Picker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of e-commerce, the role of a picker has become increasingly critical.

As the supply chain industry continues to evolve, the demand for meticulous individuals who can efficiently navigate, organize, and manage warehouse inventories grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a picker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to grasp the fundamentals of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or merely interested in understanding the dynamics of the picker job,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a tailor-made picker job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get straight to it.

Picker Duties and Responsibilities

Pickers play a crucial role in warehouses, distribution centers and production facilities, where they pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping or delivery.

Their primary focus is on speed and accuracy, while maintaining standards of safety and organization.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Picking and packing orders according to specific client requirements
• Using warehouse management systems or handheld devices to keep track of inventory and orders
• Inspecting products for defects and damages, and reporting any issues to management
• Maintaining a clean and organized workspace to ensure safety and efficiency
• Ensuring products are stored correctly and safely, and rearranging stock as needed
• Preparing and processing shipments, including wrapping items securely and labeling accurately
• Assisting in loading and unloading trucks, and verifying the accuracy of incoming and outgoing shipments
• Complying with all safety procedures and regulations within the warehouse environment

 

Picker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent, organized Picker to join our team.

The Picker will be responsible for pulling and preparing orders for shipment, delivering the proper paperwork, packaging, and quantity for each order to the shipping station, and picking orders in a timely manner.

Our ideal candidates are detail-oriented, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are committed to meeting tight deadlines.

Ultimately, the Picker’s duty is to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of all orders to improve customer satisfaction.

 

Responsibilities

• Pick orders according to the picking list and purchase order.
• Ensure items picked are correct, conducting checks on quantity and quality.
• Pack or wrap orders for shipping.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Assist in inventory control activities.
• Communicate any discrepancies to the supervisor.
• Abide by safety regulations at all times.
• Use pallet jack or other tools to transport picked items to the shipping area.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Picker, Packer, or similar role preferred.
• Experience using a handheld scanner and warehouse management system.
• Familiarity with inventory software and order processing systems.
• Physical stamina and strength to lift heavy items.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Detail-oriented with good organizational skills.

 

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Employee discount

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Picker
• Work Environment: This position requires work in a warehouse setting. This role is physically demanding, involving lifting, mobility, and standing for long periods.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Warehouse Supervisor or Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $24,960 minimum to $32,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• 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 to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Picker Do?

Pickers, also known as Warehouse Pickers, are crucial team members in the logistics and supply chain industry.

They are primarily responsible for picking, packing and organizing products or orders in a warehouse setting.

They ensure that the correct quantity and type of product is picked and packaged, based on the order invoice.

Pickers use handheld scanners or similar electronic devices to track inventory and confirm the accuracy of the orders they fulfill.

They often operate machinery such as forklifts to move larger or heavier items.

They also frequently work in collaboration with other warehouse staff like packers and dispatchers to ensure that the picked items are correctly packed, shipped, and delivered on time.

In some cases, Pickers may be involved in performing additional tasks such as loading and unloading shipments, or conducting inventory counts and updates.

Their work is vital for maintaining the efficiency and accuracy of the warehouse operations, directly contributing to customer satisfaction.

 

Picker Qualifications and Skills

A proficient picker should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that align with the demands and requirements of the role, including:

• Outstanding organization skills to manage and prioritize picking orders efficiently and accurately
• Physical stamina and strength to lift heavy items and remain on their feet for extended periods
• Detail-oriented to ensure accurate picking of items as per the orders
• Basic math skills for counting and calculating quantities of items to be picked
• Effective communication skills to cooperate with team members and report any discrepancies or issues
• Ability to operate machinery and equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks
• Familiarity with inventory software or ability to quickly learn new systems
• Problem-solving skills to handle issues that might arise during the picking process
• Time management skills to complete orders in a timely and efficient manner

 

Picker Experience Requirements

Entry-level picker roles typically require little to no experience, as most of the skills required for the job can be learned on the job.

This includes understanding how to effectively use picking tools and equipment, following safety procedures, and understanding how to accurately fulfill orders.

However, some employers may prefer candidates who have some experience in a warehouse setting or in a similar role such as a packer or a loader.

This can often be gained through part-time roles, temporary work, or internships in logistics or supply chain operations.

Candidates with more than 1-2 years of experience as a picker are often more efficient and accurate in their work, as they have had time to develop their skills and familiarity with the job.

They may also have experience with more advanced aspects of the role such as using automated picking systems or dealing with complex orders.

Pickers with more than 3-5 years of experience may have the opportunity to move into supervisory or managerial roles, where they oversee the work of other pickers and coordinate the overall picking operations.

This would require not only significant picking experience but also some leadership experience, and potentially some formal education in logistics or business management.

 

Picker Education and Training Requirements

A Picker, often found in warehouses, factories, and other industrial settings, typically requires a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Training for this role is usually provided on the job and involves learning to use material handling equipment, such as forklifts and pallet jacks, effectively and safely.

Some employers may also require pickers to have prior experience in a warehouse setting, but this is not always necessary.

Knowledge of inventory software can be beneficial but is often learned on the job.

In addition to these formal requirements, a picker must have physical stamina, as the role often involves lifting heavy items and standing for extended periods.

While certification is not required for this role, courses in warehouse operations, logistics, or supply chain management can be advantageous for career advancement.

Continuing education is also useful for staying up-to-date with the latest industry safety standards and operating procedures.

 

Picker Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Picker is $13.61 (USD) per hour.

The actual wage a Picker earns can vary based on experience, location, and the specific company they work for.

 

Picker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Picker need?

Pickers need to be physically fit as the job often involves heavy lifting and being on their feet for extended periods.

They should have good organizational skills to efficiently pick items according to the order list, and detail-oriented to ensure accuracy in order selection.

Good time management skills are also necessary to meet delivery deadlines.

 

Do Pickers need any specific qualifications?

Most Picker positions do not require specific qualifications, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred.

However, previous experience in a warehouse environment can be beneficial.

Some companies may require Pickers to operate machinery, in which case proper certification may be required.

 

What should you look for in a Picker resume?

A Picker’s resume should show evidence of physical stamina, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills.

Previous experience in a similar role or environment can be a big plus.

If the role involves operating machinery, look for relevant certifications.

The candidate should also demonstrate a good understanding of safety procedures in a warehouse environment.

 

What qualities make a good Picker?

A good Picker is highly organized, efficient, and able to work under pressure to meet deadlines.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring that the right products are picked accurately for each order.

A good Picker is also dependable, capable of working independently, and has a strong work ethic.

 

What are the daily duties of a Picker?

A Picker usually starts their day by receiving and reviewing orders to be picked.

They then locate and pick the items in the warehouse, ensuring accuracy and speed.

Once items are picked, they are typically responsible for packing them securely for dispatch.

A Picker may also be involved in inventory checks, maintaining a clean work area, and possibly operating warehouse machinery.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look into the dynamic world of a picker.

Surprised?

It’s not just about moving boxes.

It’s about being a vital cog in the wheel of supply chain management, one pick at a time.

Armed with our definitive picker job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take that leap.

But why halt your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your perfect companion for crafting detailed job listings or refining your resume to an exceptional degree.

Take note:

Every item you pick is a piece of the larger supply chain puzzle.

Let’s streamline that process. Together.

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