Merchandise Handler in Kansas Career Overview
As a Merchandise Handler, you play an essential role in the retail and logistics industries. Your responsibilities encompass a variety of tasks that ensure the seamless flow of products from distribution centers to retail shelves or direct to customers. This role is vital in maintaining inventory levels and facilitating efficient operations within warehouses and stores.
Key aspects of your work include:
Receiving and Inspecting Merchandise: You are responsible for receiving shipments, checking them for accuracy, and ensuring that items meet quality standards before they are processed.
Sorting and Organizing Products: You handle the organization of products within storage areas, making it easier for other staff to access and retrieve items, thus streamlining the supply chain.
Packing and Preparing Orders: In many cases, you’ll pack products for delivery, ensuring that they are secure and properly labeled, which minimizes the risk of damages during transit.
Maintaining Inventory: You regularly track and update inventory counts, which helps prevent stock shortages or excesses and enables timely replenishment.
Collaborating with Team Members: Working closely with other warehouse or store staff is essential. Effective communication helps ensure operational efficiency and addresses any issues that may arise during the handling process.
Your role as a Merchandise Handler is key to the success of retail operations, directly impacting customer satisfaction and the overall effectiveness of the supply chain. By ensuring that merchandise is handled properly, you contribute significantly to the operational success of businesses within Kansas and beyond.
Merchandise Handler Salary in Kansas
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Merchandise Handler in Kansas
To become a Merchandise Handler in Kansas, the following educational qualifications and training are recommended:
High School Diploma or Equivalent: This is the minimum requirement for most entry-level positions in merchandise handling.
College Degree Programs: While a degree is not always required, pursuing relevant educational programs can enhance your prospects. Consider the following degree options:
- Apparel and Accessories Marketing Operations: This program focuses on marketing strategies specific to apparel and accessories, equipping you with knowledge of merchandising techniques.
- Consumer Retail Management: This degree program provides an understanding of retail operations and consumer behavior, offering insights into effective merchandise handling.
- Fashion Merchandising: Aimed at those interested in the fashion industry, this program covers product selection, pricing, and display which are vital for merchandise handling.
- General Merchandising: This program offers a broad understanding of retail merchandising, covering various aspects of product promotion and inventory management.
- Sales and Related Marketing Operations: This coursework emphasizes techniques in sales and marketing, relevant to the functions of a merchandise handler.
- Retailing and Retail Operations: This program teaches the principles of retail management and operations, providing a foundation for effective merchandise handling.
On-the-Job Training: Many employers offer on-the-job training programs that familiarize you with specific processes, policies, and technologies related to merchandise handling.
Taking these educational paths can provide a strong foundation for a career in merchandise handling and may increase your opportunities in this field.
Best Schools to become a Merchandise Handler in Kansas 2024
Fashion Institute of Technology
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
New York University
Texas A & M University-College Station
Kent State University at Kent
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
- Receive, store, and issue merchandise, materials, equipment, and other items from stockroom, warehouse, or storage yard to fill shelves, racks, tables, or customers' orders.
- May operate power equipment to fill orders.
- May mark prices on merchandise and set up sales displays.
Merchandise Handler Required Skills and Competencies in Kansas
Attention to Detail: You must be able to carefully check items for quality and accuracy to ensure that all merchandise is correct and in good condition.
Physical Stamina: The role requires you to lift heavy items and remain on your feet for extended periods. Physical strength and endurance are essential for handling merchandise efficiently throughout your shift.
Time Management: You should be able to prioritize tasks effectively and work efficiently to meet deadlines, ensuring that merchandise is processed and stocked in a timely manner.
Organization: Being well-organized helps you to keep track of inventory, locate items quickly, and maintain a neat workspace, enhancing overall productivity.
Teamwork: Collaborating well with coworkers and communicating effectively is important as you often work alongside others, coordinating efforts for tasks like lifting and moving merchandise.
Problem-Solving Skills: You will encounter challenges such as misplaced items or inventory discrepancies. The ability to think critically and find solutions is valuable in maintaining workflow and efficiency.
Basic Math Skills: You may need to perform basic calculations for inventory management, tracking stock levels, and processing orders, making numerical proficiency important.
Safety Awareness: Understanding safety protocols and best practices for handling, storing, and transporting merchandise helps to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and your colleagues.
Adaptability: Being flexible and able to adjust to changing workloads, priorities, and tasks allows you to thrive in dynamic retail or warehouse environments.
Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with inventory management systems and other software can aid in the accurate tracking and reporting of merchandise and stock levels.
Job Duties for Merchandise Handlers
Answer customers' questions about merchandise and advise customers on merchandise selection.
Complete order receipts.
Issue or distribute materials, products, parts, and supplies to customers or coworkers, based on information from incoming requisitions.
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Oracle JD Edwards EnterpriseOne
- SAP software
Inventory management software
- Inventory tracking software
- Ordering software
Word processing software
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Word
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Reading work related information
Social
- Looking for ways to help people
Job Market and Opportunities for Merchandise Handler in Kansas
The job market for Merchandise Handlers in Kansas is currently robust, reflecting a significant demand for workers in this sector. Here are key points regarding the demand, growth potential, and geographical hotspots:
Demand: The rise of e-commerce and retail operations has led to an increased need for Merchandise Handlers. Warehouses and distribution centers are constantly seeking staff to manage inventory, handle products, and ensure efficient operation.
