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

Material Handler

Racine, WI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Material Handler Position Description: Opens/closes crates or containers containing coils or other ... entry level, prefer three to nine months related experience and/or training; or equivalent ...

Material Handler / Extrusion *****530am-4pm**** TONS OF GROWTH The Material Handler / Extrusion ... The position is entry-level with night shift hours from 5:45 pm to 6:15 am, working every other ...

General Opportunities

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$18.95 - $40/hr

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 ...

Picker

Waukegan, IL

$19 - $20/hr

Picker / Material Handler We're looking for a detail-oriented Picker / Material Handler to support ... Clear advancement paths, with many leaders promoted from entry-level roles. * Supportive culture ...

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 Sep 8, 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 to lift and move 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.

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 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,364 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Material Handler

Racine, WI • On-site

Modine Manufacturing Company
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

$15.75 - $19/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Modine Manufacturing rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

441st of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Material Handler

Position Description: Opens/closes crates or containers containing coils or other customer products. Inspects coils for any signs of damage or conditions related to quality assurance/quality control. Secures or removes lifting attachments. Climbs ladders. Lifts coils, by hand, as necessary to load/unload load bars or to load/unload from crates. Reads work order or follows oral instructions of lead person to ascertain coils or containers to be moved, hung or crated in the work area. Follows published work instructions, quality procedures, and safety protocols. Cleans work area and equipment as instructed. Substitutes for material handlers in other work areas as needed. Other duties may be assigned.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Safety: Evaluates the work area(s) to ensure it is safe. Wears the proper PPE for the work performed. Participates in Safety Training.
  • Quality: Inspects coils for any signs of damage or conditions related to quality. Inspects coils for damages prior to processing and communicates any issues to Team Lead. Follows the prescribed standard work instructions applicable to the job being performed. Attaches identifying tags or labels to coils or marks information on crates, pallets, or other containers.
  • Delivery: Ensures coils are inspected before sending them to the next process.
  • Cost: Ensures proper material handling protocol is followed for customer assets. Understands the takt time goals of the area.
  • Continuous Improvement: Has a basic understanding of Modine Operating System (MOS). Ensures area meets the 5S standards and looks for ways to improve. Provides feedback for ideas to improve the process.

Required Education & Qualifications: 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. Must be able to work any shift. Weekend work and/or overtime may be required. Prompt work ethic and above average attendance required. Education and/or Experience - High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or entry level, prefer three to nine months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Why Choose Modine? Health & Well-being: Day One competitive health, dental & vision insurance coverage. Employee Assistance Program. After 90 days of continuous employment Maternity Leave (12 weeks at 100% pay). 8 weeks of short term disability leave paid at 100%. 4 weeks of paid parental leave paid at 100%. Paternity Leave (4 weeks at 100% pay). Financial Benefits: 401k Retirement plan and company paid match. Life Insurance. Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). Short Term Disability (company paid). Long Term Disability. Work-Life Balance: Competitive time-off policies. Tuition Reimbursement. Modine is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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