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Entry Level Material Handler Jobs in Gurnee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Waukegan, IL

$18 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Material Handler The Material Handler plays a key role in packing, re-stacking, and handling ... Many leaders began their careers in entry-level warehouse roles, and a significant portion of ...

Material Handler

Mundelein, IL

$23.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Material Handler This Material Handler position supports a high-volume manufacturing facility by ... Many supervisors, managers, and even vice presidents have advanced from entry-level roles ...

General Opportunities

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$18.95 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This general requisition is intended for applicants with a range of experience levels, from entry-level production candidates to experienced machine operators, material handlers, warehouse forklift ...

Entry Level Material Handler information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do entry level material handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level material handler in Gurnee, IL is $17.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 most commonly searched types of Material Handler jobs in Gurnee, IL?

The most popular types of Material Handler jobs in Gurnee, IL are:

What cities near Gurnee, IL are hiring for Entry Level Material Handler jobs?

Cities near Gurnee, IL with the most Entry Level Material Handler job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Handler job openings in Gurnee, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,364 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Material Handler

Aerotek

Waukegan, IL

$18 - $18.50/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Material HandlerJob Description

The Material Handler plays a key role in packing, re-stacking, and handling products in a cleanroom kit assembly environment. In this role, you work primarily on first shift, using basic equipment such as step stools to adjust pallet height and ensure materials are prepared accurately and safely for distribution, shipping, and receiving activities.

Responsibilities
  • Pack products according to written work instructions and established procedures.
  • Re-stack pallets by using a step stool to adjust 12-foot pallets down to 8 feet in height as required.
  • Pick, scan, load, and unload materials within the warehouse and cleanroom kit assembly facility.
  • Handle materials for distribution, shipping, and receiving, ensuring accurate counts and proper documentation.
  • Count product quantities accurately, including situations where items may be packed in different bundle sizes (for example, counting 40 items from a pack of 100).
  • Follow detailed written work instructions to maintain quality and consistency in all tasks.
  • Stand for the duration of the shift while performing packing, picking, and material handling duties.
  • Lift and move items weighing up to 20 pounds safely and efficiently.
  • Work in close quarters with other team members in a cleanroom environment while fully gowned.
  • Adhere to cleanroom protocols and gowning procedures to maintain a controlled and contamination-free environment.
  • Support kit assembly activities by organizing, handling, and preparing components for assembly.
  • Maintain a clean and orderly work area in accordance with cleanroom and warehouse standards.
Essential Skills
  • Ability to accurately count product quantities, including reconciling differences between required counts and package sizes.
  • Ability to stand for approximately 8 hours during the shift.
  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds on a regular basis.
  • Ability to follow written work instructions with close attention to detail.
  • Comfort working in close quarters with other team members in a cleanroom environment.
  • Willingness to comply with cleanroom gowning and appearance requirements, including restrictions on certain personal items.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Previous warehouse experience, including picking and packing, is beneficial.
  • Previous manufacturing or warehouse experience is a plus.
  • Previous cleanroom experience is advantageous.
  • Previous kit assembly experience is preferred.
  • Experience working in medical kit assembly is considered a strong advantage.
Why Work Here?

You join a world-class, clean and modern facility that offers clear opportunities for advancement and long-term growth. Many leaders began their careers in entry-level warehouse roles, and a significant portion of supervisors and managers have grown from picker and operator positions. The organization has a long history of consistent year-over-year growth and supports career mobility, including fully funded relocation for leadership opportunities in other locations. You benefit from a culture that values internal promotion, stability, and professional development in a supportive environment.

Work Environment

This position is based in a cleanroom kit assembly facility described as a super clean, world-class environment. You work on first shift, typically from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., performing material handling, picking, packing, and re-stacking tasks. The role involves using basic warehouse tools and equipment such as step stools and standard material handling practices in a distribution, shipping, and receiving setting. Assemblers and material handlers work in close proximity to one another and are required to fully gown up to meet cleanroom standards. The cleanroom environment includes specific appearance and attire requirements, such as wearing full cleanroom garments and adhering to restrictions on items like makeup, jewelry, and long nails, to maintain strict cleanliness and contamination control.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Waukegan, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $18.50/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Waukegan,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 24, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.