Top 12 Material Handler Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the competitive field of material handling, having a well-crafted resume that highlights your key skills is crucial for standing out to potential employers. This article aims to guide you through the top 12 skills that are essential for material handlers, ensuring your resume showcases your abilities effectively and increases your chances of landing your desired job.

Material Handler Skills

1. Forklift Operation
2. Inventory Management
3. Pallet Jack
4. RF Scanners
5. Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
6. Order Picking
7. Shipping & Receiving
8. Hazardous Materials Handling
9. Quality Control
10. Supply Chain Management
11. Packaging Machinery
12. Lean Manufacturing

1. Forklift Operation

Forklift operation, in the context of a Material Handler, involves safely maneuvering and operating a forklift to load, unload, transport, and stack materials within warehouses, manufacturing plants, or construction sites.

Why It's Important

Forklift operation is crucial for a Material Handler as it enables efficient, safe, and timely movement of goods within warehouses and storage facilities, significantly enhancing productivity and reducing manual labor and injury risks.

How to Improve Forklift Operation Skills

To improve forklift operation, focus on the following key areas:

1. Training: Ensure all operators complete comprehensive forklift training programs that cover safety, handling, and maintenance.
2. Maintenance: Regularly maintain equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure efficient operation.
3. Safety Protocols: Implement strict safety protocols including speed limits, load capacities, and pedestrian awareness.
4. Efficiency Practices: Adopt lean management practices to streamline operations, reduce waste, and improve handling times.
5. Technology Integration: Utilize technology solutions like telematics for real-time monitoring and management of forklift operations.

By focusing on these areas, you can enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity in forklift operations.

How to Display Forklift Operation Skills on Your Resume

2. Inventory Management

Inventory Management, for a Material Handler, involves overseeing, organizing, and controlling the storage and movement of materials within a warehouse or storage facility to ensure availability and efficient use of inventory.

Why It's Important

Inventory management is crucial for a Material Handler as it ensures the right materials are available when needed, reduces waste, optimizes storage space, and supports smooth production and distribution processes.

How to Improve Inventory Management Skills

Improving inventory management, especially from a Material Handler's perspective, involves a few targeted strategies focused on accuracy, efficiency, and adaptability. Here are concise steps:

1. Implement a Real-Time Tracking System: Utilize barcode or RFID technology for instant updates on inventory levels and movements.

2. Regular Audits: Conduct regular physical counts to verify system records against actual inventory, identifying discrepancies early.

3. Adopt Lean Inventory Practices: Streamline inventory to maintain what's necessary, reducing waste and storage costs. Learn more about lean inventory management.

4. Enhance Forecasting with Software: Use inventory management software that offers predictive analytics for better demand planning.

5. Improve Supplier Relationships: Work closely with suppliers for more flexible and reliable restocking options. This includes negotiating better terms and understanding their capacity and limitations.

6. Continuous Improvement and Training: Regularly train staff on new technologies and protocols while encouraging feedback for continuous process improvement.

By focusing on these strategies, Material Handlers can significantly contribute to more efficient, accurate, and adaptable inventory management systems.

How to Display Inventory Management Skills on Your Resume

3. Pallet Jack

A pallet jack, also known as a pallet truck, is a manual or powered tool used by material handlers to lift and move pallets within a warehouse or storage facility.

Why It's Important

A pallet jack is crucial for a Material Handler as it enables the efficient and safe movement of heavy loads and pallets within a warehouse or distribution center, significantly enhancing productivity and reducing the risk of injury.

How to Improve Pallet Jack Skills

Improving a pallet jack for a Material Handler involves enhancing safety, efficiency, and ergonomics. Here are concise tips with relevant resources:

1. Upgrade to Ergonomic Handles: Install ergonomic handles for better grip and reduced strain. Ergonomics in Material Handling.

2. Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine checks and maintenance to keep the pallet jack in optimal condition. Preventive Maintenance Guidelines.

3. Use of Wheel Chocks: Implement wheel chocks to prevent unintended rolling. Safety Practices.

4. Training for Operators: Ensure operators undergo proper training for safe and efficient use. Operator Training.

5. Invest in a High-Quality Pallet Jack: Consider upgrading to a model with better load capacity and maneuverability. Choosing the Right Pallet Jack.

By focusing on these areas, you can significantly improve the functionality and safety of a pallet jack for Material Handlers.

How to Display Pallet Jack Skills on Your Resume

4. RF Scanners

RF scanners are handheld or wearable devices used by material handlers to track and manage inventory by scanning barcodes or RFID tags, improving accuracy and efficiency in warehouse operations.

