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Entry Level Material Handler Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

builders

Material Handler Yard/Warehouse

Hyattsville, MD

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Physically handles materials used to construct components and finished products to ensure movement ... This is an entry level position where incumbent will receive on-the-job training. COMPETENCIES

New

builders

Material Handler Yard/Warehouse

Silver Spring, MD

$17.25 - $21/hr

Physically handles materials used to construct components and finished products to ensure movement ... This is an entry level position where incumbent will receive on-the-job training. COMPETENCIES

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Kitchen Staff

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Always Adhere to Food Handlers Safety guidelines including by not limited to the following: Keep ... Keeps all kitchen areas stocked with dry products and prep materials and restock dry goods ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Kitchen Staff

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

... Food Handlers Safety guidelines including by not limited to the following: Keep all food items ... materials and restock dry goods consistently throughout shift and at end of shift. • Uses FIFO ...

All JobsMaterial Handler JobsEntry Level Material Handler JobsEntry Level Material Handler Jobs in Washington

Entry Level Material Handler information

How do you become an entry level material handler?

To become an entry level material handler, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic physical fitness for lifting and moving materials. Prior experience is not required, but familiarity with warehouse equipment like forklifts and good organizational skills can be beneficial; some employers may provide on-the-job training or require certification in forklift operation.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level material handlers, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level material handlers often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced warehouse environments, managing heavy or awkward loads safely, and learning to operate equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks. To overcome these challenges, new hires should take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions when unsure about procedures, and consistently follow safety guidelines. Building good communication with team members and supervisors can also help address issues quickly and ensure tasks are completed efficiently.

What does an entry level material handler do?

An Entry Level Material Handler is responsible for moving, storing, and managing materials within a warehouse, factory, or distribution center. Their duties often include loading and unloading shipments, organizing inventory, and ensuring that materials are delivered to the correct locations for production or shipping. They may also operate equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks and keep records of materials handled. This role is essential for maintaining an efficient workflow and supporting overall operations in a variety of industries.

Is an entry level material handler an entry level job?

Yes, an entry level material handler is typically considered an entry level job, suitable for individuals with little to no prior experience. It often involves basic tasks such as loading, unloading, and moving materials, and may require familiarity with warehouse tools and safety procedures. These roles usually offer on-the-job training and do not require advanced certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level material handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Material Handler, you need basic math skills, physical stamina, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, forklifts, and pallet jacks is typically required, with some positions needing OSHA forklift certification. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient material movement and inventory accuracy, which are critical for smooth warehouse operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Material Handler jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Material Handler jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Material Handler jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Material Handler job openings:
Entry Level Material Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Handler job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution.

Material Handler Yard/Warehouse

builders

Hyattsville, MD

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

PURPOSE

Under direct supervision handles and maintains the flow of materials and products on the premises according to established guidelines.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Physically handles materials used to construct components and finished products to ensure movement of such items is optimized; lifts, carries, stacks items as needed.
  • Operates motorized and non-motorized material handling equipment, some of which may require specialized training.
  • Responds attentively to training from foreman or more senior handlers in order to increase own knowledge of work processes.
  • Understands and observes all safety procedures and practices in order to prevent injury to self or co-workers; attends periodic safety meetings as required; may recommend changes to improve safety procedures.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).  This is an entry level position where incumbent will receive on-the-job training. 

COMPETENCIES

  • Knowledge of and ability to use motorized and non-motorized material handling equipment
  • Manual dexterity
  • Knowledge of safety procedures while performing materials handling tasks
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Work is performed within a production environment, subject to temperature variations, hazardous chemicals, mechanical parts, increased noise levels and dust. 
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently and on occasion up to 80 pounds. 
  • May be required to perform specific tasks that involve climbing, lifting, pushing or kneeling.

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