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If you’ve Googled “Material Handler job description,” chances are you’ve seen the same thing over and over again.
Bullet points. Industry buzzwords. Vague lists of responsibilities.
But here’s the truth: great material handlers don’t apply just because a job post checks boxes—they apply when it shows them why the role matters, how the team works, and what the day-to-day actually looks like.
If your goal is to attract reliable, hardworking people who take pride in keeping operations running smoothly, you need more than a generic template.
You need a job post that connects with real people—one that’s clear, honest, and purposeful.
That’s what this guide is here to help you do.
Here’s what you’ll find:
✔️ A breakdown of what the material handler role really involves—in plain language
✔️ Two job description templates you can use right away (one for experienced candidates, one for those you’re willing to train)
✔️ Tips to help your job post stand out in a sea of copy-paste listings
✔️ Real-world insights to attract the kind of people who thrive in this role
👉 Haven’t read it yet? Check out our full guide: How to Write a Job Post That Attracts Top Talent.
It walks you through why most job ads fall flat—and how to write one that actually works.
Ready to write a job post that brings in the right candidates? Let’s start with the basics.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard. If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What A Material Handler Actually Does - Their Duties
So, what does a material handler actually do?
In plain terms: A material handler is the person who keeps things moving behind the scenes—literally. They move, organize, and track materials in warehouses, factories, or construction sites. They’re the reason inventory is where it should be, shipments go out on time, and operations don’t grind to a halt.
But it’s not just about moving boxes. A great material handler understands systems. They know how to follow safety procedures, operate forklifts or pallet jacks, communicate clearly with team leads, and stay on top of inventory changes without missing a beat.
In short, they’re reliable, detail-oriented, and physically capable. And when you hire the right one, they’ll save your team hours of delays, reduce errors, and keep everything running smoother.
Think of them as the quiet force behind operational efficiency—out of the spotlight, but mission-critical.
Whether you’re hiring for a high-volume warehouse, a construction logistics team, or a manufacturing plant, you want someone who’s more than just able-bodied—you want someone who’s dependable, proactive, and knows how to stay organized under pressure.
Two Great Material Handler Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: For Experienced Material Handlers
________________________________________
📦 Material Handler Wanted at SwiftCore Logistics (2+ Years Experience)
📍 Location: Dallas, TX | 💼 Full-Time | 💰 $19–$22/hr (Based on Experience)
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri, 8AM–4:30PM
🎥 A Quick Message from Our Warehouse Manager [Insert Loom/YouTube Video Link]
________________________________________
Who We Are
At SwiftCore Logistics, we move fast—and we move smart. We specialize in last-mile delivery and warehouse distribution for some of the biggest retail brands in the U.S. Behind every on-time delivery is a team that knows how to stay organized, stay safe, and stay ahead.
Now, we’re looking for an experienced Material Handler to join our Dallas team and help us keep our inventory moving smoothly and efficiently.
________________________________________
What You’ll Be Doing
● Load and unload materials from trucks and storage areas using forklifts and pallet jacks
● Accurately label, store, and track inventory through our WMS system (we use ShipHero)
● Assist with packing, staging, and preparing shipments for outbound delivery
● Maintain a clean and hazard-free work environment
● Support inventory cycle counts and stock reconciliation
● Collaborate with team leads to ensure smooth daily operations
________________________________________
What We’re Looking For
● 2+ years experience in a warehouse or distribution center
● Certified forklift operator (or willing to get certified)
● Comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs and working on your feet throughout the day
● Strong attention to detail and safety
● Familiar with basic inventory software and barcode scanners
● Reliable, punctual, and a great team player
________________________________________
Perks & Benefits
✅ Health & Dental Insurance (after 60 days)
✅ Paid Time Off (up to 40 hours/year)
✅ Monthly safety bonuses
✅ Overtime opportunities
✅ On-the-job training for equipment and software
✅ Internal promotion paths — we promote from within
________________________________________
How We Hire
We respect your time. After you apply, you’ll complete a short skill evaluation through WorkScreen, which helps us get to know you beyond just a resume.
