Warehouse Associate: Job Duties, Skills and Salary 2025

Learn about the role of a Warehouse Associate, key to the logistics chain, focusing on inventory management, order fulfillment, and maintaining efficiency in warehouse operations.

5 min read
Find Jobs Post a Job

What Does a Warehouse Associate do?

A Warehouse Associate is involved in the daily operations within a warehouse that contribute to the efficient handling, storing, and shipping of goods. They perform an array of tasks such as packing, picking, receiving, stocking, and maintaining inventory. Warehouse Associates are crucial in ensuring that orders are processed accurately and that inventory is managed properly to prevent discrepancies.

They may also operate warehouse equipment, such as forklifts and pallet jacks, and are responsible for maintaining a clean and safe working environment.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Warehouse Associates in the Logistics field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

  • Receive and check incoming pick tickets.
  • Locate products using technology like RF scanners.
  • Retrieve orders according to quantity, size etc. ensuring accuracy.
  • Build pallets with orders and position them to loading docks.
  • Wrap orders before loading on trucks.
  • Re-stock inventory manually or with warehouse equipment.
  • Keep records of completed orders.
  • Maintain equipment and report on malfunctions.
  • Adhere to health & safety policies and quality standards.

For Employers

Need qualified Warehouse Associates?

Post your jobs for free on Cityjobs and reach creative specialists worldwide. Hire faster today.

How to Become a Warehouse Associate

Launching a career as a Warehouse Associate requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

  • High school diploma or equivalent; higher education or certification in logistics is a plus.
  • Proven experience as a Warehouse Associate or similar role.
  • Familiarity with the use of hand trucks, pallet jacks, and other necessary warehouse equipment.
  • Ability to read and write English and follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Basic math and recording abilities.
  • Excellent organizational skills.

Requirements & Skills

  • Good physical condition and stamina to lift heavy items and work standing for long hours.
  • Detail-oriented with an aptitude for problem-solving.
  • Team player with good organizational and communication skills.
  • Punctuality and reliability.
  • Safety management and conscientiousness.

Warehouse Associate Salary Guide

Wondering what Warehouse Associates earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

Job Branch Avg. US Salary
Warehouse Associate Logistics 35,000 USD

The average salary for a Warehouse Associate in the U.S. is approximately $35,000 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Warehouse Associates may receive a wide range of benefits.

Warehouse Associate Salary Career Steps


Level Experience Avg. Salary per Year
Veteran20+ years$43,750
Senior11+ years$38,500
Experienced6-10 years$35,000
Mid Level3-5 years$31,500
Entry Level0-2 years$26,250

How much can you earn as a Warehouse Associate?

Explore verified salary insights and compensation trends across different countries.

How to Advance Your Career

Warehouse Associates can advance to roles such as Warehouse Supervisor or Manager, Inventory Control Specialist, or Logistics Coordinator. Opportunities for advancement often depend on the individual's dedication, performance, and additional training or education in logistics and supply chain management. Pursuing certifications in warehouse operations can also facilitate career progression.

Typical Work Environment

Warehouse Associates typically work in large storage facilities, distribution centers, or warehouses that are part of manufacturing plants. The work environment can be physically demanding, requiring standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and operating warehouse machinery. Safety is a priority due to the risks associated with heavy machinery and lifting. Shifts may include evenings, weekends, and holidays to meet the demands of a 24/7 operational schedule.

Content Verification Note

This profile for a Warehouse Associate is compiled using a hybrid approach: Core data is sourced from the BLS and Payscale, synthesized via AI for structure, and manually verified by our editorial team for accuracy.

Post jobs in

Hiring Talent?

Post for free. Reach local talent.

Post Job Now
Insights

Latest Career & Market Intelligence

Expert advice and international market trends to help you navigate the future of work.

How can I work online and get paid?
Career April 12, 2025

How can I work online and get paid?

Discover in our guide how to work online and get paid — no experience needed! Discover legit remote jobs, essential skills, and step-by-step tips to start earning from home today. Avoid scams & find your perfect online gig.

Read Article
Browse All Insights