Role Description

1. Entry requirements

There are no set requirements, but a good standard of general education is important, including GCSEs in maths and English. Computer skills will also be useful for using online sales systems and scanners.
 
You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.

2. Skills required

You’ll need:

good timekeeping skills

the ability to work quickly and accurately

a well organised approach

3. What you'll do

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

selecting items to match the customer’s order sheet

using voice-activated picking machines and scanners

requesting freshly made items from in-house departments like bakeries

checking product quality

choosing suitable replacements where stock has sold out

packing items ready for despatch

updating customer records on computer systems

helping customers if working in-store

4. Salary

Starter: £14,000 to £17,000

Experienced: £18,000 to £20,000

Highly Experienced: £23,000

You may receive higher pay for night shifts or meeting targets.

5. Working hours, patterns and environment

You’ll usually work up to 40 hours a week on shifts, which may include weekends and nights.

You’ll be based in a warehouse, distribution centre or larger retail store. The job can be physically demanding and you could work in cool temperatures, for example in chiller rooms.

You’ll need your own transport to get to work when shifts fall outside normal public transport hours.

6. Career path and progression

With experience, you could become a shift supervisor then move into section or warehouse management. 

You could also become a delivery driver if you work for a supermarket.