We’ll follow up within 5 business days. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an on-site interview and warehouse walkthrough. We respond to every applicant.
Ready to move your career forward?
👉 Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen application link]
✅ Option 2: Willing to Train / Entry-Level Material Handler
________________________________________
🌟 Entry-Level Material Handler — We’ll Train You (Join a Supportive, Fast-Moving Team)
📍 Location: Dallas, TX | 💼 Full-Time | 💰 $16–$18/hr
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri, 8AM–4:30PM
🎥 Meet the Team You’ll Be Joining → [Insert Loom or YouTube Video Link]
________________________________________
About Us
At SwiftCore Logistics, we believe great operations start with great people. We’re a warehouse and last-mile logistics company that helps retailers get products into customers’ hands—fast and accurately.
Our Dallas location is a high-volume hub, and we’re proud of the strong team we’ve built—people who look out for each other, communicate clearly, and take pride in their work.
We’re not just here to get the job done. We’re here to build something that runs smoothly, treats people right, and grows together.
Now, we’re hiring entry-level material handlers who want steady work, solid training, and a chance to grow from the ground up.
________________________________________
Why This Job Might Be Right for You
You don’t need warehouse experience to apply. If you’re reliable, hands-on, and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, we’ll teach you the rest.
Our team is looking for someone dependable who wants a steady job, great training, and opportunities to grow.
________________________________________
What You’ll Be Doing
● Moving boxes, pallets, and materials around the warehouse
● Assisting with packing and labeling outgoing shipments
● Learning to use pallet jacks and barcode scanners
● Supporting inventory counts and restocking
● Keeping the warehouse clean, safe, and organized
________________________________________
What We’re Looking For
● A strong work ethic and reliable attendance
● Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly
● Willingness to learn warehouse tools and safety practices
● Team mindset — we work together to get things done
● No warehouse experience needed — just a great attitude
________________________________________
Why You’ll Love Working With Us
✅ We train you from day one
✅ Weekly pay and performance bonuses
✅ Paid breaks and overtime available
✅ Clear path to grow into senior roles (like Team Lead or Forklift Operator)
✅ Supportive team that values communication and effort
________________________________________
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to help us evaluate applicants based on real-world skills and fit — not just past experience. Once you apply, you’ll go through a short evaluation designed to give you a fair shot, even if this is your first warehouse job.
👉 Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen application link]
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Breakdown of Why These Material Handler Posts Work
Let’s look at what makes both job descriptions effective — and why they’re more likely to attract dependable, high-quality candidates.
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven
Instead of just “Material Handler,” we wrote:
- “Material Handler Wanted at SwiftCore Logistics (2+ Years Experience)”
- “Entry-Level Material Handler — We’ll Train You (Join a Supportive, Fast-Moving Team)”
This tells the candidate who the role is for, what level of experience is needed, and what kind of environment they’re joining. Specificity signals relevance — which helps your post stand out in search results and appeals directly to the right people.
✅ 2. The Intros Give Context — Not Corporate Jargon
Each post opens with a short, warm explanation of what the company does and why the role matters.
The experienced role ties into speed, inventory accuracy, and operational flow.
The entry-level role invites candidates who want training, stability, and growth.
This builds purpose into the post. You’re not just filling a vacancy — you’re hiring someone who will make a real impact.
✅ 3. There’s a Human Touch (via Video + Values)
In both posts, we added:
- A short video intro from the team or hiring manager
- An “About Us” section that shows what kind of company culture the candidate is stepping into
These elements help people feel like they’re applying to real people, not a faceless brand. It also boosts trust and motivation to apply.
✅ 4. Transparency Around Pay and Perks
Both templates clearly state:
- Hourly pay range
- Benefits and training opportunities
- Work schedule and location
This removes friction. No guessing. No hidden expectations. And in today’s hiring climate, transparency builds trust — fast.
✅ 5. Clear Responsibilities That Paint a Picture
We didn’t just list generic tasks like “move inventory.”
