12 Material Handler Skills: Definition and Examples

By ResumeCat Editorial Team
Updated June 7, 2023

A material handler is a professional who is responsible for the movement and storage of materials within a company. They may work in a warehouse, manufacturing plant, or distribution center. Material handlers must have strong communication and organizational skills. They must be able to lift heavy objects and operate machinery.

Time management

Time management is the ability to use your time efficiently and effectively. It is important to be able to manage your time because it can help you get more done in a day, avoid procrastination, and reduce stress.

Communication

The ability to communicate effectively is crucial for material handlers, who need to be able to convey information about inventory levels, shipment schedules, and other logistical details. Good communication skills will help ensure that materials are received and shipped in a timely and efficient manner.

Organization

Organization is the ability to keep track of multiple tasks and priorities at the same time. As a material handler, you will need to be able to organize your work in order to ensure that materials are properly stored and accounted for.

Prioritization

The ability to prioritize is a critical skill for material handlers, as they are often responsible for managing large quantities of inventory. This includes knowing which items are needed urgently and which can be set aside for later. Prioritization also helps to ensure that tasks are completed in a timely manner and that deadlines are met.

Multi-tasking

Multi-tasking is the ability to juggle multiple tasks or responsibilities at the same time. This is a key skill for material handlers, as they often have to coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously in order to keep production moving smoothly.

Adaptability

The ability to adapt to new situations and learn new skills quickly is essential for material handlers. With the ever-changing nature of the workplace, they need to be able to adapt to new technologies, processes, and workflows. They also need to be able to quickly learn new skills, such as how to operate new machinery or use new software.

Physical strength

Physical strength is important for material handlers because they often have to lift and move heavy objects.

Stamina

The ability to perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods of time is essential for material handlers. This includes activities such as lifting, carrying, and moving heavy objects. Without stamina, material handlers would quickly become exhausted and unable to perform their duties.

Coordination

The ability to coordinate one's movements in order to perform a task efficiently and effectively. This is important for material handlers because they need to be able to move quickly and efficiently in order to keep up with production demands.

Manual dexterity

Manual dexterity is the ability to use your hands and fingers to manipulate objects skillfully. You need this skill for many tasks related to material handling, such as packing and unpacking boxes, sorting items, and assembling products.

Attention to detail

The ability to pay attention to detail is important for a material handler because they need to be able to identify and pick up the correct items. If they are not paying attention, they could pick up the wrong items or miss items altogether.

Safety awareness

Safety awareness is the ability to identify and recognize potential safety hazards in your work environment. It is important to be aware of potential hazards in order to avoid injuries.

How to improve material handler skills

Most people who work in warehouses are material handlers. A material handler is responsible for loading, unloading, and moving materials within a warehouse. They may also be responsible for keeping the warehouse organized and clean.

There are many ways to improve your skills as a material handler. One way is to get certified. The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies offers a Certified Material Handling Technician program. This program will teach you how to safely and efficiently operate material handling equipment. It will also give you a better understanding of the principles of ergonomics and how they apply to material handling.

Another way to improve your skills as a material handler is to attend training courses offered by your employer or by professional organizations. These courses will teach you how to use different types of material handling equipment and how to perform various tasks safely and efficiently.

You can also improve your skills by reading books or articles about material handling. This will help you learn about the latest advances in material handling technology and methods. You can also find tips on how to improve your own performance as a material handler.

Finally, you can improve your skills by practicing them regularly. If you have access to a warehouse, practice loading and unloading trucks or moving materials around the warehouse. If you do not have access to a warehouse, try practicing these tasks at home using boxes or other objects that approximate the size and weight of materials that you would typically handle at work.

How to highlight material handler skills

As a material handler, you are responsible for the movement of materials and products within a company. In order to highlight your skills as a material handler, you should be able to demonstrate your ability to safely and efficiently move materials and products. You should also be able to show your knowledge of proper storage techniques and your ability to keep track of inventory.

On a resume

When listing your skills as a material handler on your resume, be sure to include both your hard and soft skills. For hard skills, mention your experience operating forklifts or other machinery, as well as your ability to lift heavy objects. For soft skills, highlight your organizational abilities and your ability to communicate effectively with both co-workers and customers. Be sure to give specific examples of how you have utilized these skills in the past to show potential employers what you are capable of.

In a cover letter

In your cover letter, be sure to highlight your skills as a Material Handler. Include your experience working with materials and handling them in a safe and efficient manner. Mention your ability to work quickly and accurately while following all safety protocols. Describe how you are able to maintain a high level of productivity even when working under pressure. Finally, emphasize your commitment to always putting the safety of yourself and those around you first.

During an interview

When you are interviewing for a material handler position, be sure to highlight your skills in organization and coordination. Material handlers are responsible for managing the flow of materials and supplies within a company, so it is important to be able to demonstrate your ability to keep track of inventory and maintain an efficient system. You should also emphasize your safety record and any experience you have working with heavy machinery.