucks. In addition to operating the equipment, performs regular maintenance to ensure they remain in optimal condition.
• Handling of defective shipments: as a material handler, you track the returned goods and inspect their condition. If you receive faulty materials, you follow the appropriate replacement procedures to ensure the inventory remains complete.

Material handlers working indoors are most likely employed in heated or air conditioned buildings with ceiling lighting. Outdoor facilities, on the other hand, are fully exposed to sunlight and weather conditions. In both cases, material handlers typically have large work areas, allowing them to move freely and perform various tasks. Some material handlers work at fixed locations, such as when packing food or performing specific duties. The job can sometimes include quieter periods, but overall, it’s a fast-paced environment where they handle multiple tasks during the day, often simultaneously.

Material handlers work with colleagues from various departments in logistics, manufacturing, and procurement. As a material handler, your team may include machine operators, warehouse workers, and forklift drivers. Additionally, you collaborate with assembly line workers, production staff, and other specialists, such as truck drivers, inventory management experts, and purchasing managers.

A material handler typically works in eight-hour shifts, sometimes with overtime. Expect to work at least five days a week, or even more if the employer requires extra help. Some warehouses offer longer shifts but fewer workdays, giving you the chance to have an additional day off. It's uncommon to have a consistent 9-to-5 schedule from Monday to Friday. The employer may ask you to work morning, afternoon, or night shifts depending on the company's needs. Additionally, you may be assigned to night shifts if the company operates 24/7. 

Most material handlers work on public holidays and weekends as well. Additionally, they may be required to work overtime during seasonal holidays if they are employed at a large warehouse or distribution center. When the facility is overloaded, they are unlikely to finish their work at the usual time and should be prepared for their employer to ask them to come in earlier during peak periods. Remote work options are generally not feasible, as physical presence is necessary to perform the tasks.

Working as a material handler offers a promising career with good job opportunities. Some warehouses are now using robots to move and organize goods, but material handlers still play an important role. The rise of automation in warehouses means that material handlers need to develop the skills required to work in modern warehouse environments. A career as a material handler can also serve as a stepping stone to successful careers in logistics and supply chain management. With the right qualifications, you can become a stock management specialist or a procurement expert.

There are several advantages to seeking a material handler position with the assistance of a Randstad consultant:

• a consultant with in depth knowledge of the manufacturing sector of the labor market supports the selection process.
• you can find a wide range of job opportunities on our website.
• whether you're looking for a fixed-term or indefinite position, we help you find the job that best fits you

In Hungary, individuals planning to work in material handling typically need to have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.

Additional professional training or certifications in warehouse management or material handling can improve your earning prospects and provide supplementary skills for your job. Suitable education and qualifications can be gained through training for warehouse workers, forklift operators, or logistics clerks.

Employers can typically provide training during work hours, especially when the position requires the use of specialized equipment or software.

Continuously interacts with the team, suppliers, and supervisors. Good communication skills help convey information clearly and improve active listening abilities.

Material handlers ensure that the production team always has the materials they need. Issues typically arise from poor communication or improper storage. Strong problem-solving abilities are essential for resolving problems that occur in the warehouse.

Capable of moving materials and operating machinery manually. These demanding tasks require physical strength. Additionally, physical endurance is necessary to perform long hours of standing work.

The material handler loads, unloads, processes, packages, and manages various goods. They typically work in a warehouse or shipping facility. Most material handlers operate heavy machinery, which requires proper training and certification.

Every material handler has their own specific responsibilities. Warehouse staff manage shipments and ensure the safety and cleanliness of the facility. Their tasks also include inventory management and loading trucks.

Material handling experience refers to previous work in warehouses, factories, or other industrial settings. This includes unloading trucks, transporting goods with equipment, scanning barcodes, and operating machinery. While not required to secure a material handler position, having this experience can be an advantage during the interview process.

Many companies hire material handlers who have a secondary education. This is a great entry-level job because it only requires basic skills and offers the opportunity to gain experience in warehousing and logistics industries.

A logistics material handler works directly within the supply chain. These employees work in warehouses that deliver products to stores or customers. The logistics material handler packages and ships items, manages returns, and stores goods in the warehouse.

Applying for  a material handler position easy: create your profile on Randstad, and browse our job offers near you. Once logged in, you can apply with just one click for the opportunity that suits you best through our website!