What is an Order Picker?

Summary

Order Pickers are essential players in warehousing. They are responsible for selecting and preparing items for shipment or reallocation. They have the responsibility in ensuring that orders are accurately picked, packed, and ready for dispatch. With the rise of e-commerce and retail, the demand for skilled order pickers is on the rise, making this a stable and accessible career choice in Australia.

Types of Order Pickers:

Order picking roles can vary based on the type of equipment used and work environment:

Manual Order Pickers: These workers typically pick orders by hand, often using trolleys or pallet jacks. They operate in environments like small warehouses, retail stores, or distribution centres where items are easily accessible.
Voice Pickers: Voice-directed order pickers receive picking instructions through a headset or verbal instruction. Instead of relying on paper lists or handheld devices, the picker listens to verbal commands and responds with voice confirmations.
Slip Pickers: These order pickers use printed pick slips, which identify the items that need to be picked for an order. These slips include information such as item locations, quantities, and basic descriptions.
RF Pickers: These workers are equipped with a Radio Frequency (RF) scanner, which assists them with order picking by identifying inventory locations and order details using item barcodes.
LO Forklift Operators: These order pickers use forklifts designed for order picking. LO operators retrieve items from shelves in large warehouses or distribution centres. This role requires an LO forklift licence.
Automated System Operators: In advanced facilities, order pickers may be required to use automated picking systems, such as robotic arms or conveyor belts, which help in product selection and transportation.

Tasks Required:

Order Pickers are responsible for various tasks, including:

Selecting Items: Pick products from shelves to fulfil customer orders, often using handheld scanners, or picking lists.
Packing and Labelling: Preparing items for shipment by packing them and attaching appropriate labels.
Inventory Checks: Assisting with inventory management by performing stock counts and reporting any missing goods.
Equipment Operation: Using tools such as pallet jacks, trolleys, or LO forklifts to move items within the warehouse.
Adhering to Safety Protocols: Following safety guidelines to prevent injuries and ensure a safe working environment.
Meeting Efficiency Targets: Working efficiently to meet daily or hourly picking targets, often in fast-paced environments.

How to Get a Job in Order Picking in Australia

To secure a job as an Order Picker in Australia, follow these steps:

Gain Relevant Experience: Entry-level roles may require little to no experience, but having prior experience in warehousing or retail can be beneficial.
Develop Key Skills: Focus on developing both hard and soft skills relevant to the role, such as attention to detail, time management, and stamina.
Search for Jobs: Consider reaching out to staffing and employment agencies that specialise in logistics and warehousing roles.
Prepare a Strong Resume: Tailor your resume to the specific role you’re applying for.

Current Employment Stats

The demand for Order Pickers in Australia is steadily growing, driven by the expansion of e-commerce and the need for efficient supply chain management. According to the Jobs and Skills Australia, the number of order pickers is expected to grow steadily. As of 2024, there is an estimated 169,200 storepersons employed across Australia, which includes order pickers in warehousing and wholesale trade positions.

Average Salary and Job Openings

According to SEEK, Order Pickers in Australia can expect to earn an average salary ranging from $55,000 – $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry. The number of job openings is healthy, particularly in urban areas with large distribution centres.

Skills required to become an Order Picker:

Hard Skills:

Equipment Operation: Proficiency in using tools like pallet jacks and handheld scanners.
Inventory Control: Understanding of inventory control practices and the ability to count stock.
Basic IT Skills: Familiarity with inventory software and the ability to operate basic computer programs.

Soft Skills:

Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in picking and packing orders to avoid errors.
Time Management: Efficiently managing time to meet order deadlines.
Physical Stamina: Ability to handle repetitive tasks and lift heavy items over extended periods.
Communication: Ability to communicate with team members and supervisors.

Education:

Order pickers do not require any specific qualifications however, completing a course in logistics, warehousing, or supply chain management can enhance career potential.

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need a forklift licence to be an order picker?
- You only need a licence if you plan to operate an LO forklift. Manual order picking typically doesn’t require a licence.
What are the working conditions like for order pickers?
- Order pickers often work in fast-paced environments, such as warehouses or distribution centres, where they may need to stand, walk, and lift items throughout their shift.
Is there room for advancement in an order picking career?
- Yes, with experience, you can advance to supervisory roles, inventory management, or other logistics positions.
Are there any health risks associated with order picking?
- As with any physically demanding job, there are risks such as strains and injuries, but these can be minimised by following proper safety protocols and using correct lifting techniques.
What shifts do order pickers typically work?
- Order pickers may work various shifts, including early morning, afternoon, or night shifts, depending on the needs of the facility.

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