What is a picker packer?
Order picker and packers play a vital part in the supply chain. What is an order picker? Order picker and packer are an entry-level positions in a warehouse that prepare merchandise for shipping. Picker packers may also be called pick packers, warehouse pickers, or warehouse associates. Besides preparing products for shipping they may also pull inventory from storage.
What is a packer or order picker salary ?
A picker packers average salary can range from minimum wage up to $20/hr depending on your location, the hiring company, and your work experience. This is an entry-level job, so higher pay rates are not to be expected.
That said, working as a picker packer is a great way to get into logistics and supply chain work, as you will learn the business and processes from the ground up. As you gain experience and skills you can expect your pay rate to increase or lead to a promotion to a higher paying position.
What are order picker packer duties and responsibilities?
A picker packer will review orders, track down products in the warehouse, pack them, and prepare them for shipping to consumers. Picker packers may also be responsible for the transportation of products throughout the fulfillment process. As part of this process, they will use scanners when collecting products, to keep the warehouse’s inventory catalog up to date. Picker packers may also use computers while filling orders.
In order to locate, transport, pack and fulfill orders a picker packer will need the ability to lift up to 40 or 50lbs (job descriptions will tell you exactly how much weight you are expected to be able to lift), work on their feet, communicate clearly with team members, adapt to changing environments, and have a strong work ethic.
Some other job responsibilities for a picker packer include:
- attention to detail
- labelling and packing boxes for shipping
- loading completed customer orders
- sorting products
- stocking shelves
- transporting completed orders to the correct area
- working with the warehouse inventory system to ensure it is accurate and products are not lost or unaccounted for
How to become a picker packer
The easiest way to become a picker packer is to apply for any open position we have in your local area. Some things that our clients may take into account are if you have a high school diploma or a GED. Any similar work experience is also a plus. Also, as mentioned above you’ll need to be able to lift and carry heavy items, reach, and work on your feet your entire shift.
Becoming a picker packer is a great opportunity to start your career in the logistics and supply chain industry. Many companies will provide you with on the job training as well, so if you are looking for your first full-time job, look no further and start working right away.
A picker packer’s career path
Since the picker packer position is entry-level, you have a lot of options for where to take your career after gaining valuable work experience in this role. The obvious path is to work your way from picker packer up to team lead and then supervisor.
From there you have options within the logistics and supply chain industry to continue to grow your career as you gain experience, knowledge, and skills that will serve you well in managerial and leadership positions. You may also choose to pursue training or safety and regulatory positions within the warehousing environment, depending on your personality and interests.
Starting out your career as a picker packer doesn’t mean you have to stay in the logistics and supply chain industry. You can use your time as a picker packer to learn and hone valuable skills such as team work, good communication, becoming detail driven, having a strong work ethic, and being goal and outcome oriented. These skills are applicable to many different career options and can serve you well in the future.
Starting out as a picker packer can get you work experience and an income stream right now. We are always looking for people who are trainable, good teammates, and want to do their job well.