Question 1

What does a warehouse administrator do?

Accepted Answer

A warehouse administrator provides essential administrative support for warehouse operations including data entry, documentation management, reporting, scheduling coordination and maintaining compliance records. They work closely with warehouse managers, dispatch teams and inventory staff to ensure smooth administrative workflows. Most positions are covered by the Storage Services and Wholesale Award (MA000084).

Question 2

What is the difference between a warehouse administrator and inventory clerk?

Accepted Answer

Warehouse administrators handle broader administrative functions including documentation, scheduling support, communication coordination and general office duties. Inventory clerks focus specifically on inventory management, stock counting, reconciliation and inventory reporting. Some businesses combine these roles depending on operational size.

Question 3

What award covers warehouse administrators in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Warehouse administrator positions in logistics and warehousing are typically covered by the Storage Services and Wholesale Award 2020 (MA000084). This modern award applies to storage services, warehousing and wholesale operations. Always verify which award applies to your specific business operations.

Question 4

What classification level should I use for a warehouse administrator?

Accepted Answer

Under the Storage Services and Wholesale Award, warehouse administrators typically start at Level 2 (routine clerical duties) and may progress to Level 3 or higher with increased responsibilities including system administration, coordination duties or supervisory functions. Classification depends on the complexity of duties and level of autonomy required.

Question 5

What qualifications do warehouse administrators need?

Accepted Answer

Warehouse administrators need strong computer literacy, excellent organisational skills and attention to detail. While formal qualifications aren't always required, Certificate III in Business Administration or Warehousing Operations can be beneficial. Experience with WMS, Microsoft Office (particularly Excel) and business communication is highly valued.

Question 6

Do warehouse administrators need experience with specific software?

Accepted Answer

Experience with warehouse management systems (WMS), Microsoft Office suite (especially Excel, Word and Outlook), enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and database software is highly desirable. Many employers also value experience with accounting software like MYOB or Xero for invoice processing and basic bookkeeping tasks.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a warehouse administrator?

Accepted Answer

Look for previous administrative experience ideally in logistics, warehousing or supply chain environments, strong data entry accuracy, experience with documentation management, ability to multitask and prioritize, and excellent communication skills. Experience coordinating schedules and managing compliance documentation is valuable.

Question 8

Are numeracy skills important for warehouse administrators?

Accepted Answer

Yes, numeracy skills are important. Warehouse administrators handle invoicing, process purchase orders, reconcile documentation, track KPIs and prepare reports with numerical data. They need to be comfortable with calculations, percentages and basic accounting principles.

Question 9

Should I hire permanent or casual warehouse administrators?

Accepted Answer

Permanent staff are typically preferred for warehouse administrator positions due to the need for system knowledge, understanding of procedures, relationship building with staff and suppliers, and consistency in record-keeping. The role requires deep familiarity with your operations which is best achieved through permanent employment. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What are typical working hours for warehouse administrators?

Accepted Answer

Warehouse administrators typically work standard business hours Monday to Friday, though some positions may require early starts to coordinate with warehouse operations, or flexibility around dispatch deadlines. Hours vary based on operational requirements but are generally more predictable than warehouse floor roles.

Question 11

What should I include in a warehouse administrator employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and award classification, employment type and working hours, hourly rate or salary, applicable award (Storage Services and Wholesale Award), reporting structure, main duties including systems used, confidentiality requirements and any specific requirements. Use digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 12

What penalty rates apply to warehouse administrators?

Accepted Answer

Under the Storage Services and Wholesale Award, penalty rates may apply for work performed outside standard hours including weekends, public holidays and overtime. Casual employees receive a 25% loading instead of leave entitlements. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 13

How should I roster warehouse administrators?

Accepted Answer

Roster warehouse administrators to align with warehouse operating hours and peak administrative periods. Consider overlap with management for coordination, availability during receiving hours for documentation processing and coverage for end-of-month reporting. Using rostering software helps ensure adequate coverage and compliance.

Question 14

What rostering compliance applies to warehouse administrators?

Accepted Answer

Warehouse administrators are covered by the Storage Services and Wholesale Award which sets minimum hours, break entitlements and notice periods for roster changes. Full-time employees work 38 ordinary hours per week. Part-time employees need agreed regular hours. Ensure rosters comply with all award provisions.

Question 15

How do I manage administrator availability during busy periods?

Accepted Answer

Communicate peak periods well in advance including month-end close, stocktake periods and busy seasons. Plan for potential extended hours and build flexibility into contracts. Use staff availability management tools to coordinate coverage during critical administrative periods.

Question 16

Can warehouse administrators work from home?

Accepted Answer

Some warehouse administrator tasks like data entry, report preparation, documentation processing and email management may be suitable for remote work depending on system access and security requirements. However, coordination with warehouse staff, receiving verification and on-site problem solving typically require regular on-site presence. Discuss hybrid arrangements during recruitment if appropriate.

Warehouse administrator job description