Order Picker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of logistics, the role of an Order Picker has never been more crucial.

As supply chains evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can efficiently and accurately fulfill orders grows steadily.

But let’s demystify this: What’s truly expected from an Order Picker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drawing up the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the day-to-day tasks of an Order Picker,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Order Picker job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Order Picker Duties and Responsibilities

Order Pickers fulfill a crucial role in the distribution process, ensuring that all orders are accurately and efficiently picked and prepared for delivery.

This physically demanding job involves operating warehouse equipment, working with a team, and ensuring that all orders are correctly picked and shipped.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Reading customer orders to identify the items that need to be picked from warehouse inventory
• Locating products in the warehouse using technology or manual methods
• Picking the correct quantity of each product, checking product information such as size, weight, and type to ensure accuracy
• Packing items for shipment, ensuring they are safely and securely packed to prevent damage during transit
• Operating warehouse equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and shrink wrap machines
• Keeping track of inventory and reporting any shortages or discrepancies
• Maintaining a clean and safe work environment, adhering to health and safety procedures
• Performing other warehouse duties as required, such as restocking shelves and managing warehouse storage

 

Order Picker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent and efficient Order Picker to be responsible for the accurate picking, checking, and packing of goods for dispatch.

Order Picker responsibilities include locating the items on the picking list from the warehouse, checking items for any damage, and packaging items according to specified standards.

Our ideal candidates are detail-oriented, able to work at a fast pace, and are familiar with the use of RF scanners and warehouse inventory systems.

Ultimately, the role of the Order Picker is to ensure that the correct quantities of items are picked, quality checked, properly packed, and prepared for shipment.

 

Responsibilities

• Efficiently assemble customer orders from order lists
• Operate RF scanners and warehouse management systems
• Inspect items to ensure they are undamaged
• Verify the quantity and quality of items against order lists
• Wrap, pack, and label completed orders for shipment
• Keep the working area clean and safe
• Report discrepancies or issues to the warehouse supervisor
• Assist with warehouse inventory counts
• Comply with company policies and legal guidelines

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Order Picker, Warehouse Worker, or similar role
• Good understanding of warehouse data systems
• Experience with RF scanners
• Physical stamina and strength to lift heavy items
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Attention to detail
• High school diploma or equivalent qualification

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Order Picker
• Work Environment: This job is physically demanding, involves lifting, carrying and working on feet for extended periods. The environment can be noisy and may require protective clothing.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Warehouse Supervisor or Warehouse Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Order Picker Do?

Order Pickers typically work in a warehouse or distribution center for various industries from retail to manufacturing.

They are tasked with locating, picking and collecting merchandise from the warehouse floor, using a hand-held scanner or similar device to track inventory and ensure the correct items are picked.

Their responsibilities also include packing and preparing orders for shipment, ensuring they meet the required standards and deadlines.

Order Pickers may also be responsible for maintaining the organization and cleanliness of the warehouse, restocking shelves and informing their supervisor of any inventory discrepancies.

They need to adhere to safety procedures and guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of themselves and their colleagues.

In some instances, they may be required to operate machinery such as forklifts or pallet jacks to assist in their tasks.

Accuracy, speed, and efficiency are crucial in this role, as order pickers play a significant role in ensuring customers receive the correct products on time.

 

Order Picker Qualifications and Skills

Order Pickers must possess a range of physical, technical and soft skills to efficiently fulfill their roles, including:

• Physical strength and stamina to lift, move and carry heavy items for extended periods.
• Organizational skills and attention to detail to accurately pick and pack orders according to company specifications.
• Basic math skills for counting, adding and subtracting items to ensure correct quantities are picked and packed.
• Ability to use warehouse machinery and equipment such as pallet jacks, forklifts, and order pickers, and willingness to undergo necessary training for safe operation.
• Proficiency in inventory software, databases, and systems to accurately track and record items picked and packed.
• Good communication skills to interact effectively with team members and supervisors, and to report any issues or discrepancies in orders.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify any errors in the order picking process, such as incorrect item quantities or damaged goods.
• Time management skills to ensure orders are picked, packed, and prepared for shipment in a timely manner.

 

Order Picker Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for an Order Picker role may have no previous experience, but on-the-job training is typically provided.

However, having prior experience in a warehouse or retail environment can be advantageous.

Within the first year of working as an Order Picker, individuals would gain experience with packing and sorting products, using electronic inventory systems and operating warehouse machinery.

They would also develop an understanding of safety protocols and standards.

Those with 2 to 3 years of experience as an Order Picker may have deeper knowledge of warehouse operations, improved efficiency in picking orders, and could be responsible for training new staff members.

Order Pickers with more than 5 years of experience may have advanced to supervisory roles, overseeing the work of other pickers and coordinating daily warehouse operations.

They may also be involved in optimizing inventory management systems and enhancing warehouse productivity.

 

Order Picker Education and Training Requirements

Order Pickers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

The job mostly involves on-the-job training where order pickers learn how to use the necessary equipment and software.

They also learn about safety guidelines and protocols in the warehouse setting.

Experience in a warehouse or distribution center can be advantageous, but it’s not generally a requirement.

Order Pickers must be able to read and interpret digital and paper orders, so basic computer literacy is often necessary.

Some positions may also require familiarity with specific warehouse software or inventory management systems.

While not required, some order pickers may choose to obtain a certification in warehouse operations or a related field to enhance their skills and employability.

Physical fitness is also an important requirement as the role often involves lifting heavy items and being on your feet for extended periods.

 

Order Picker Salary Expectations

An Order Picker can expect to earn an average wage of $14.50 (USD) per hour.

Actual earnings may differ depending on factors such as experience, the company they work for, and the location of their employment.

 

Order Picker Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Order Picker need?

Order Pickers need excellent attention to detail to accurately fulfil customer orders.

They should possess good physical stamina as the job often requires lifting heavy items and being on their feet for extended periods.

Good organizational skills, the ability to work efficiently under pressure, and basic arithmetic skills for inventory counts are also beneficial.

 

Do Order Pickers require specific qualifications?

Typically, Order Pickers do not require any specific educational qualifications.

However, some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or GED.

Prior experience in a warehouse or manufacturing environment may be advantageous.

It’s also important for Order Pickers to have knowledge of warehouse safety protocols and the ability to operate machinery like forklifts.

 

What should you look for in an Order Picker resume?

On an Order Picker’s resume, you should look for experience in picking and packing orders, as well as any experience operating warehouse machinery like forklifts or pallet jacks.

Skills to look out for include attention to detail, organization, and time management.

Familiarity with warehouse management systems or inventory software is also a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Order Picker?

A good Order Picker is one who is diligent, detail-oriented, and capable of working quickly and accurately under pressure.

They should have good physical stamina and hand-eye coordination.

They should also be reliable, as they play a crucial role in the order fulfilment process.

An excellent Order Picker also understands the importance of safety in a warehouse environment and adheres strictly to all safety procedures.

 

Is it difficult to hire Order Pickers?

The difficulty of hiring Order Pickers can depend on various factors like the location, the competitiveness of the pay, and the work conditions.

As it is an entry-level position, there is usually a high number of potential candidates.

However, finding candidates with the right blend of physical stamina, attention to detail, and reliability can sometimes pose a challenge.

 

Conclusion

And that wraps it up.

Today, we’ve shed some light on what it truly means to be an order picker.

Surprising news?

It’s not just about picking and packing orders.

It’s about being the backbone of the warehouse, making sure every product is in the right place at the right time.

With our handy order picker job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your companion in creating meticulous listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Always remember:

Every order picked is a part of the larger supply chain.

Let’s keep the supply chain moving. Together.

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