Are you thinking about becoming a material handler? If so, before you decide to jump in, it is important that you learn all the responsibilities that you will have as a construction material handler. You may think that the most important task that you will have as a material handler will be to move and handle material while it is in storage, but that is not the case. As a material handler, your most important responsibility will be to keep track of all the incoming and outgoing products and maintain their records accurately. You can use technology and software for this task so that you are always aware of all company purchases and have proper records.
Primary Duties of a Material Handler
If you are a construction material handler, your primary duties will include moving, handling, and storing different construction materials in a storage space. You will also be responsible for separating hazardous materials from non-hazardous ones so there are not any accidents on site. Your job duties will include documenting the inventory status, loading and unloading all items marked for transport, and ensuring that all the deliveries made are accurate. If you are working for a big company, you may have to supervise a team and direct other employees on how to carry out the assigned tasks.
Tracking and Labeling
You will have to track and verify the quality and quantity of any incoming materials or goods. You will have to verify that the products have the correct labeling, and you will also be responsible for attaching new labels to them. You will need to locate and move materials scheduled for delivery and maintain accurate records of inventory. If there are any returns, you will need to process and document them along with any necessary communications.
You will also be responsible for keeping all the equipment required for material handling in proper working condition and ensure its timely maintenance. It will be your responsibility to make the staff aware of any purchase requirements. If there are some materials that are low in stock, you need to maintain accurate records of them.
Incorrect Deliveries and Missing items
In case of any incorrect deliveries, you will need to follow the appropriate replacement procedure. If there are some items that go missing, you will have to work with external departments and senior management to locate them. Coordination and cooperation are key in this situation.
These are all the duties and responsibilities that you will have as a material handler. If you think that you can carry out these tasks, then it just may be the job for you. You should keep in mind, however, that this job requires physical fitness as you will have to spend several hours standing and will probably need to lift at least 50 pounds without the help of any construction equipment. Employers look for physical fitness in candidates along with the capability of proficiently operating tools and heavy machinery. Make sure that you are comfortable using pallet jacks and forklifts.