Warehouse Operative Jobs

Warehouse operatives make sure that stock is stored in the right place and the right amount of stock is ready for collection when it is needed. Warehouse operatives will report to the warehouse manager who is responsible for the efficient running of the warehouse. Operatives will have duties include checking, storing, packing and moving goods.

There are over 400,000 warehouse operative jobs in the UK. Employers include supermarkets and high street shops, mail order companies, distribution companies, manufacturers, government departments, the National Health Service and the Armed Forces.

What are the working conditions and qualifications required for a Warehouse Operative role?

Operatives in a warehouse need to be physically fit and able to work quickly, able to cope with the paperwork and keep records on computer and be honest and reliable. It is essential that warehouse operatives follow health and safety regulations.

The working hours are 37-40 hours a week, often on a shift system with opportunities for overtime. Warehouse operatives will find that they are mainly working in light and airy warehouses. They will be involved in lifting, bending, stretching and carrying.

There are no minimum qualifications but colour vision tests may be given for some roles. Some employers may require qualifications such as A levels/H grades and a growing number of companies are recruiting graduates as management trainees.

Warehouse Operative Salary

The average UK salary for this role is £18,000 and you can expect an entry-level salary of £12,500 rising up to £27,000 through many years of experience gained in warehouses.  Naturally, there are regional variances in salary with and different skill sets will be renumerated accordingly. 

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