Warehouse Job Description Guide 2025: Templates & KPIs

Hiring managers need a clear, copy-ready warehouse duties job description that attracts reliable talent, sets measurable expectations, and stays compliant. Use this 2025 guide to post faster, tailor by industry and shift, and add KPIs, pay ranges, and safety certifications that top candidates and auditors expect.

Quick Definition: What a Warehouse Worker Does

A warehouse worker receives, stores, picks, packs, and ships goods while maintaining accurate inventory and a safe, clean work area. They use RF scanners, pallet jacks, forklifts, and a WMS to process orders and documentation. The role balances speed and accuracy, meeting KPIs like units per hour and order accuracy within safety and compliance standards.

Top 15 Warehouse Duties and Responsibilities

If you only have five minutes to draft your posting, start with a definitive duty list. These warehouse responsibilities reflect today’s most common workflows across e‑commerce, 3PL, wholesale, and manufacturing.

Use active, measurable verbs and tune expectations by shift, automation level, and regulatory environment.

• Receive inbound shipments; verify counts against BOLs/packing slips; inspect for damage
• Label, sort, and put away inventory using WMS-directed locations (RF scanning)
• Pick customer orders (voice/RF/AMR-assisted) to meet UPH and accuracy targets
• Pack orders with correct materials, documentation, and hazmat/compliance labels
• Stage and load outbound shipments; complete BOLs; perform trailer seal checks
• Perform cycle counts; reconcile discrepancies; escalate inventory issues
• Replenish forward pick locations; follow FIFO/FEFO as applicable
• Operate material handling equipment (pallet jacks, forklifts) per certification
• Conduct quality checks on inbound/outbound items; report nonconformance
• Maintain warehouse cleanliness (5S), aisles, and safety walkways
• Follow safety procedures: PPE, LOTO, ladder safety, ergonomics, hazard communication
• Use WMS/ERP tools (e.g., SAP EWM, Manhattan, Blue Yonder) to track transactions
• Assist with returns processing (RMA), restocking, or dispositioning
• Support audits, inventory adjustments, and KPI reporting with accurate documentation
• Collaborate with leads and carriers to meet cutoffs and dock-to-stock SLAs

Receiving and Putaway (dock-to-stock, labeling, documentation)

Receiving errors create downstream misses.

Define receiving as tasks directed by the WMS:

• Unloading
• Inspecting
• Counting
• Documenting exceptions
• Putaway

Aim for dock-to-stock within 8–24 hours. Adjust by volume and staffing.

Require labeling and documentation:

• Label at pallet, case, or each level
• Meet ASN/EDI compliance
• Document damages and shortages
• Capture photos when required

Tighten SLAs for e‑commerce, regulated goods, and night shift. Ensure pick waves launch on time.

Order Picking and Packing (UPH, accuracy, packaging standards)

Picking and packing drive your cost per order.

Specify methods and targets:

• Use batch, zone, wave, or voice picking methods
• Set realistic UPH by SKU mix, travel, and automation
• Target 60–150 UPH for each-pick; 40–100 for pack

Lock in quality and packaging controls:

• Maintain accuracy at ≥99.5%
• Scan at pick and pack
• Follow packaging SOPs and dunnage rules
• Reference ISTA standards to reduce damage rates

During peak, increase UPH targets and QA checks while maintaining safety.

Shipping and Carrier Handover (BOLs, staging, seal checks)

End-of-line accuracy protects OTIF scores.

Define staging and verification steps:

• Stage by carrier and service
• Perform scan verification
• Create BOLs
• Complete seal checks
• Capture photos where required

Publish carrier cutoff times. Include trailer loading safety steps:

• Weight limits
• Dock lock use
• Safe loading procedures

By mode:

• LTL/TL: Require weight verification and NMFC documentation
• Parcel: Require manifest reconciliation

Align tasks with your dock schedule and carrier mix to minimize rework and fees.

Inventory Control (cycle counts, discrepancies, RF scanning)

Inventory accuracy prevents stockouts and write-offs.

Define policy elements:

• Cycle count cadence (ABC)
• Recount thresholds
• Escalation for root-cause analysis

Target controls and tools:

• 97–99.8% location accuracy
• RF scanning on all moves
• Controlled WMS adjustments with approvals

Track weekly:

• Shrink
• Lot/serial accuracy
• Negative-on-hand corrections

Increase frequency for high-velocity SKUs and during peak or after process changes.

