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Order Picker Interview Questions

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Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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Whether you are preparing to interview a candidate or applying for a job, review our list of top Order Picker interview questions and answers.

  1. How would your warehouse colleagues describe your work ethic? See answer
  2. How do you ensure accuracy when picking complex orders? See answer
  3. How do you feel about working nights or weekends? See answer
  4. What computer software and technology are you familiar with using in a warehouse environment? See answer
  5. What valid certificates do you hold for using warehouse equipment? See answer
  6. The position requires the ability to move up to 30 kilograms. Are you able to perform this physical requirement? See answer
  7. How do you maintain a safe environment while still hitting production targets in the warehouse? See answer
  8. What process do you follow to minimize picking errors? See answer
  9. How do you deal with a high-priority deadline? See answer
  10. How do you ensure a safe working environment? See answer
  11. Tell me about a time you disagreed with a coworker. See answer
  12. What do you enjoy most about working with minimal supervision? See answer
  13. What unique qualities do you have that make you stand out from other candidates for the role? See answer
  14. Tell me about a time you caught a colleague’s picking error.
  15. Describe a time you didn’t make your picking quota.
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Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines

15 Order Picker Interview Questions and Answers

How would your warehouse colleagues describe your work ethic?

By asking the candidate to describe how their colleagues would characterise their work ethic, the question allows you to evaluate how the candidate sees themselves. What to look for in an answer:

  • Critical thinking skills to see different perspectives
  • Communication skills to describe ideas and concepts
  • Interpersonal skills for interacting with others in the workplace

Example:

"I think that most of my colleagues would say that I am a dedicated employee who goes the extra mile to help others around me. They would say I'm detailed oriented and pride myself on being accurate and efficient when I am picking orders."

How do you ensure accuracy when picking complex orders?

An order picker must be able to gather customers' orders accurately. The question's goal is to determine how the candidate maintains a high level of accuracy in their role. What to look for in an answer:

  • Attention to detail to ensure properly picked orders
  • Ability to follow processes and procedures in the workplace
  • Willingness to improve job accuracy and efficiency

Example:

"Accuracy is an important part of being an order picker. There was no specific protocol in my previous position, so I created my own to make sure my work was correct. As I was picking the products, I double-checked the location and bin number on the racking to my paperwork. Once I had everything collected, I would complete one last review to ensure products and quantities were right."

How do you feel about working nights or weekends?

Order pickers work in shifts, sometimes during nights and weekends The goal of the question is to evaluate the candidate's availability, and willingness to work during undesirable hours. What to look for in an answer:

  • Open availability
  • Positive attitude
  • Desire to do what's best for the team

Example:

"I have open availability and can work nights or weekends depending on what shift I am assigned. in my previous roles, I have been able to help the team by taking on shifts on nights and weekends."

What computer software and technology are you familiar with using in a warehouse environment?

Warehouses typically have warehouse management software. The goal of the question is to determine what experience the candidate has with software and technology related to the role. What to look for in an answer:

  • Familiarity with warehouse and inventory software
  • Ability to use a computer and other technology in the role
  • Ability to follow company procedures and processes

Example:

"In previous positions, I have used both Oracle and Fishbowl software to pick orders and complete quality control checks. I've used handheld scanners, tablets, and weigh scales in my jobs. I also am familiar with online software to assist with shipping manifests and waybills."

What valid certificates do you hold for using warehouse equipment?

To comply with workplace safety in your province of operation, you may require certified employees to use warehouse equipment. The goal of the question is to determine what qualifications a candidate currently has. What to look for in an answer:

  • Experience with company-specific equipment
  • Valid safety certifications for warehouse machinery
  • Understanding of safety protocols in the workplace

Example:

"In my previous position, I received certification for overhead crane and hoist safety, forklift operation, lift truck safety, fall prevention and transportation of dangerous goods. As we dealt with large pieces of machinery and harmful chemicals, these were important certifications to receive. I also have a valid standard first aid and CPR certificate."

The position requires the ability to move up to 30 kilograms. Are you able to perform this physical requirement?

You will typically require an order picker to perform many physical requirements within the job. The goal of the question is to determine if the candidate can fulfil the job's physical needs. Asking in this way promotes inclusivity. What to look for in an answer:

  • Willingness to work within the physical requirements of the job
  • Ability to think creatively and problem-solve
  • Communication skills to express safety concerns

Example:

"I understand the physical requirements of the job and can perform them all. I ensure to follow all safety requirements and complete a hazard assessment before starting a task."

How do you maintain a safe environment while still hitting production targets in the warehouse?

Creating and maintaining a safe working environment is everyone's responsibility. The question's goal is to evaluate the candidate's awareness of safety protocol in a warehouse environment while maintaining efficiency. What to look for in an answer:

  • Ability to follow safety regulations and procedures
  • Communication skills to express safety concerns
  • Ability to maintain a high level of productivity within safety protocols

Example:

"I feel that a safe work environment is productive. When the floor is clean, the team has organised the shelving, and everyone encourages safety, it is easier to hit production targets. For example, I make sure to always put my equipment away at the end of my shift. I don't leave products out for others to trip over. If everyone looks after the details, it benefits the entire team."