Why It's Important

RF scanners are important for Material Handlers because they streamline inventory tracking, enhance accuracy in order picking, and expedite the shipping and receiving process, ultimately improving efficiency and productivity in material handling operations.

How to Improve RF Scanners Skills

To improve RF scanners for material handlers, focus on enhancing usability, efficiency, and accuracy through the following methods:

1. Ergonomic Design: Choose or upgrade to models with ergonomic designs to reduce user fatigue and increase comfort during prolonged use. Ergonomics in the Workplace.

2. Software Integration: Ensure the RF scanner software is fully integrated with your inventory management system for real-time tracking and updates. Inventory Management Integration.

3. Training Programs: Implement comprehensive training programs for material handlers on the optimal use of RF scanners, including troubleshooting common issues. Effective Training Strategies.

4. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance and updates for the scanners to prevent malfunctions and prolong their lifespan. Maintenance Best Practices.

5. Battery Life Enhancement: Opt for scanners with long battery life or invest in high-quality rechargeable batteries and charging stations to minimize downtime. Battery Care and Maintenance.

6. Barcode Optimization: Ensure labels and barcodes are optimized for quick and accurate scanning, such as using high-contrast labels and verifying barcode quality. Barcode Best Practices.

By focusing on these areas, material handlers can significantly improve the efficiency and reliability of RF scanners in their operations.

How to Display RF Scanners Skills on Your Resume

5. Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) are software platforms designed to optimize and manage the operations within a warehouse, from inventory tracking and receiving goods to picking, packing, and shipping products. For a Material Handler, WMS provides tools and information to efficiently locate items, manage stock levels, and handle materials, ensuring accurate and timely fulfillment of orders.

Why It's Important

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) are crucial for Material Handlers as they streamline inventory tracking, enhance accuracy in order fulfillment, and optimize storage space, leading to improved efficiency and productivity in warehouse operations.

How to Improve Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) Skills

Improving Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) involves several key strategies that can enhance efficiency, accuracy, and productivity for material handlers. Here are concise steps with relevant resources:

1. Integration and Automation: Seamlessly integrate WMS with other systems (ERP, CRM) and automate repetitive tasks to reduce errors and save time. Zebra Technologies offers insights on automation in warehouse management.

2. Real-time Data and Analytics: Utilize WMS features that provide real-time inventory tracking and analytics to make informed decisions. SAP Extended Warehouse Management is an example of a solution providing comprehensive visibility.

3. User Training and Support: Continuously train material handlers on WMS functionalities and updates to ensure they can use the system efficiently. ProMat offers educational sessions and resources for warehouse professionals.

4. Mobile and Wearable Technologies: Adopt mobile and wearable devices that integrate with your WMS to streamline operations and improve mobility. Honeywell Intelligrated discusses the impact of mobile solutions on warehouse efficiency.

5. Customization and Scalability: Ensure your WMS can be customized to fit your specific needs and is scalable to accommodate growth. Manhattan Associates provides scalable WMS solutions tailored to various industries.

6. Continuous Improvement and Feedback: Regularly review system performance and gather feedback from material handlers to identify areas for improvement.

Implementing these strategies can significantly improve the effectiveness of a Warehouse Management System, ultimately leading to smoother operations and enhanced productivity for material handlers.

How to Display Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) Skills on Your Resume

6. Order Picking

Order picking involves the process of selecting and gathering items in a specified quantity from a warehouse as outlined in a customer's order, a critical task typically performed by a Material Handler.

Why It's Important

Order picking is crucial for a Material Handler as it directly impacts the accuracy, efficiency, and speed of fulfilling customer orders, ensuring the right products are delivered on time, which enhances customer satisfaction and operational productivity.

How to Improve Order Picking Skills

To improve order picking, a Material Handler can adopt the following concise strategies:

1. Optimize Layout: Arrange the warehouse to minimize travel time. Place high-demand items near the picking area. Warehouse Layout Optimization.

2. Implement Batch Picking: Group similar orders to reduce trips. Batch Picking Benefits.

3. Use Technology: Implement barcode scanners, RFIDs, or voice-directed picking systems for accuracy and speed. Technology in Order Picking.

4. Continuous Training: Regularly train staff on new methods and technologies. Importance of Training.

5. Measure and Analyze: Continuously measure performance and analyze data to identify improvement areas. Performance Measurement.

By implementing these strategies, a Material Handler can significantly enhance order picking efficiency and accuracy.

How to Display Order Picking Skills on Your Resume

7. Shipping & Receiving

Shipping and Receiving, in the context of a Material Handler, involves the processes of preparing, loading, and dispatching goods for shipment to their destinations (Shipping), as well as accepting, inspecting, and storing goods received from suppliers or other sources (Receiving).