Copyable Warehouse Job Description Template

Need a post you can paste into your ATS today? Start with this warehouse worker job description template and customize by industry, shift, and equipment. Then layer in KPIs, compliance notes, and pay ranges to meet transparency laws and candidate expectations.

Responsibilities (paste-ready bullets)

• Receive, inspect, count, and document inbound shipments; report damages/shortages
• Label, sort, and put away inventory to assigned locations using RF scanners/WMS
• Pick customer orders to standard work (batch/zone/voice) and accuracy targets
• Pack orders with correct materials, labels, and documentation; verify contents
• Stage and load outbound freight; complete BOLs; perform and record seal checks
• Replenish forward pick locations; maintain FIFO/FEFO and slotting integrity
• Perform daily cycle counts and assist with inventory audits and reconciliations
• Operate pallet jacks, hand trucks, and forklifts (if certified) safely and efficiently
• Keep aisles, docks, and work areas clean and hazard-free (5S)
• Follow safety procedures: PPE, LOTO, equipment inspections, hazard reporting
• Use WMS/ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Manhattan, Blue Yonder) to record transactions
• Support returns processing, QA checks, and nonconforming material handling
• Meet or exceed KPIs (UPH, pick accuracy, dock-to-stock, on-time shipping)
• Communicate with leads, carriers, and team members to meet cutoffs
• Perform other essential warehouse duties as business needs evolve

Requirements and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; prior warehouse or material handler experience preferred
• Basic computer skills; ability to learn WMS/RF scanning (SAP/Manhattan/Blue Yonder a plus)
• Ability to read work orders, BOLs, and safety documentation in English
• Familiarity with pallet jacks; forklift certification or ability to become certified (OSHA 1910.178)
• Knowledge of safe lifting, ergonomics, and basic PPE use; commitment to safety
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy; reliable attendance and teamwork
• Math and measurement skills; ability to use scales, tape measures, and dimensioners
• Willingness to work required schedule (day/night/weekend/OT) and meet productivity goals
• Preferred: voice-picking, AMR/ASRS exposure; hazmat, food safety, or cold storage experience
• Preferred: shipping/receiving duties, carrier systems, and BOL documentation

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Frequently required to stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift/move items up to 50 lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation
• Occasionally push/pull pallets and maneuver carts; use ladders or work at height as trained
• Work in warehouse conditions with seasonal temperature variations; cold storage roles may involve −10°F to 40°F with provided PPE
• Operate around moving equipment and conveyors; follow all safety and LOTO procedures
• Regular exposure to packaging dust and noise within OSHA limits; hearing and eye protection as required

Customize by Industry and Shift

If you hire for night shift, replenishment and audits rise to the top duties. Use this framework to emphasize what matters for your operation and shift coverage. Calibrate UPH, safety rules, and certifications to match product type, temperature, and automation.

E‑commerce/3PL: High-velocity picking, returns processing

Prioritize each-pick speed, pack quality, and carrier cutoffs. Add duties like slotting optimization, cartonization, and peak flex staffing. Include returns triage (restock/refurb/scrap) and marketplace compliance. Raise UPH and accuracy expectations and call out voice-picking or AMRs if used.

Manufacturing/Wholesale: Kitting, line feeding, staging

Emphasize material handling to production lines, kitting/BOM accuracy, and Kanban replenishment. Add duties for staging, backflush transactions, and cycle counts for WIP. Include forklift operator responsibilities and dock scheduling for inbound components.

Cold Storage/Hazmat: PPE, temperature checks, handling rules

Safety and compliance dominate. Require insulated PPE, temperature logging, and time-in-temp limits. For hazmat, add 49 CFR/IATA/IMDG labeling, segregation, and spill response basics. Adjust physical demands and pay premiums; add OSHA HazCom training.

Day vs Night/Seasonal: Staffing levels, replenishment, audit tasks

Day shift emphasizes carrier coordination and customer service. Night shift focuses on replenishment, deep cleaning, cycle counts, and maintenance prep. Seasonal roles should mention surge KPIs, flexible schedules, and cross-training for returns and gift-packaging.

Technology and Tools to Include (WMS, RF, Voice, AMRs/ASRS)

Listing your tech stack sets expectations and attracts candidates who can ramp quickly. Modern tools shorten learning curves and signal investment in safety and efficiency.

Name the systems you use and the workflows they support so applicants can self-qualify.

