What does an Order Picker do?
An Order Picker is employed to prepare customer orders for shipment and delivery. They pick and pack items as per the order sheets they are required to fulfil. They are commonly employed to work in warehouses or storage depots, but increasingly are found fulfilling online orders in supermarkets or retail outlets. Order Pickers are also responsible for other warehouse duties, including loading and unloading shipments and deliveries, making stock checks and operating warehouse machinery.
Order Picker skills and qualifications
Order Pickers need practical warehouse skills to pick orders safely and efficiently. They also need to be in good physical shape and are required to have specific qualifications to legally operate certain warehouse machinery. A successful Order Picker candidate will also have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to use picking machines in warehouses and manually pick items
- Knowledge of in-house databases and order tracking software
- Interpersonal skills
- Ability to work while standing for long hours and consistently lift at least 20 kg safely
- Knowledge of warehouse health and safety policies and procedures
- Forklift driving licence
- Attention to detail
Order Picker experience requirements
Order Pickers need at least one year of experience working in a busy warehouse environment. Employers can look for candidates with experience working in supermarket stock rooms or storage depots. Employers can also consider applicants with experience working in logistics, such as Delivery Drivers or Lorry Drivers.
Order Picker education and training requirements
Order Pickers don’t require a formal education. However, employers will look for candidates with good GCSE results in maths and English to ensure they have the ability to communicate well. Employers usually provide on-the-job training, but some may prefer candidates with existing training, particularly if they need them to be trained in operating heavy machinery or forklifts. Entry-level candidates often gain experience through warehouse apprenticeships.
Order Picker salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of an Order Picker in the UK is £9.63 per hour. Their actual salary varies depending on several factors, including their level of experience, geographical location and the company where they plan to work.
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