Why It's Important

Shipping and Receiving is crucial for a Material Handler as it ensures the accurate and timely movement of goods in and out of a facility, directly impacting inventory management, order fulfillment, and customer satisfaction.

How to Improve Shipping & Receiving Skills

Improving Shipping & Receiving for a Material Handler involves enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and safety in the handling of materials. Here are concise strategies:

1. Implement an Automated Inventory System: Use technology to track inventory in real-time, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Shopify's guide offers insights into selecting an inventory system.

2. Standardize Processes: Develop and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all shipping and receiving activities. This includes proper labeling, storage, and handling techniques. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a basic structure for creating SOPs.

3. Regular Training: Ensure staff are regularly trained on new technologies, safety protocols, and best practices in material handling. OSHA provides resources and guidelines for workplace safety training.

4. Quality Control Checks: Implement systematic quality control checks at different stages of the shipping and receiving process to catch errors early. ASQ offers resources on quality control basics.

5. Optimize Warehouse Layout: Design the warehouse to streamline the flow of goods, minimizing handling and reducing transit times. The Warehouse Education and Research Council (WERC) provides resources on warehouse optimization.

6. Use Material Handling Equipment: Equip material handlers with the right tools and equipment to improve efficiency and reduce physical strain. Material Handling Institute (MHI) offers insights into the latest in material handling equipment and technologies.

7. Foster Communication: Encourage open communication between departments and external partners to anticipate and resolve issues promptly. Project Management Institute offers strategies for improving communication in project management, applicable to shipping and receiving operations.

Implementing these strategies can significantly improve the efficiency, accuracy, and safety of your shipping and receiving operations.

How to Display Shipping & Receiving Skills on Your Resume

8. Hazardous Materials Handling

Hazardous Materials Handling, in the context of a Material Handler, involves the safe and compliant management, transportation, and storage of substances that pose risks to health, safety, or the environment, according to regulatory standards.

Why It's Important

Hazardous materials handling is crucial for a Material Handler to ensure safety, prevent accidents, and minimize exposure to harmful substances, thereby protecting individuals, the environment, and property from potential damage or contamination.

How to Improve Hazardous Materials Handling Skills

Improving Hazardous Materials Handling involves a multi-faceted approach focusing on safety, training, and compliance. Here are concise strategies for a Material Handler:

1. Receive Proper Training: Ensure you undergo comprehensive training specific to the hazardous materials you'll be handling. OSHA provides guidelines and courses for handling dangerous substances safely.

2. Use Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear the correct PPE, such as gloves, goggles, and respirators, based on the materials you're handling to minimize exposure risks.

3. Follow Handling and Storage Protocols: Adhere strictly to established procedures for safe handling, storage, and disposal. Refer to the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards for specific substance information.

4. Maintain Cleanliness and Order: Keep the work area clean and well-organized to reduce the risk of accidents. Implement a 5S System (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) to maintain an efficient and safe workspace.

5. Emergency Preparedness: Be familiar with emergency procedures and the location of safety equipment like eyewash stations and showers. Regularly participate in emergency drills and training.

6. Label and Document Properly: Ensure all hazardous materials are correctly labeled and that Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are accessible. Follow the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for classification and labeling.

7. Report and Communicate: Promptly report any incidents or potential hazards to management. Effective communication with your team members is crucial for maintaining a safe environment.

By focusing on these key areas, Material Handlers can significantly improve their handling of hazardous materials, ensuring safety and compliance in the workplace.

How to Display Hazardous Materials Handling Skills on Your Resume

9. Quality Control

Quality Control (QC) for a Material Handler involves ensuring materials and products meet specified standards and requirements through inspection, testing, and verification before they are used or shipped.

Why It's Important

Quality Control is crucial for a Material Handler to ensure that the materials meet the required standards, reducing waste, preventing errors, and guaranteeing customer satisfaction by delivering products that are safe, reliable, and up to specifications.

How to Improve Quality Control Skills

To improve Quality Control as a Material Handler, focus on the following key steps:

1. Training: Ensure you are well-trained in handling materials safely and efficiently. Regularly update your skills as per the latest industry standards (OSHA Training).

2. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Adhere to well-defined SOPs for material handling. This minimizes errors and ensures consistency in quality (ISO Guidelines).

3. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of materials for any damages or discrepancies. This early detection helps in maintaining quality (Quality Control Inspections).

4. Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that all handling equipment is regularly checked and maintained. Properly functioning equipment is crucial for maintaining quality standards (Preventive Maintenance).

5. Feedback Loop: Establish a strong feedback loop with your team and supervisors. This helps in quickly addressing any quality issues that arise (Feedback Strategies).