Tools and platforms to list:

• WMS/ERP: SAP EWM, Manhattan, Blue Yonder, Oracle, NetSuite
• RF/Voice: Zebra/Motorola scanners, Vocollect/VoicePro
• Automation: AMRs (Locus, 6 River), ASRS (AutoStore, Dematic), conveyors, print-and-apply
• Shipping: Carrier portals, TMS, label printers (Zebra), dimensioners and scales
• QA/Inventory: Cycle count apps, barcode/RFID, handheld printers

Safety and Compliance Essentials (OSHA, PIT, LOTO)

A compliant JD reduces incidents and audit risk. Reference key standards and required training so expectations are clear before day one.

For powered industrial trucks, state OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 certification, equipment pre-shifts, and retraining triggers. Include LOTO (1910.147), HazCom (1910.1200), ladder safety, and ergonomics, and tie them to daily behaviors and documented sign-offs.

Add when relevant:

• Food safety (FSMA, GMPs) for food/DC roles
• Hazmat shipping (49 CFR; IATA/IMDG for air/ocean)
• Bloodborne pathogens not typical; focus on chemical handling and battery charging safety
• Incident reporting, near-miss culture, and PPE requirements

Performance Expectations and KPIs

Clear KPIs align duties with outcomes and support fair coaching. State what you measure, how, and targets by department and shift.

Publish ranges for transparency. Use your WMS dashboards for visibility and weekly updates, and track trends for peak season adjustments. Always adjust benchmarks for SKU size, travel distance, automation, and training status.

Pick/Pack Rates, Accuracy, Dock-to-Stock SLA, Inventory Accuracy

Typical benchmark ranges (tune to your operation):

• Picking UPH (each-pick): 60–150; case-pick: 100–250; voice/AMR can increase by 10–30%
• Pack rate: 40–100 orders/hour based on complexity and dunnage requirements
• Pick accuracy: ≥99.5%; pack/ship accuracy: 99.5–99.9%
• Dock-to-stock SLA: 8–24 hours from receipt to putaway
• Inventory accuracy: 97–99.8% location/item accuracy
• On-time shipping: 98–99.5% by carrier cutoff
• Damage/defect rate: ≤0.5% outbound
• Safety: 100% PIT pre-shifts; near-miss reporting weekly; OSHA recordables trending down

Compensation: Pay Ranges, Shift Differentials, Benefits

Pay transparency boosts applicant conversion and compliance. Post a realistic range by region and shift, plus differentials and bonuses.

As of 2025, many US markets show $17–$23/hour base for warehouse associate duties, with higher premiums in coastal metros and specialized environments. Include how ranges are set and what factors move pay within the band.

Guidance to include:

• Regional examples: Midwest/South $16–$19; Northeast $19–$23; West Coast $20–$25+
• Differentials: nights/weekends +$0.75–$2.50/hour; cold storage/hazmat +$0.50–$1.50; forklift +$0.50–$1.00
• Benefits: health/dental/vision, paid time off, 401(k) match, paid training/certifications, referral/attendance bonuses, tuition or CDL/forklift upskilling
• Compliance: follow pay transparency laws (e.g., CA/CO/NY/WA) with range, benefits, and factors affecting pay

Inclusive and Compliant JD Writing

Inclusive, ADA-aware language widens your talent pool and reduces risk. List essential functions separately from nice-to-haves, and avoid unnecessary credentials.

Use “with or without reasonable accommodation” for physical demands and avoid gendered or age-coded words. Add contact details for accommodations and ensure background/drug language is “subject to applicable law.”

Quick checklist:

• State EEO commitment and accommodation contact
• Separate “Essential Functions” vs “Preferred/Additional” duties
• Avoid blanket background/drug statements; add “subject to applicable law” and FCRA/Ban-the-Box compliance
• Use specific, observable behaviors (lift, stand, scan) with frequency (frequently/occasionally)
• Remove biased terms (able-bodied, strong man, recent grad)

Onboarding and Training (30/60/90-Day Plan)

Publishing a training plan signals support and reduces attrition. Tie milestones to safety, accuracy, and independence, and document sign-offs.

Pair new hires with certified trainers and use WMS dashboards to track progress against UPH and quality goals.

• 30 days: Complete safety and PIT (if applicable), learn WMS basics and RF scanning, hit 70–80% of UPH and accuracy targets on core tasks
• 60 days: Cross-train in receiving or packing, pass SOP quizzes, hit 85–95% of KPIs; minimal rework/quality issues
• 90 days: Fully independent across primary area, support cycle counts/audits, meet or exceed KPIs; eligible for forklift/voice/AMR assignments or lead-path coaching

Related Roles and When to Use Them

Choosing the right title clarifies duties and pay. Match the role to the dominant workflow and certification needs to reduce turnover.

