Job Description

An Order Filler is responsible for selecting and preparing (filling) customer orders for delivery. This role involves gathering products from a warehouse or storage area, ensuring order accuracy, and preparing them for shipment or pickup.

Typical Preparation

Education: No formal educational credential

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: Short-term

Outlook

Projected Growth: 6.3% (above average)

Annual job openings: 472,300

Direct AI exposure: 11% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 27% of tasks

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $37K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$30K
per year
$34K
per year
$37K
per year
$45K
per year
$49K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $14K below the national average.

What does an Order Filler do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Picks products from warehouse shelves based on customer orders.
  • Packs and prepares orders for shipment or customer pickup.
  • Checks order accuracy and ensures proper item quantity and quality.
  • Maintains inventory records and reports any discrepancies.
  • Operates warehouse equipment, such as forklifts or hand trucks.

Work environment

Order Fillers typically work in warehouses, distribution centers, or retail storage areas. The work environment is fast-paced and may involve operating machinery like forklifts or hand trucks. Shift work is common, and the role often requires physical activity, including lifting and moving products.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • E-commerce Order Fulfillment: Specializing in filling online customer orders.
  • Retail Order Processing: Focusing on order fulfillment for retail stores.
  • Inventory Management: Specializing in inventory control and stock management.
  • Cold Storage Order Fulfillment: Working in refrigerated environments, often for food products.
  • Hazardous Material Handling: Specializing in the safe handling and packaging of hazardous materials.

Description

Order Fillers are vital in ensuring that customers receive the correct products in a timely manner. This role requires an attention to detail to accurately pick and pack items as per the order specifications. Efficiency and speed are important, as Order Fillers often work with tight deadlines, especially in high-volume warehouses or during peak seasons.

Familiarity with warehouse organization and the ability to quickly locate items is crucial. The use of technology, such as handheld scanners and warehouse management systems, is common for tracking inventory and processing orders. Physical stamina and the ability to stand, walk, lift, and bend for extended periods are necessary, as the role involves manual handling of goods.

Safety is also a key concern, especially when operating equipment or handling heavy or hazardous materials. Order Fillers must adhere to safety guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries. The role may also involve teamwork, as Order Fillers often work alongside other warehouse staff to manage and fulfill orders efficiently.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Order Filler if you are...

Pros:

  • Opportunities for physical activity throughout the workday.
  • A sense of accomplishment in fulfilling customer orders.
  • Potential for career growth in logistics and supply chain management.

Cons:

  • Physically demanding work with potential for strain or injury.
  • The need to work in various environmental conditions, including cold storage.
  • Potentially repetitive tasks and the pressure of meeting deadlines.

How to become an Order Filler

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is generally sufficient for this role. On-the-job training is commonly provided, and no specific higher education is required, although courses in logistics or supply chain management can be beneficial.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Physical education to build stamina and physical fitness.
  • Mathematics for inventory tracking and order accuracy.
  • Business or logistics classes to understand supply chain basics.
  • Computer courses for familiarity with technology used in order fulfillment.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participate in team sports or physical clubs.
  • Volunteer in roles that involve organization and logistics.
  • Seek part-time jobs in retail or warehouse settings for practical experience.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue vocational training in logistics, warehousing, or supply chain management.
  • Gain certifications in forklift operation or other warehouse machinery.
  • Apply to entry-level positions in warehouses or distribution centers to gain experience.

More resources

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