FedEx material handlers play a vital role in the logistics and supply chain industry by ensuring that packages and cargo are safely and efficiently handled, loaded and unloaded from delivery trucks, and moved to their designated storage or shipping area. These hardworking individuals are responsible for ensuring that the right packages reach the right destinations on time.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the responsibilities and duties of a FedEx material handler and the qualifications and skills required for the job. Whether you’re looking to start a career in logistics or are just curious about what goes on behind the scenes at FedEx, this is the article for you.
FedEx Material Handler Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of a FedEx material handler include, but are not limited to:
- Loading and unloading packages and cargo from delivery trucks: This includes safely and efficiently handling packages of various sizes and weights and ensuring that they are properly secured for transport.
- Operating material handling equipment includes forklifts, pallet jacks, and other equipment used to move packages and cargo within the warehouse or shipping facility.
- Scanning and sorting packages: Material handlers are responsible for accurately scanning and sorting packages according to their destination using computer-based tracking systems.
- Storing packages in designated areas: This includes properly stacking and storing packages in the warehouse or shipping facility and ensuring they are easily accessible for loading onto delivery trucks.
- Assisting with loading and unloading cargo from airplanes and shipping containers: This includes properly securing cargo and ensuring it complies with safety regulations.
- Maintaining a clean and organized work environment includes keeping the warehouse or shipping facility clean and free of hazards and ensuring that equipment is properly maintained and stored.
- Adhering to safety guidelines and regulations: Material handlers must follow all safety guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe working environment for themselves and their colleagues.
- Communicating with team members and supervisors: Material handlers must communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to ensure that packages and cargo are properly handled, loaded, and unloaded promptly.
- Flexible: Flexibility to work in different shifts, including weekends and holidays.
- Physical stamina: Ability to lift heavy packages and cargo and to stand for long periods.
FedEx Material Handler Job Requirements
The education, training, experience, certifications, and licenses required for a FedEx material handler vary depending on the specific position and location. However, in general, the following qualifications are typically required:
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for a material handler position at FedEx. Some positions may require additional education, such as an associate’s degree in logistics or a related field.
- Training: FedEx provides on-the-job training for new material handlers. This training covers the proper use of equipment, safety procedures, and company policies and procedures.
- Experience: Prior experience in a similar role, such as warehouse or logistics work, is preferred but not always required. Some positions may also require experience operating material-handling equipment, such as forklifts.
- Certifications and licenses: Some positions may require a forklift certification, which can be obtained through on-the-job training or a third-party training program.
- Other requirements: Material handlers must be able to lift heavy packages and cargo and stand for long periods. They must also be able to work in a fast-paced environment and be able to multitask. Good communication skills are also important as they will be working with team members and supervisors.
It’s worth mentioning that FedEx also looks for safety-conscious, dependable candidates with strong work ethics.
FedEx Material Handler Skills
The skills required for a FedEx material handler include the following:
- Physical stamina and strength: They must be able to lift heavy packages and cargo and stand for long periods.
- Attention to detail: They must be able to scan accurately, sort packages according to their destination, and ensure they are properly loaded and unloaded from delivery trucks.
- Equipment operation: They must safely operate equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks.
- Time management: They must be able to prioritize tasks and work efficiently to ensure that packages and cargo are properly handled and moved in a timely manner.
- Safety awareness: They must be aware of safety guidelines and regulations and be able to identify and report hazards in the warehouse or shipping facility.
- Communication: They must communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to ensure that packages and cargo are properly handled and loaded.
- Adaptability: They must work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changes in workload and procedures.
- Organization: They must be able to keep the warehouse or shipping facility clean and organized and ensure that equipment is properly maintained and stored.
- Ability to work in a team: They often work in a team. They must be able to collaborate with their colleagues to ensure that packages and cargo are properly handled and loaded.
- Flexibility: They should be willing to work different shifts, including weekends and holidays, as the logistics industry operates 24/7.
FedEx Material Handler Salary
The salary for a FedEx material handler can vary depending on a number of factors, such as location, experience, and qualifications. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a material handler at FedEx in the United States is around $14 per hour. Entry-level positions typically start at around $11 – $12 per hour, while more experienced material handlers can earn up to $16 – $17 per hour.
It is worth noting that this salary information is based on self-reported data from current and former employees and is intended to be used as a general guide only. The salary for a FedEx material handler may also vary depending on the location, company benefits, and other factors.
It’s also worth mentioning that FedEx offers a comprehensive employee benefits package that includes health insurance, 401(k) plans, retirement savings plans, paid time off, and other benefits.
FedEx Material Handler Work Environment
The work environment for a FedEx material handler is typically fast-paced and physically demanding. Material handlers typically work in a warehouse or shipping facility, where they are responsible for loading and unloading packages and cargo from delivery trucks. They may also be required to assist with loading and unloading cargo from airplanes and shipping containers.
The work environment is usually busy and noisy, with the constant movement of packages, cargo, and equipment. Material handlers work with tight deadlines and must be able to multitask and prioritize their duties. They must also be able to work well under pressure and be able to adapt to changes in workload and procedures.
Material handlers are expected to follow safety guidelines and regulations and must be aware of warehouse or shipping facility hazards. They also must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by the company.
The work schedule for a material handler at FedEx can be full-time or part-time and may include weekends and holidays, as the logistics industry operates 24/7. Depending on the company’s needs, material handlers may also be required to work in different shifts.