Use the titles below to set expectations and align KPIs with daily tasks.

• Warehouse Worker/Warehouse Associate: Generalist; receiving, picking, packing, shipping
• Material Handler: Movement-focused; line feeding, staging, pallet building, replenishment
• Picker/Packer: Order fulfillment; UPH and accuracy emphasis; parcel-heavy operations
• Forklift Operator: Certified PIT operation; case/pallet moves, loading, putaway, replen
• Shipping & Receiving Clerk: Documentation, BOLs, scheduling, carrier coordination
• Inventory Control Specialist: Cycle counts, root cause, adjustments, audits

FAQ: Straight Answers to Common Employer Questions

Get quick, audit-ready answers to common posting questions so you can publish faster and coach consistently.

• Which KPIs belong in a warehouse duties job description and what are realistic benchmarks?
  Include UPH, accuracy, dock-to-stock, on-time ship, inventory accuracy, damage rate, attendance, and safety. See ranges above; calibrate by SKU mix and automation.
• How should duties change for e‑commerce vs manufacturing vs cold storage operations?
  E‑commerce prioritizes pick/pack speed and returns; manufacturing emphasizes kitting/line feeding; cold storage adds PPE, time-in-temp, and hazmat/food safety controls.
• What OSHA and forklift certification details can be included?
  State OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 PIT training/certification, pre-shift inspections, retraining triggers (incidents/new equipment), and operator evaluation every three years.
• How do I write ADA-compliant physical demands?
  Describe tasks and frequencies (frequently/occasionally), add “with or without reasonable accommodation,” and provide an accommodations contact. Separate essential vs marginal functions.
• What WMS and tech skills should be listed for entry-level vs experienced workers?
  Entry-level: RF scanning, basic WMS navigation. Experienced: SAP/Manhattan/Blue Yonder transactions, voice-picking, AMR/ASRS operations, carrier/TMS systems, inventory adjustments.
• How do pay transparency laws affect salary presentation?
  Post a bona fide range, benefits, and factors (experience, shift, certifications). Keep internal documentation of how ranges were set; update postings when ranges change.
• When should I post for a Warehouse Worker vs a Material Handler vs a Picker/Packer?
  Use Warehouse Worker for generalists; Material Handler for movement/staging/line feed; Picker/Packer for high-volume order fulfillment with UPH targets.
• What onboarding milestones belong in the JD?
  Summarize 30/60/90 days (safety/WMS basics → cross-training → full independence and KPIs). It sets expectations and improves retention.
• How do union vs non-union environments change duty language and scheduling?
  Union roles may have strict job classifications, seniority-driven shift bids, and defined OT rules. Avoid “other duties as assigned” language that conflicts with the CBA.
• What benefits and safety practices improve applicant conversion?
  Day-one benefits, predictable schedules, paid training/certifications, referral/attendance bonuses, and visible safety culture (PPE provided, incident transparency) drive conversions.
• Can I require background checks and drug screening, and how should that be phrased?
  Yes, with FCRA-compliant notices and “subject to applicable law.” Respect Ban-the-Box jurisdictions and local cannabis laws; state timing (post-conditional offer).
• What schema should I add to improve visibility?
  Use JobPosting JSON-LD with title, description, baseSalary (min/max), hiringOrganization, jobLocation, employmentType, validThrough, and benefits. Add FAQPage schema for this FAQ.

Downloadable Resources and Schema Tips

If your goal is fast, compliant posting, keep reusable assets at hand. Save the template above as a DOCX/Google Doc and a plain-text version for your ATS.

Maintain variants for e‑commerce, manufacturing, and cold storage with tailored KPIs and certifications to speed approvals and updates.

Implementation tips:

• JobPosting schema (JSON-LD): title, description, hiringOrganization, jobLocation/address, employmentType, workHours/shiftSchedule, baseSalary (structured range), incentives, jobBenefits, qualifications, responsibilities, datePosted, validThrough, directApply
• FAQPage schema: include 5–8 top questions/answers from this page
• UTM-tag your apply links; track conversion by title, pay range, and shift
• Refresh postings quarterly with updated KPIs, pay ranges, and safety credentials to signal freshness in 2025 search results

Use this guide to publish a warehouse duties job description that attracts qualified talent, sets fair expectations, and stands up to safety and legal scrutiny—whether you’re hiring for day shift pickers, night shift replenishment, or cold storage forklift operators.