We showed what the job looks like in action:
- “Assist with packing, staging, and preparing shipments”
- “Support inventory cycle counts and stock reconciliation”
- “Learn to use pallet jacks and barcode scanners”
It helps the candidate visualize themselves in the role and prepares them for real-world expectations.
✅ 6. Respectful, Modern Hiring Process
Instead of saying “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted,” we said:
“We respect your time. After you apply, you’ll complete a short skill evaluation… We respond to every applicant.”
This small shift makes a big difference. It shows you value people’s effort — and creates a smoother, more respectful experience.
✅ 7. Each CTA (Call to Action) Is Thoughtful and Inviting
We didn’t end with “Send your CV to HR.”
We invited people to apply through WorkScreen, explained the evaluation process, and emphasized that it’s fair and skills-based.
This shows you’re not just looking for credentials — you’re looking for the right person, which resonates with candidates who take pride in what they do.
Bad Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
Let’s take a look at what a typical, outdated material handler job post looks like — and why it doesn’t attract strong candidates.
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Material Handler
Company: LogisticsPro Inc.
Location: Houston, TX
Job Type: Full-Time
Deadline: Rolling Applications
Job Summary
We are seeking a material handler to manage the movement of goods and materials in our warehouse. The material handler will be responsible for shipping, receiving, and inventory management tasks.
Key Responsibilities
● Move goods and materials
● Operate equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks
● Maintain inventory records
● Ensure timely and accurate deliveries
● Follow safety procedures
Requirements
● High school diploma
● Ability to lift 50 lbs
● Strong attention to detail
● Forklift certification preferred
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to hr@logisticspro.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
1. The Job Title Is Too Generic
Just “Material Handler.” No context, no mention of experience level, location value, or why the job exists. It’s easily lost in a sea of similar posts.
2. The Summary Is Cold and Vague
There’s no mission, no story, no reason why the role matters. It reads like it was pulled straight from an old job board template.
3. No Salary or Perks Mentioned
Not listing compensation is a red flag for many candidates today. It creates friction, wastes time, and signals a lack of transparency.
4. No Culture, No Team, No People
There’s no mention of what the company stands for, who they’re hiring with, or what kind of team the person would be joining. This makes it hard for the candidate to picture themselves there—or even want to.
5. Responsibilities Are Bare Minimum
“Move goods and materials”? That could be anything. The tasks are vague and lack purpose. There’s no detail to help a candidate evaluate whether they’d actually enjoy or succeed in the job.
6. The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is one of the fastest ways to turn people off. It shows a lack of respect for applicants’ time and effort—and top candidates are the first to opt out.
7. The Call to Action Is Cold
Just an email and a deadline. No explanation of next steps, no preview of the hiring experience, and no effort to connect with the person on the other side of the screen.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Description Stand Out
Once you’ve written a strong, human-centered job description, there are a few smart additions that can give your post an extra edge — especially when candidates are comparing multiple offers.
Tip 1: Add a Security & Privacy Notice
In today’s job market, scam job posts are everywhere. A short security statement can go a long way in building trust and making candidates feel safe when applying.
You can add something like:
Important Notice: We take your privacy and safety seriously. We’ll never ask for bank details, payment, or sensitive personal information during any part of our hiring process.
This simple line reassures candidates that your job post is legitimate.
Tip 2: Mention Flex Days or Time Off
Time off is a major deciding factor for many applicants—even in hourly or warehouse roles. Highlighting that you offer paid time off or flex days helps your post stand out and shows that you care about work-life balance.
Try language like:
Enjoy up to 40 hours of paid time off each year, so you can rest, recharge, or take care of what matters most.
If you offer flex schedules, even better — mention that clearly.
Tip 3: Emphasize Training & Growth Opportunities
Top candidates want to know there’s room to grow. Even if the role is entry-level, pointing out that you offer mentorship, upskilling, or promotions helps you attract motivated, long-term hires.
Example phrasing:
We promote from within. You’ll start as a material handler, but with strong performance and initiative, you can grow into a Forklift Operator, Team Lead, or even Warehouse Supervisor.
