What Does a Lead Materials Handler Do?
A lead materials handler supervises a team of material handlers, coordinating the movement of goods through warehouse or production facilities while ensuring accuracy, safety, and efficiency.
Lead Materials Handler Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities of a lead materials handler include:
- Lead and coordinate a team of materials handlers in daily operations
- Assign tasks and monitor workflow for receiving, storing, and shipping materials
- Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment
- Verify accuracy of incoming and outgoing shipments
- Train new handlers on procedures, safety protocols, and equipment use
- Maintain inventory accuracy and investigate discrepancies
- Ensure proper storage and handling of hazardous or sensitive materials
- Coordinate with production, purchasing, and logistics teams
- Conduct safety inspections and enforce workplace safety standards
- Prepare reports on team productivity and material movement
Required Skills and Qualifications
To succeed as a lead materials handler, you will need the following skills and qualifications:
- Leadership and team coordination skills
- Proficiency with forklifts and material handling equipment
- Inventory management and warehouse organization
- Safety awareness and OSHA compliance knowledge
- Communication skills for coordinating across departments
- Problem-solving for logistics and workflow challenges
- Physical fitness for active warehouse work
- Basic computer skills for inventory systems
Education and Training
A high school diploma with warehouse experience. Forklift certification is required. Some positions prefer candidates with supervisory experience or coursework in logistics and supply chain management.
Salary and Job Outlook
Average Salary: $38,000 - $52,000 per year
Lead materials handler roles are a stepping stone to warehouse supervisor, logistics coordinator, or operations manager positions in distribution and manufacturing.