Tell me about a time you caught a colleague's picking error.

The question's goal is to evaluate how a candidate handles a potentially difficult situation with a colleague. What to look for in an answer:

  • Communication skills to address a concern with a coworker in a constructive and respectful way
  • Willingness to lead by example and be an effective role model
  • Interpersonal skills to create positive relationships with others

Example:

"I attempt to build rapport and trust with my coworkers so that we can rely on one another. When I catch a colleague's picking error, I bring it to their attention as soon as possible. If I have the time, I will correct the error myself and tell them when I see them next. If not, I will flag the error and let them correct it. Regardless, I remain positive and direct, being sure to never attack them personally for the mistake."

What process do you follow to minimize picking errors?

The goal of the question is to evaluate how the candidate maintains accuracy and consistency in their work. What to look for in an answer:

  • Ability to follow company procedures and policies
  • Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy when gathering orders
  • Willingness to improve their performance continuously

Example:

"When I am picking orders, I follow the process that the company requires. Each company is a little different. Typically, I gather my pick list from the computer or supervisor. I familiarise myself with what products I need to gather and what equipment I need. Then, I pick the order. As I go, I check each item off the list, verifying the item code, location, and quantity. When I follow a consistent process, I can minimize any errors."

How do you deal with a high-priority deadline?

There may be times when you have high-priority orders that your employees need to complete with utmost speed and efficiency. The question's goal is to determine how the candidate handles work deadlines and pressure in the role. What to look for in an answer:

  • Ability to remain calm and composed under tight deadlines and in stressful situations
  • Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy at all times
  • Time management and organisational skills

Example:

"When dealing with a high-priority deadline, I ensure I have all necessary information, paperwork, and equipment to complete the task. I prepare for the deadline by reviewing what I need to complete and by when. I review the order and plan my route in the warehouse to maximize my efficiency so that I don't have to double back to pick anything."

How do you ensure a safe working environment?

The goal of the question is to evaluate the candidate's ability to follow safety protocols and their awareness of creating a safe work environment. What to look for in an answer:

  • Ability to follow company safety procedures and processes
  • Willingness to be proactive and create a safe workspace
  • Communication skills to express any safety concerns as needed

Example:

"I try to always work safely, for my safety and those around me. For example, I complete all pre-use safety checks on the equipment I use, such as forklifts and lift trucks. I use fall protection equipment when I am working at heights. If I am working with hazardous materials, I follow all required protocols."

Describe a time you didn't make your picking quota.

It is common for warehouse employees to have specific quotas that you need them to meet every day. The question's goal is to see how the candidate handles situations when they cannot perform to the expected standards. What to look for in an answer:

  • Communication skills to express concerns that may affect their productivity
  • Time management and organisation skills to maintain efficiency in their role
  • Accountability for their performance

Example:

"One time, we were shorthanded at work because of a few coworkers calling in sick. On that day, there was a lot of disorganisation in the warehouse because key people weren't there, and I couldn't make my quota for the day. The next day, however, I took time to organise myself before I started my workday, and I made up for the previous day by exceeding my quota."

Tell me about a time you disagreed with a coworker.

Even though the work of an order picker is often solitary, the role interacts with coworkers, supervisors, and sometimes even customers. The goal of the question is to evaluate the candidate's communication and interpersonal skills in the workplace when dealing with others. What to look for in an answer:

  • Communication skills to interact in a respectful and positive manner
  • Interpersonal skills to build relationships with colleagues and supervisors
  • Willingness to resolve conflicts with mutual agreement

Example:

"I try very hard not to get into disagreements with my coworkers. There was one time, however, when a colleague was working unsafely in my area. It made me feel uncomfortable, so I brought it to their attention. I was polite and calm while asking them to stop what they were doing. They became upset with me. I explained how I felt by their unsafe actions and made the conversation about what they were doing, not about them personally."

What do you enjoy most about working with minimal supervision?

This question's goal is to evaluate how the candidate works with minimal supervision while maintaining accuracy and productivity. What to look for in an answer:

  • Communication skills to express concerns and thoughts
  • Ability to work without direct supervision
  • Time management and organisational skills to maintain work standards

Example:

"I love working with minimal supervision. I like to know that my supervisor is available to ask for help and guidance when needed. As long as I have my tasks for the day, the thing I enjoy most is organizing my workflow and trying to achieve better performance every day."

What unique qualities do you have that make you stand out from other candidates for the role?

The question's goal is to determine the candidate's special skills, abilities, and characteristics that make them unique. What to look for in an answer:

  • Communication skills to express thoughts and ideas
  • Creativity and critical thinking to apply knowledge and experiences to the current situation
  • Positive attitude and interpersonal skills

Example:

"One unique thing about me is that I hold the record at my previous position for having a 100% accuracy streak on my orders for 47 days straight. I'm very proud of that because we worked with many small items that were so similar in part number, shape, and size."

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