What Is a Material Handler Job Description?
If you’ve been searching for a material handler job description, here’s what you need to know: material handlers move, store, and track materials and products within warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers. It’s a foundational role in the supply chain — and employers across the country hire for it constantly.
Core Duties
A standard material handler job description typically includes the following responsibilities:
- Receiving, sorting, and storing incoming materials and shipments
- Pulling and staging products for outbound orders
- Operating forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment
- Maintaining accurate inventory counts and records
- Inspecting materials for damage or discrepancies
- Keeping work areas clean, organized, and safety-compliant
- Collaborating with warehouse, production, and shipping teams
The day-to-day work moves fast, and employers value workers who stay organized, communicate clearly, and take safety seriously.
What Skills Do Material Handlers Need?
Most material handler job descriptions call for:
- Forklift certification or willingness to obtain one
- Basic math and computer skills for inventory tracking
- Ability to lift 50+ pounds consistently
- Strong attention to detail
- Reliability and a team-first attitude
Many employers hire candidates without prior experience and provide on-the-job training, making this an excellent entry point into warehouse and manufacturing careers.
What Does a Material Handler Earn?
Material handlers typically earn between $16 and $22 per hour, depending on location, employer, and experience level. Workers who add forklift certifications, gain inventory management experience, or move into lead roles can push their earnings significantly higher. Full-time positions often include benefits, overtime opportunities, and clear advancement paths into supervisory roles.
Why Material Handler Jobs Are Worth Pursuing
Warehouse and distribution demand continues to surge across the U.S., driven by e-commerce growth and supply chain expansion. That growth keeps material handler job description requirements consistent and hiring activity high. Workers who build skills in this role position themselves well for long-term careers in logistics, operations, and warehouse management.
Find Material Handler Jobs With NCW
NCW connects job seekers with material handler opportunities and other skilled trade roles across warehouse & distribution, manufacturing, construction, and engineering nationwide. Our recruiters match your skills with employers who are actively hiring right now.