Growth Potential: The role of Merchandise Handler is expected to grow as more companies expand their logistics and supply chain functions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that positions in warehousing and material handling are projected to increase in the coming years, attributed to the continued growth of online shopping and an emphasis on quick delivery.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Kansas City: Being the largest metropolitan area in Kansas, it houses numerous warehouses and distribution centers, making it a prime location for job opportunities in merchandise handling.
- Wichita: As one of the significant urban areas in the state, Wichita has a diverse industrial base including manufacturing and retail, providing ample opportunities for Merchandise Handlers.
- Topeka: As the state capital, Topeka has several logistics companies and warehouses that consistently recruit Merchandise Handlers.
- Lawrence: Home to a growing retail sector, Lawrence offers opportunities, particularly in smaller logistics firms and e-commerce related businesses.
Industry Trends: Technology is playing an increasingly important role in merchandise handling, with automation and inventory management systems becoming commonplace. This shift is contributing to a need for workers who are adaptable and can operate alongside new technologies.
Seasonal Employment: There are times of the year, particularly around holidays, when demand for Merchandise Handlers peaks. Retail businesses may offer temporary positions that could lead to more permanent employment, making it an ideal opportunity for those seeking short-term work or entry into the field.
The landscape for Merchandise Handlers in Kansas offers numerous opportunities for both newcomers and experienced workers. Understanding these dynamics can help you position yourself effectively in the job market.
Top Related Careers to Merchandise Handler 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Merchandise Handler in Kansas
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Gain insights into workplace safety regulations that may apply to your role.
OSHA WebsiteBureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Access comprehensive data on job outlook, salary information, and employment statistics relevant to merchandise handlers.
BLS Website - Merchandise HandlersKansas Department of Commerce
Explore resources specific to Kansas, including job openings and workforce development initiatives.
Kansas CommerceAmerican Logistics Association (ALA)
Discover resources related to logistics and supply chain management that may benefit your career as a merchandise handler.
ALA WebsiteNational Warehousing and Logistics Association (NWLA)
Find information on best practices, networking opportunities, and industry trends relevant to warehousing and logistics.
NWLA WebsiteNational Safety Council (NSC)
Access information on safety training and certifications that can enhance your qualifications as a merchandise handler.
NSC WebsiteTraining and Certifications
- Material Handling Institute (MHI)
Offers training programs and resources on best practices in material handling.
MHI Website - National Forklift Foundation
Provides training and certification resources for forklift operation, which is often a key aspect of handling merchandise.
National Forklift Foundation
- Material Handling Institute (MHI)
Trade Publications
Consider reading publications like "Logistics Management" and "Material Handling & Logistics" for insights into industry trends and best practices.Online Learning Platforms
Utilize these resources to enhance your knowledge, skills, and network as you progress in your career as a Merchandise Handler in Kansas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Merchandise Handler in Kansas
What does a Merchandise Handler do?
A Merchandise Handler is responsible for receiving, processing, and organizing products for distribution in retail and warehouse settings. This includes loading and unloading merchandise, maintaining inventory records, and ensuring that products are stored safely and efficiently.What skills are important for a Merchandise Handler?
Essential skills include physical stamina, attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to operate equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks. Good communication skills are also important for collaborating with team members and following instructions.What are the typical working hours for a Merchandise Handler?
Working hours can vary widely depending on the employer. Many Merchandise Handlers work full-time shifts, which may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Part-time positions are also common.Are there any educational requirements for becoming a Merchandise Handler?
Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient. However, some employers may prefer candidates with specific training or certifications related to warehouse operations or inventory management.Is there room for advancement in this career?
Yes, there is often room for advancement. Experience as a Merchandise Handler can lead to positions such as Warehouse Supervisor, Inventory Control Specialist, or Logistics Coordinator, depending on your skills and interests.What is the typical salary range for a Merchandise Handler in Kansas?
Salaries for Merchandise Handlers in Kansas can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. As of October 2023, the average salary typically ranges from $28,000 to $36,000 per year.What are some common employers of Merchandise Handlers in Kansas?
Common employers include retail stores, warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing companies. Many national chains and local businesses hire Merchandise Handlers to support their inventory and storage needs.Are there opportunities for overtime in this role?
Yes, many Merchandise Handlers have opportunities to work overtime, especially during busy times such as holidays or sales events. Overtime pay is typically higher, which can enhance overall earnings.What safety precautions should a Merchandise Handler take?
Safety precautions include using personal protective equipment (PPE), following proper lifting techniques, and being aware of your surroundings while operating machinery. Training on safety protocols is often provided by employers.How can I find job openings for Merchandise Handlers in Kansas?
You can find job openings through various online job boards, company websites, and local classifieds. Networking within the industry and attending job fairs can also be effective in discovering job opportunities.