Or:
We invest in your success from day one—with paid training, safety certifications, and real opportunities to advance.
Tip 4: Include a Team Video or Loom From the Hiring Manager
A short video from a supervisor or teammate can make your job post feel personal and welcoming. It also gives candidates a sneak peek into the work culture and environment.
You don’t need professional production. A simple Loom or smartphone video that says:
“Hey, I’m John, warehouse manager here at SwiftCore. In this role, you’d be working directly with me and the rest of our warehouse crew. We’ve got a great team, and we’re excited to bring someone new onboard. If you’re dependable, coachable, and want steady work, we’d love to meet you.”
This can dramatically improve candidate engagement.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
Should You Use AI To Write Your Job Description?
We get it—AI makes writing faster. Some ATS platforms even offer one-click job post generators.
But here’s the catch: if you rely on AI to write your job post without any real input or context…
You’ll end up with something that sounds exactly like what every other company is posting.
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI:
Typing “Write a job description for a material handler” into ChatGPT (or any AI tool) will likely give you:
- Generic, forgettable wording
- No cultural context
- No specific mission or values
- No insight into your team or work style
It might technically “check the boxes,” but it won’t help you connect with the right candidates.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI:
AI can be a powerful tool—if you treat it like a writing partner, not a replacement.
Here’s how to use it well:
- Feed it context:
Tell the AI what your company does, who your ideal hire is, and what the work culture feels like. - Give it raw material:
Share your notes, bullet points, or even a rough draft. Let the AI help refine tone, structure, and flow—not create from scratch. - Prompt it with intent:
Use a thoughtful prompt like:“Help me write a job description for our company, SwiftCore Logistics. We’re hiring an entry-level material handler to support warehouse operations in Dallas. Our culture is fast-paced, supportive, and team-driven. We’re looking for someone reliable, eager to learn, and committed to safety. We offer paid training, room for growth, and $16–$18/hr. Here are some rough notes to get you started [paste notes]…”
- Ask it to match a good example:
You can even paste in a high-quality job post and say, “Make something in this tone, structure, and style.”
Bottom Line:
AI can polish, speed up, and clarify your message.
But it can’t replace your insight into the role, your team, or your culture.
Use it as a tool—not a shortcut—and you’ll get better results and better hires.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Template?
✅ Option 1: Culture-First Conversational Template
🚚 Entry-Level Material Handler – We’ll Train You (Join a Great Team)
📍 Location: [Insert City] | 💼 Full-Time | 💰 $[Insert Pay Range]
🕒 Schedule: [Insert Working Days & Hours]
🎥 Meet Your Future Team: [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
About Us
[Your Company Name] is a warehouse and logistics company that takes pride in doing things the right way — with people at the center. We move fast, support each other, and treat our team like partners. If you’re dependable, coachable, and want a place to grow, you’ll feel at home here.
Why This Role Matters
This isn’t just about lifting boxes. Material handlers are the backbone of our operation. You’ll help keep inventory moving, customers happy, and the entire warehouse running smoothly. And we’ll give you the tools, training, and support to succeed.
What You’ll Be Doing
● Move materials and organize inventory
● Assist with shipping, receiving, and labeling
● Operate pallet jacks and learn to use barcode scanners
● Keep the space clean, safe, and efficient
● Communicate with leads and support your team
What We’re Looking For
● Reliable, on-time, and ready to work
● Able to lift up to 50 lbs and stay active throughout the shift
● Eager to learn and open to training
● Team player who takes pride in doing good work
Perks & Benefits
✅ Paid training
✅ Health & dental insurance
✅ Overtime & performance bonuses
✅ Paid time off
✅ Clear growth paths (team lead, forklift operator, etc.)
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to keep things fair and efficient. Just follow the link below to start a short evaluation that helps us get to know you. No resume required — just show us what you can do.
