Job details
Location: Coquitlam, BC
Salary: $23 an hour
Job type: Full Time , Part time
Shift/Hours: Morning, night, overnight
Job Description
A material handler is a job role that involves the movement, storage, and organization of materials within a warehouse, distribution center, or manufacturing facility. Material handlers play a critical role in ensuring the smooth flow of materials and supplies throughout the supply chain process. Their main responsibility is to handle materials efficiently and safely, contributing to the overall productivity and efficiency of the operation.
Tasks
- Load, unload and move products and materials by hand or with basic material handling equipment
- Operate a variety of equipment to load, unload and move materials and products
- Make labels and attach to goods
- Organize and maintain inventory
Work conditions and physical capabilities
- Handling heavy loads
- Physically demanding
- Attention to detail
- Long term benefits
- Group insurance benefits
- Work Term: Permanent
- Work Language: English
- Hours: 40 hours per week
What skills and qualities are important for a Material Handler ?
Several skills and qualities are important for a material handler to perform their job effectively. These include:
- Physical Stamina and Strength: Material handling can involve physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and moving heavy objects or materials. Good physical stamina and strength are important to handle these tasks safely and efficiently.
- Manual Dexterity: Material handlers need good manual dexterity to handle and manipulate various types of materials, including packages, containers, or machinery components. They should be able to operate equipment, grasp and hold objects securely, and perform tasks that require precision.
- Attention to Detail: Material handlers must pay attention to detail to ensure accuracy in inventory management, labeling, and documentation. They need to identify and match product codes, labels, and quantities to avoid errors or discrepancies.
- Organizational Skills: Effective organizational skills are crucial for material handlers. They need to keep track of multiple materials, prioritize tasks, and maintain an organized work area. This includes ensuring proper storage and labeling of materials for easy retrieval.
- Safety Awareness: Material handlers work with various equipment, machinery, and potentially hazardous materials. It is important for them to adhere to safety protocols, use personal protective equipment (PPE) as required, and operate equipment safely to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries.
- Communication Skills: Material handlers often collaborate with other team members, supervisors, or suppliers. Clear and effective communication is necessary to understand instructions, convey information, and coordinate tasks to ensure smooth operations.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: Material handlers may encounter challenges or unexpected situations, such as discrepancies in inventory, damaged materials, or equipment malfunctions. The ability to assess problems, identify solutions, and take appropriate actions is valuable in maintaining workflow and minimizing disruptions.
- Time Management: Material handlers often work in fast-paced environments where efficiency is crucial. They should be able to prioritize tasks, manage their time effectively, and meet deadlines to ensure timely delivery of materials and products.
- Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing work demands, schedules, or priorities is important for material handlers. They may need to adjust their tasks, work with different materials or equipment, or handle unexpected situations efficiently.
By possessing these skills and qualities, material handlers can contribute to the smooth flow of materials, accurate inventory management, and efficient operations within a warehouse or distribution environment.
What education and certification are required to become a Material Handler?
The educational requirements for becoming a material handler are typically minimal. Most employers do not require a specific degree or formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent. Material handling positions often emphasize practical skills and on-the-job training.
However, some employers may prefer candidates who have completed relevant vocational or technical training programs. These programs can provide a foundational understanding of warehouse operations, inventory management, and safe material handling practices. They may also offer courses or modules on forklift operation and other equipment commonly used in material handling.
While not mandatory, obtaining certain certifications related to material handling can enhance your skills and qualifications. These certifications demonstrate your proficiency in specific aspects of the job and can increase your employability. Here are some relevant certifications:
- Forklift Operator Certification: Forklifts are commonly used in material handling operations. Obtaining a forklift operator certification demonstrates your competence in operating forklifts safely and efficiently. Certification programs are offered by various organizations and typically involve written exams and practical assessments.
- OSHA Certification: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers certifications in various safety-related areas. For material handlers, the OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification can provide valuable knowledge about workplace safety, hazard recognition, and best practices for preventing accidents.
- Warehouse and Distribution Certifications: Several professional organizations and industry associations offer certifications specific to warehouse and distribution operations. These certifications cover topics such as inventory management, warehouse operations, logistics, and supply chain principles. Examples include the Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) and Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) certifications offered by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC).
It’s important to note that the specific education and certification requirements can vary depending on the employer, industry, and the level of responsibility within the material handling role. Some positions may have additional requirements or preferences, such as a valid driver’s license or specific experience with specialized equipment. It’s advisable to research job postings and consult with potential employers to understand their specific requirements and preferences for material handler roles.
Who can apply to this job?
The employer accepts applications from:
- Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada.
- Other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit.
How to apply
Online: Apply On Company WebSite
What is the work environment like for Material Handler?
The work environment for material handlers can vary depending on the industry, the specific company or facility they work for, and the nature of the materials being handled. However, here are some common aspects of the work environment for material handlers:
- Warehouse or Distribution Center: Material handlers typically work in warehouses, distribution centers, or manufacturing facilities where goods are received, stored, and shipped. These environments are designed to accommodate large quantities of materials and may have various storage systems, such as racks, shelves, or bins.
- Indoor Work: Material handlers primarily work indoors, although some facilities may have outdoor areas for loading and unloading materials. The indoor work environment is usually climate-controlled to ensure optimal conditions for both workers and materials.
Physical Demands: Material handling can involve physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling heavy - objects or materials. Material handlers may also spend a significant amount of time on their feet and engage in repetitive motions. Good physical stamina and strength are important to handle these tasks safely and efficiently.
- Use of Equipment: Material handlers commonly operate a range of equipment and machinery to assist in their tasks. This can include forklifts, pallet jacks, hand trucks, conveyor systems, and automated material handling systems. Training and certification may be required to operate specific equipment.
- Teamwork: Material handling operations often involve teamwork and collaboration. Material handlers may work alongside colleagues, supervisors, and other departments to coordinate tasks, ensure smooth workflow, and meet production or shipping deadlines.
- Time Sensitivity: In industries with tight schedules or time-sensitive operations, such as distribution centers or manufacturing facilities, material handlers may need to work quickly and efficiently. They may be responsible for meeting specific productivity targets or adhering to strict shipping or production schedules.
- Safety Focus: Safety is a critical aspect of the material handler’s work environment. Material handlers should follow proper safety protocols, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and be aware of potential hazards in their surroundings. They may receive training on safe material handling practices, including lifting techniques and equipment operation.
- Varied Work Conditions: The nature of materials being handled can vary greatly. Material handlers may encounter a wide range of products, from small components to large and heavy items. Some materials may require specialized handling techniques or precautions due to their fragility, hazardous nature, or specific storage requirements.
- Shift Work: Material handling operations often run on various shifts to accommodate production or distribution needs. Material handlers may be required to work during different shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
It’s important to note that the specific work environment can vary based on the industry, employer, and the size and type of materials being handled. Employers are responsible for providing a safe and conducive work environment for their material handlers, including addressing any specific hazards or requirements associated with their particular material handling operations.