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Materials Handler Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Saint-Gobain

Materials Handler

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$22/hr

Saint-Gobain - Materials Handler; Gaithersburg, MD - $22/hr; Cleanroom Kitting & Warehouse We're one of only two companies in the world that is consistently recognized as both a top Global Employer ...

Smithsonian

Materials Handler

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help The Materials Handler performs a wide range of work assignments and assists the labor and custodial supervisors and the maintenance staff. In this position ...

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Smithsonian Institution

Materials Handler

Landover, MD · On-site +1

$24.50 - $28.58/hr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help The Materials Handler performs a wide range of work assignments and assists the labor and custodial supervisors and the maintenance staff. In this position ...

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US Department of War

Materials Handler

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Lays out storage space and establish item and material locations in accordance with stated regulations. * Verifies incoming shipments against shipping/packing documents to ensure accuracy.

Legislative Branch

Materials Handler

Washington, DC · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Operates other powered materials handling equipment such as forklifts, low lift pallets and skid trucks, to load, unload, move, transfer and transport palletized goods, boxes and crates of materials ...

Library of Congress

Materials Handler

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$26.74 - $31.19/hr

Operates other powered materials handling equipment such as forklifts, low lift pallets and skid trucks, to load, Unload, move, transfer and transport palletized goods, boxes and crates of materials ...

Library of Congress

Materials Handler

Washington, DC · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Operates other powered materials handling equipment such as forklifts, low lift pallets and skid trucks, to load, Unload, move, transfer and transport palletized goods, boxes and crates of materials ...

US Legislative Branch

Materials Handler

Washington, DC

$26.74/hr

Knowledge of materials handling and warehouse procedures.** Skill in operating and maintaining materials handling and warehouse-related equipment and vehicles with safety and dexterity.** Ability to ...

US Government Jobs

Materials Handler

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Smithsonian Institution The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is located in one of the SI ...

New

US Government Jobs

Materials Handler

Washington, DC · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Logistics Services Division Position This position is located in the Logistics Services Division, Integrated Support Services Directorate, Chief Operating Officer. The position description number for ...

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Materials Handler information

See Washington salary details

$13

$20

$27

How much do materials handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials handler in Washington is $20.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a materials handler?

Materials handlers are workers responsible for moving, storing, and managing materials within warehouses, factories, or similar facilities. They operate equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks to load and unload shipments, organize inventory, and ensure products are delivered to the correct locations. Materials handlers play a crucial role in maintaining efficient supply chains and safe, orderly work environments. Their tasks often also include checking shipments for damage, keeping records, and following safety procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a materials handler?

To thrive as a Materials Handler, you need knowledge of inventory management, safe material handling practices, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), forklifts, pallet jacks, and relevant safety certifications like OSHA are often required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for efficiency and teamwork. These abilities ensure accurate inventory control, workplace safety, and seamless supply chain operations.

What are some common challenges materials handlers face, and how can they be overcome?

Materials Handlers often encounter challenges such as managing heavy workloads during peak times, ensuring the accurate tracking of inventory, and safely handling bulky or hazardous materials. To overcome these, it's important to stay organized, use proper lifting techniques, and follow established safety protocols. Many teams foster a collaborative environment, so asking for assistance and maintaining clear communication with supervisors and coworkers can also help address these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Materials Handler vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectMaterials HandlerWarehouse Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma; forklift certification often preferredHigh school diploma; forklift certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, warehouses, distribution centersWarehouses, distribution centers, retail storage
Job FocusHandling, storing, and moving materials within facilitiesReceiving, stocking, and shipping goods
Common UsageManufacturing, logistics, industrial sectorsRetail, logistics, wholesale sectors

Materials Handlers and Warehouse Workers often share similar environments and certifications. However, Materials Handlers focus more on moving and managing materials within a facility, while Warehouse Workers typically handle receiving, stocking, and shipping goods. Both roles are essential in logistics and manufacturing industries, with overlapping skills but different primary responsibilities.

How do you become a materials handler?

To become a materials handler, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with warehouse or inventory management. Training on equipment like forklifts and knowledge of safety procedures are often required, and certifications may be preferred by employers.

How much do materials handlers make in the US?

Materials handlers in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced handlers with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Many roles involve operating forklifts or other equipment and may require physical stamina and safety training.

Is materials handling a hard job?

Materials handling is physically demanding and often involves lifting, moving, and organizing heavy or bulky items, which can be challenging. It requires attention to safety procedures, proper use of equipment like forklifts, and sometimes working in fast-paced environments or irregular shifts.

What are the duties of a materials handler?

A materials handler is responsible for receiving, storing, and distributing materials within a warehouse or manufacturing environment. They often operate equipment such as forklifts, maintain inventory records, and ensure proper handling and safety procedures are followed. Attention to detail and physical stamina are important for this role.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Materials Handler jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Materials Handler job openings:

Materials Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Handler job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,910 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Materials Handler

US Government Jobs - Other Agencies

Hyattsville, MD • On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

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Job description

Materials Handler

The Materials Handler performs a wide range of work assignments and assists the labor and custodial supervisors and the maintenance staff. In this position, you will:

  • Keeps a log of all items received and when distributed to staff.
  • Assists the labor staff with moving and arranging office furniture, exhibit props, and unique event set-ups as directed.
  • Operates a scissor lift, one-person lift, forklift, Cushman, and other motorized vehicles.
  • Determines within the general warehouse plan how to organize and arrange stock in the general area.

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