Overall, a FedEx material handler’s work environment can be challenging but rewarding as they play a vital role in ensuring that packages and cargo are safely and efficiently handled, loaded, unloaded, and moved to their designated storage or shipping area.
FedEx Material Handler Trends
The latest trends in the field of material handling at FedEx and in the logistics industry as a whole include:
- Automation and Robotics: FedEx and other logistics companies increasingly use automation and robotics to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs. Material handlers may be trained to work alongside robots and automated equipment to move packages and cargo.
- Use of Data Analytics: FedEx and other logistics companies use data analytics to track better and manage their inventory, optimize routes, and improve efficiency. Material handlers may be expected to use data analytics tools to assist with their work.
- Sustainable Practices: To minimize their environmental impact, FedEx and other logistics companies focus on sustainable practices, such as reducing emissions and energy consumption. Material handlers may be expected to follow sustainable practices when handling packages and cargo.
- Focus on Safety: Safety is always a top priority in the logistics industry, and companies like FedEx are continuously implementing new safety measures and procedures to protect their employees. Material handlers are expected to follow safety guidelines and regulations and report hazards in the warehouse or shipping facility.
- Emphasis on Customer Service: Material handlers may be expected to interact with customers more frequently, providing assistance and support through phone, email, or live chat.
- Remote Work: Companies like FedEx now allow more employees to work from home. This may include material handlers who can work remotely for certain tasks like answering customer inquiries, tracking packages and cargo, etc.
- Advancement of Technology: Advancements in technology like 5G, IoT, and AI are expected to continue to change the logistics industry, and material handlers may be expected to learn and use new technologies in their work.
- Employee Wellness: Companies like FedEx are focusing on employee well-being by providing benefits like health insurance, retirement savings plans, and paid time off. This helps to attract and retain highly skilled material handlers.
How to Become a FedEx Material Handler
To become a FedEx material handler, you can follow these steps:
- Meet the basic qualifications: You will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and be able to lift heavy packages and cargo. Some positions may also require forklift certification.
- Apply for a material handler position: You can visit the FedEx career website to search for open material handler positions in your area and apply online. You will typically be required to submit a resume and cover letter and may be asked to complete an online application or assessment.
- Complete an interview: If your application is selected, you will be invited for an interview. This may be a phone, in-person, or a combination of both.
- Pass a background check and drug test: If you are selected for the position, you must pass a background check and a drug test.
- Complete training: Once you are hired, you will complete on-the-job training, which will cover the proper use of equipment, safety procedures, and company policies and procedures.
- Start working: Once you have completed your training, you will begin your new role as a material handler at FedEx. You will be responsible for loading and unloading packages and cargo, operating material handling equipment, scanning and sorting packages, and assisting with loading and unloading cargo from airplanes and shipping containers.
It is worth noting that the hiring process may vary depending on the location and the specific position. It’s also worth mentioning that FedEx is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages diversity in the workplace.
FedEx Material Handler Advancement Prospects
Advancement prospects for FedEx material handlers can vary depending on the specific location and the company’s policies. However, in general, material handlers with a strong track record of performance and a commitment to learning new skills may have the opportunity to advance to higher-level positions within the company. Some possible career paths for material handlers include:
- Lead Material Handler: Lead material handlers supervise and train other material handlers and ensure that packages and cargo are properly handled, loaded, and unloaded.
- Supervisor: Material handlers who demonstrate strong leadership skills may have the opportunity to advance to a supervisor role, where they will manage a team of material handlers and ensure that packages and cargo are handled efficiently and effectively.
- Operations Manager: Material handlers with experience and strong leadership skills may be promoted to an operations manager role, where they will be responsible for overseeing the entire operations of a warehouse or shipping facility, including staffing, budgeting, and logistics.
- Logistics Coordinator: Material handlers with experience and skills in logistics may be promoted to a logistics coordinator role, where they will be responsible for planning and coordinating the movement of packages and cargo.
- Other roles within the logistics and supply chain industry: Material handlers with strong skills and experience may also explore other roles within the logistics and supply chain industry, like transport coordinator, warehouse manager, or logistics analyst.
It is important to note that advancement opportunities are not guaranteed and may depend on the specific location and company policies. Material handlers who wish to advance their careers should take the initiative to learn new skills, take on additional responsibilities, and communicate their career aspirations to their managers.
FedEx Material Handler Job Description Example
Here is an example job description for a FedEx Material Handler position:
Job Title: FedEx Material Handler
Job Description:
We are seeking a hardworking and reliable Material Handler to join our team at FedEx. The Material Handler will be responsible for loading and unloading packages and cargo from delivery trucks, operating material handling equipment, and scanning and sorting packages. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety.
Key Responsibilities:
- Loading and unloading packages and cargo from delivery trucks
- Operating material handling equipment, such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks
- Scanning and sorting packages according to destination
- Storing packages in designated areas
- Assisting with loading and unloading cargo from airplanes and shipping containers
- Maintaining a clean and organized work environment
- Adhering to safety guidelines and regulations
- Communicating with team members and supervisors
- Flexibility to work in different shifts, including weekends and holidays.
Key Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to lift heavy packages and cargo and to stand for long periods of time
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Strong work ethic and commitment to safety
- Experience operating material handling equipment is preferred
- Good communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Forklift certification is a plus.
This position is a full-time opportunity with competitive pay and benefits. If you are a motivated and dedicated individual looking to start a career in logistics, we encourage you to apply for this opportunity.