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Material Handling Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Henrico, VA ยท On-site

$18/hr

If you have previous material handling or shipping and receiving experience and are comfortable operating a forklift, we encourage you to apply! Job Responsibilities of Material Handler * Fill ...

Material Handler

Henrico, VA ยท On-site

$18/hr

If you have previous material handling or shipping and receiving experience and are comfortable operating a forklift, we encourage you to apply! Job Responsibilities of Material Handler * Fill ...

Rental Coordinator

Chesapeake, VA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

At Burwell Material Handling, we're all about people -- our team, our customers, and the communities we serve. What started as C & B Material Handling has grown into Burwell because of the people ...

Material Handler

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Material Handler is responsible for the physical movement, handling, and organization of materials within the warehouse and shop environment. This role supports receiving, storage, and ...

Material Handler

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$38K - $44K/yr

The Material Handler is responsible for the physical movement, handling, and organization of materials within the warehouse and shop environment. This role supports receiving, storage, and ...

Material Handler

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Material Handler is responsible for the physical movement, handling, and organization of materials within the warehouse and shop environment. This role supports receiving, storage, and ...

Material Handler

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$38K - $44K/yr

The Material Handler is responsible for the physical movement, handling, and organization of materials within the warehouse and shop environment. This role supports receiving, storage, and ...

Material Handler

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Maintains material-handling equipment by completing pre-use inspections. * Prepares material for shipment by identifying location, pulling and loading. * Assist with the execution of Cycle counts and ...

New

The Material Handler moves product and material safely and efficiently in the die cutting area, and bailer room using a forklift and other material handling equipment. Also responsible for ...

Material Handler

Dublin, VA ยท On-site

$18.75/hr

Material handling, farm work, or laborer experience preferred * Clean background check with no felony (required) * Initial and random drug screenings (required) * Valid Driver's license (required ...

Showing results 21-40

Material Handling information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do material handling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for material handling in Virginia is $18.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is material handling?

Material handling refers to the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption, and disposal. It involves a variety of equipment and systems, such as conveyors, forklifts, storage racks, and automated systems, to ensure materials are efficiently transported and stored. Effective material handling is crucial for improving workflow, reducing costs, and maintaining workplace safety.

Are jobs in material handling in demand?

While the positions are becoming more automated, the operators of material handling systems are becoming more vital to the efficient management of inventory and order fulfillment. The two main types of jobs are manual handling, which is becoming less common, and automated handling, which includes the use of various machines to protect workers and make supply systems flow more smoothly. Increased automation results in a lowering of demand for labor, meaning that material handling should not be considered a long-term career.

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

To thrive as a 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, forklifts, pallet jacks, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure efficient inventory movement, workplace safety, and smooth operations in fast-paced environments.

What are some common challenges faced in a material handling role, and how can I prepare for them?

Material Handling professionals often face challenges such as managing heavy loads efficiently, working in fast-paced environments, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To prepare, it's important to develop physical stamina, learn proper lifting techniques, and become familiar with the operation of equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks. Additionally, practicing good communication skills is essential, as you'll frequently coordinate with warehouse staff and supervisors to ensure smooth workflow and prevent errors or accidents.

What is the difference between Material Handling vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectMaterial HandlingWarehouse Associate
Primary RoleMoving, storing, and managing materials and products within a facilityReceiving, stocking, and preparing items for shipment or storage
Required CertificationsForklift certification often requiredBasic OSHA training, sometimes forklift certification
Work EnvironmentFactories, warehouses, distribution centersWarehouses, distribution centers, retail storage areas
Common TasksOperating forklifts, loading/unloading, inventory managementPicking, packing, stocking, inventory checks

Material Handling and Warehouse Associate roles often overlap in warehouse environments, but Material Handling focuses more on moving and managing materials, often involving equipment operation, while Warehouse Associates handle stocking, packing, and order fulfillment. Both roles require safety training and are essential in supply chain operations.

Is material handling a good career?

Material handling involves managing the movement, storage, and control of materials within warehouses, factories, or distribution centers. It offers opportunities for employment with roles that often require physical stamina, operating equipment like forklifts, and sometimes certifications. The field can provide stable employment and career advancement in logistics and supply chain industries.

What are the duties of a material handling?

A material handling worker is responsible for moving, storing, and managing materials within warehouses, factories, or distribution centers. Their duties include operating equipment like forklifts, organizing inventory, and ensuring safe handling practices. They often use tools such as pallet jacks and may need certifications for equipment operation.

