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A material mover and hand laborer move products from one location to another. Other types of laborers can include car wash operators, who are needed to accomplish manual labor tasks. The most significant aspect of a material mover and hand laborer job is manual labor. Employers hire these workers to help with manual labor tasks that require an individual to perform. Watch the following video to learn more.
How to Become a Material Mover and Laborer
To become a materials handler, one typically begins by meeting the basic educational requirements, which often include having a high school diploma, although this is not always mandatory. Many positions in this field are open to those who have not yet completed high school, making it an accessible entry point into the workforce. The process of becoming a materials handler primarily involves on-the-job training, where individuals learn the specific skills and protocols related to handling various materials, operating equipment, and adhering to safety standards. This hands-on training is crucial, as it equips workers with practical knowledge and experience directly applicable to their roles.
There are also benefits of being a Material Mover and Laborer. Firstly, the fact that it does not require a college degree can be a significant advantage for those who wish to enter the workforce immediately after high school or for those who are looking for a career change without the commitment of a lengthy and expensive educational path. This aspect makes it an ideal option for individuals seeking to avoid student debt while gaining valuable work experience.
Moreover, the flexibility in educational requirements means that high school students or those with some college education can find part-time positions in this field, making it a viable option for earning income while pursuing education or other interests. For many, it serves as an excellent second job, offering flexible hours and the ability to balance other commitments, whether they be educational or personal.
Job Description of a Material Mover and Laborer
A material mover and laborer can find themselves performing a variety of manual labor tasks depending on the job they have. If they work at a grocery store for example, they would stock shelves. If they are working in a warehouse, they may fill customer orders with stocked products or move large amounts of inventory from one location to another.
Along with performing manual labor, material movers and hand laborers may also need to read order requirements so they accurately complete the requirements of the given task. If working with equipment on-the-job, these laborers would need to inspect and maintain the equipment. Some locations may have hazards in the work environment as well, so following an employers safety procedures is also important.
Working as a materials handler can provide foundational skills and experiences that are transferable to other jobs and industries. Employees develop competencies in logistics, organization, and time management, as well as a strong understanding of operational procedures. These skills can be beneficial in pursuing career advancements within the field or transitioning to other roles that require similar capabilities.
Becoming a materials handler offers a straightforward entry into the workforce with the added benefits of not requiring a college degree, providing opportunities for part-time work, and developing a skill set that is valuable across various industries.
Material Mover Laborer Career Video Transcript
While computers and machines now perform many kinds of work, the ability to accomplish a job using your own hands and strength has a value and reward all its own. Laboring with your hands takes coordination and stamina, but it also takes customer service skills and the ability to follow through on instructions. Several jobs require these qualities. Most hand laborers and freight, stock, and material movers work as pickers in warehouses, retrieving items from storage to be loaded and shipped. They may need to pack and wrap items, or load and unload them from a truck.
Packers and packagers pack groceries for customers, or pack shipping materials for transport. They often label packages and keep records of what they’ve packed. Vehicle and equipment cleaners wash vehicles, storage tanks, and industrial machinery. Most clean cars for an auto dealership, car rental agency, or car wash. Machine feeders work in manufacturing or warehouses. They insert materials into equipment, while off bearers remove materials from equipment after processing. Refuse and recyclable material collectors pick up garbage and recyclables from homes and businesses to transport to a landfill or recycling center. Most work either in waste collection or for local government.
Most hand laborers and material movers work full time, though part-time hours are not uncommon. Warehouse and shipping positions may require overnight shifts. It’s typical for employers to require that workers have the ability to lift a certain weight to qualify for the job, but there are no formal education requirements. Jobs often include repetitive movement and heavy lifting.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Hand Laborers and Material Movers.
National Center for O*NET Development. 53-7062.00. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.
