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Like truck drivers keep freight moving and diesel technicians keep trucks out on the road, warehouse associates play an important part in the transportation industry by loading and unloading trailers with products we consume on a day-to-day basis.
Warehouse associates are an essential part of the transportation and logistics puzzle. Without them, freight wouldn’t arrive at destinations in a timely fashion or in an organized manner.
While warehouse associates play an instrumental part in loading and unloading freight, their responsibilities go far beyond just that.
What does a warehouse associate do?
Because they are responsible for keeping a warehouse operating smoothly, the duties of a warehouse associate are very broad. If you are applying for a warehouse associate role, you can expect the job duties to look something like this:
- Manually load and unload freight from trailers, containers and railcars.
- Inspect and assemble products while performing quality checks.
- Complete all assigned duties in a timely order by using a variety of equipment, including pallet jacks, forklifts, turret trucks, dollies and more.
- Work closely with fellow teammates.
These duties mirror what a Schneider warehouse associate would be responsible for - the one you apply for may have more, fewer or different duties.
What makes a good warehouse associate?
Warehouse associate roles are typically considered entry-level, meaning you need no or very little prior warehouse experience to become one.
Although no prior warehouse experience is necessary, there are still a few qualifications many warehouses require of someone who applies for the role, including:
- Having a high school diploma or GED.
- Being able to lift up to 50lbs.
- Being able to complete paperwork and keep inventory records accurately.
While you don’t need many qualifications to become a warehouse associate, you will most likely be required to demonstrate you have the skills to do well in the role.
When interviewing job applicants for warehouse associate roles, recruiters often find that the candidates who have the most potential to succeed in the warehouse are people who:
- Enjoy working with others.
- Have strong communication skills.
- Are passionate about ensuring accuracy and quality of work.
Benefits of being a warehouse associate
If you feel you meet the qualifications and have the personality to be a successful warehouse associate, then it may be time for you to apply for the role.
Not only is the work fulfilling and crucial to the transportation industry, but there are a ton of advantages of being a warehouse team member, including:
- First, second and third shift opportunities to pick from.
- Fast-paced, on-your-feet type work.