What are popular job titles related to Material Handling jobs in Virginia?

For Material Handling jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Material Handling jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Material Handling job openings:

Infographic showing various Material Handling job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,561 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Warehouse Worker - Material Handling - GPHE 1st Shift

Alfa Laval U.S. Holding Inc.

Richmond, VA โ€ข On-site

$23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Every day, we get opportunities to make a positive impact - on our colleagues, partners, customers and society. Together, we're pioneering the solutions of the future and unlocking the full potential of precious resources. Trusted to act on initiative, we challenge conventional thinking to develop world-leading technologies that inspire progress in vital areas, including energy, food, water and shipping.

As we push forward, the innovative, open spirit that fuels our 140-year-old start-up culture and rapid growth also drives our personal growth. So, as we shape a more resourceful, less wasteful world, we build our careers too.

About the job

Our Richmond manufacturing facility is adding a 1st shift Warehouse Worker - Material Handling - GPHE operator to our lineup, and we'd like to hear from you.

Hours: 6:00 am -2:30pm Monday through Friday, plus overtime as required

As a part of the team, you will:

  • Receive daily work assignments from the Team Leader / Team Manager and execute material handling, picking, staging, replenishment, and delivery activities using Standard Operating Procedures as a base.
  • Coordinate with the Team Leader / Team Manager and Inventory Control to resolve material flow, picking, and inventory discrepancies.
  • Report any deviations, including safety, quality, parts, equipment, or delivery issues, to the Status Boards immediately and update the Team Leader / Team Manager.
  • Cross trains in multiple production lines to provide flexible support and enhance operational efficiency.
  • Be active and engaged in the Daily Status Board Meetings by explaining the deviations and propose solutions.
  • Review & suggest any improvements for the Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Look into your own areas for waste (time, motion, transportation, inventory etc.) elimination opportunities and drive continuous improvements.
  • Engaged in daily & weekly 5S routines to achieve high 5S Standard and Sustain it.
  • Use the downtime efficiently to learn the new processes & run improvements from the status board activities.
  • Employees expected to conduct themselves with professionalism, courtesy, and cooperation toward colleagues, customers, vendors, and visitors.
  • Safely operate forklifts, order pickers / manlifts, and reach trucks to transport material, equipment, or product as required.
  • Full compliance with all Alfa Laval policies and procedures is required to maintain a respectful, safe, and productive work environment.
  • Perform timely and accurate material picks, replenishment, and delivery activities to support production schedules and internal customer needs.
  • Verify material, quantities, and locations before movement; promptly report shortages, damage, or discrepancies.
  • Maintain orderly staging areas and support the flow of materials between the warehouse and production.
  • Accurate & Consistent use of Personal Protective Equipment (Safety Glasses, Steel Toe Shoes, Gloves, Uniform others as required by the specific process)
  • Other duties as assigned.

What you know:

You have a High School Diploma or equivalent with relevant experience, and:

  • 2+ years of experience in materials, warehousing, or manufacturing.
  • 2+ years of experience operating forklifts
  • Forklift certification preferred.
  • Basic desktop computer and handheld scanner skills required.
  • Basic math skills required, including the ability to read a tape measure.
  • Prior manufacturing and material handling experience preferred.

PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

  • Stands or walks 80% of workday.
  • Required to have visual acuity to operate industrial vehicles and/or heavy equipment.
  • Be able to lift up to 60 pounds.
  • Must wear PPE: steel toe boots, safety glasses, cut-resistant gloves/sleeves
  • Environmental Factors (hazardous materials, work location, work surfaces)

At Alfa Laval, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive and dynamic workplace that values diverse perspectives and experiences. While we typically welcome applicants from all locations, currently, we are prioritizing candidates who reside in the US or have an established presence in the area.

What's in it for you?

We offer a challenging position in an open and friendly environment where we help each other to develop and create value. Your work will have a true impact on Alfa Laval's future success. Our benefits-eligible associates enjoy healthcare, dental and vision plans, a robust wellness program, generous 401(k), paid holidays, paid time off benefits, and more. At Alfa Laval, we carefully consider a wide range of factors to determine your total compensation package. We rely on market indicators and consider your specific job, background, skills, and experience to get it right. The current hourly rate for this position is $23.50.

Alfa Laval is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, or business need, without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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