By focusing on these areas, Material Handlers can significantly contribute to improving Quality Control within their operations.

How to Display Quality Control Skills on Your Resume

10. Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Management (SCM) is the coordination and oversight of materials, information, and finances as they move from supplier to manufacturer to wholesaler to retailer to consumer. For a Material Handler, SCM involves the efficient handling, movement, and storage of materials at different stages of the supply chain to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods.

Why It's Important

Supply chain management is crucial for a Material Handler as it ensures the efficient and timely movement of materials, optimizes inventory levels, reduces costs, and improves customer satisfaction by delivering products on time. This enhances overall operational efficiency and competitiveness.

How to Improve Supply Chain Management Skills

Improving Supply Chain Management, especially from a Material Handler's perspective, involves enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and communication at every step of the supply chain. Here are concise strategies:

1. Implement Technology: Use technology like RFID and IoT for real-time tracking and inventory management. This improves accuracy and reduces manual errors. More on RFID

2. Continuous Training: Ensure material handlers are continuously trained on new technologies and best practices. This increases efficiency and safety. Training Resources

3. Lean Inventory: Adopt lean inventory techniques to minimize waste and optimize stock levels, ensuring materials are available when needed without excessive inventory. Lean Inventory Explained

4. Supplier Relationships: Build strong relationships with suppliers to ensure reliable, timely deliveries and to facilitate better communication and collaboration. Improving Supplier Relationships

5. Performance Metrics: Use KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to track and improve the performance of material handling and overall supply chain efficiency. Key SCM Metrics

By focusing on these areas, Material Handlers can significantly contribute to the optimization of Supply Chain Management.

How to Display Supply Chain Management Skills on Your Resume

11. Packaging Machinery

Packaging machinery refers to equipment used in the process of enclosing or protecting products for distribution, storage, sale, and use. For a Material Handler, it involves the operation, loading, and maintenance of machines that package goods into containers, wraps, or other packaging materials.

Why It's Important

Packaging machinery is essential for a Material Handler as it ensures products are efficiently, consistently, and safely packaged for storage and transportation, optimizing workflow and minimizing manual labor and material waste.

How to Improve Packaging Machinery Skills

Improving packaging machinery involves enhancing efficiency, safety, and adaptability to various packaging materials and sizes. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Automation Upgrade: Incorporating advanced automation technologies can streamline operations, reduce manual errors, and improve speed.

2. Regular Maintenance: Implement a preventive maintenance schedule to minimize downtime and extend machinery life.

3. Employee Training: Ensure operators are well-trained in machinery use, safety protocols, and troubleshooting for better handling and efficiency.

4. Ergonomic Design: Adopt machinery with ergonomic features to reduce strain on material handlers, leading to improved productivity and safety.

5. Versatility and Adaptability: Opt for machinery that can easily adjust to different packaging sizes and materials. This flexibility can be achieved through modular designs or by installing adjustable components.

6. Sustainable Practices: Incorporate eco-friendly packaging solutions to not only meet consumer demand but also reduce waste and operational costs.

By focusing on these areas, you can significantly improve the efficiency and reliability of your packaging machinery, leading to better productivity and reduced costs.

How to Display Packaging Machinery Skills on Your Resume

12. Lean Manufacturing

Lean Manufacturing is a systematic approach to minimizing waste within manufacturing systems while maximizing productivity. For a Material Handler, it means efficiently managing materials to ensure the right quantities are delivered to the right place at the right time, reducing excess inventory, motion, and waiting times in the production process.

Why It's Important

Lean Manufacturing is important because it aims to minimize waste and optimize efficiency in the production process. For a Material Handler, it ensures smoother workflow, reduces unnecessary handling and movement of materials, and improves overall productivity and safety in the workplace.

How to Improve Lean Manufacturing Skills

Improving Lean Manufacturing, particularly from a Material Handler's perspective, involves enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring seamless material flow. Here are concise strategies:

1. Optimize Material Flow: Implement 5S methodology to organize the workspace, making it efficient for material handlers to locate and transport materials.
2. Implement JIT Delivery: Adopt Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery to minimize inventory levels and reduce holding costs, ensuring materials are received only as needed.
3. Use Kanban Systems: Integrate Kanban systems to visualize material needs and workflows, facilitating timely replenishment of materials.
4. Cross-Train Workers: Promote flexibility and efficiency by cross-training material handlers, enabling them to perform multiple tasks proficiently.
5. Employ Lean Tools: Utilize lean tools like Value Stream Mapping to identify and eliminate waste in the material handling process, streamlining operations.

By focusing on these strategies, Material Handlers can significantly contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of Lean Manufacturing systems.

How to Display Lean Manufacturing Skills on Your Resume