👉 Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: Entry-Level Material Handler
Company: [Company Name]
Location: [City, State]
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $[Insert Range] per hour
Job Brief:
We are looking for an entry-level material handler to join our warehouse team. You will be responsible for moving goods, supporting shipping/receiving, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. No prior experience required — we’ll provide full training.
Key Responsibilities:
- Load and unload trucks
- Move inventory to storage areas or staging zones
- Label, scan, and update inventory records
- Follow safety procedures
- Support cycle counts and inventory accuracy
Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
- Comfortable working on your feet for extended periods
- Punctual and dependable
- Willing to learn warehouse equipment and software
- Positive attitude and team mindset
Benefits:
- Paid training
- PTO and holiday pay
- Health & dental insurance
- Growth opportunities within the company
Apply Here:
To apply, click the link below and complete a short evaluation through WorkScreen. This helps us assess your fit based on skills, not just a resume.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
Once you’ve written a clear, compelling job post — don’t let it go to waste by using a slow or outdated hiring process.
WorkScreen helps you turn great job descriptions into great hires.
Here’s how:
✅ Quickly Identify Your Top Candidates
Instead of guessing who’s qualified based on resumes, WorkScreen automatically evaluates applicants, scores their responses, and ranks them on a performance-based leaderboard.
No more sifting through unqualified resumes.
You’ll instantly see who your top candidates are — based on skill, not just buzzwords.
✅ Send One-Click Skill Tests
With WorkScreen, you can assign simple, role-specific skill tests to applicants with just one click.
This helps you assess real-world ability — like attention to detail, problem-solving, or basic task comprehension — instead of relying solely on previous experience.
✅ Weed Out Low-Effort Applicants
Tired of candidates who click “apply” but ghost later?
WorkScreen filters out low-effort candidates who use AI tools to apply or submit generic answers — so you focus only on applicants who actually care and are ready to work.
Whether you're hiring material handlers, sales reps, or support staff — WorkScreen gives you a smarter, fairer, and faster way to hire. 👉 Start now by creating your job post on WorkScreen.io, generate your application link, and let the platform handle the heavy lifting.
FAQ
In the U.S., the average hourly wage for a material handler typically ranges from $16 to $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry.
Entry-level positions may start around $15/hr, while experienced handlers — especially those with forklift certifications or warehouse management software experience — can earn $21/hr or more.
Offering a transparent and competitive salary range in your job post helps attract serious, qualified candidates early.
While physical ability and task efficiency matter, the best material handlers also bring critical soft skills, including:
- Reliability – They show up on time, every day.
- Attention to detail – They catch labeling errors, inventory mismatches, or safety risks before they become problems.
- Teamwork – They work closely with warehouse staff, leads, and drivers.
- Adaptability – Schedules change, shipments get delayed. You want someone who can roll with it.
- Communication – Clear reporting to supervisors and teammates keeps operations smooth.
Hiring for these traits helps you avoid turnover and build a dependable warehouse team.
Not necessarily.
Many of the best material handlers start with no experience but have the right attitude, work ethic, and willingness to learn.
If you offer proper onboarding and mentorship, hiring for potential can open up a wider and more loyal talent pool — especially in high-turnover industries like logistics or fulfillment.
It depends on the role.
If operating heavy machinery is part of the daily job, then yes — either require certification or offer to cover it during training.
But for entry-level positions focused on packing, stocking, or labeling, forklift certification may be a “nice to have” instead of a must-have.
Make it clear in your job description which skills are required vs. preferred.
- Be responsive. Let applicants know when they can expect to hear back.
- Respect their time. Make the application process simple and streamlined.
- Use tools like WorkScreen. It gives candidates a fair, skills-based evaluation experience — and makes you look more professional and organized.
- Tell them what to expect. Outline next steps and timelines clearly in your job post.
The easier and more respectful your process, the more likely top candidates will stick around.
Yes — especially for hands-on roles like this.
A short Loom or phone-recorded message from a supervisor or team member builds trust and gives candidates a glimpse into your culture.
It doesn’t have to be fancy — just honest.
Even a 30-second “meet the team” clip makes your post feel real, approachable, and worth applying to.
