Question 1

What does a warehouse picker packer do?

Accepted Answer

A warehouse picker packer is responsible for selecting items from warehouse shelves to fulfil customer orders and packing them securely for shipping. They work in distribution centres, e-commerce fulfilment centres and wholesale warehouses to ensure orders are accurate and dispatched on time.

Question 2

What award covers warehouse picker packers in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Most warehouse picker packer positions are covered by the Storage Services and Wholesale Award 2020 (MA000084). This award applies to employees in warehousing, storage and distribution operations. Some positions in retail distribution may fall under the General Retail Industry Award.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a picker packer?

Accepted Answer

Under the Storage Services and Wholesale Award, picker packers are typically classified at Level 1 or Level 2 depending on experience and duties. Those operating equipment like order pickers or electric pallet jacks may be classified higher. See our Storage Services Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a picker packer job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract candidates. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive hourly rate.' Check the current Storage Services Award rates for guidance.

Question 5

What qualifications do warehouse picker packers need?

Accepted Answer

No formal qualifications are required for entry-level picker packer roles. However, employers value manual handling training, basic numeracy and literacy skills, and the ability to use RF scanners. A forklift licence is beneficial but not usually essential for this role.

Question 6

What experience should I look for in a picker packer?

Accepted Answer

For experienced roles, look for previous warehouse or logistics experience, familiarity with pick-to-light or RF scanning systems, understanding of stock rotation (FIFO), and ability to work in fast-paced environments. Experience with specific product types relevant to your business is also valuable.

Question 7

Do picker packers need any licences?

Accepted Answer

While not mandatory for basic roles, a forklift licence (LF class) or order picker licence (LO class) significantly increases employability and allows workers to take on additional duties. Some employers will sponsor licence training for promising employees.

Question 8

What physical requirements should be noted?

Accepted Answer

Picker packer roles involve standing for extended periods, walking throughout the warehouse, bending and reaching, and lifting items typically up to 20kg. Any physical requirements should be clearly stated in the job description to ensure candidates can safely perform the role.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent picker packers?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your order volumes. Permanent staff provide consistency and reduce training costs, while casuals offer flexibility for peak periods like sales events or Christmas. Many warehouses use a core permanent team supplemented by casuals. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to picker packers?

Accepted Answer

Under the Storage Services Award, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays (150%), Sundays (200%), public holidays (250%), and shift work penalties for afternoon and night shifts. Casual employees receive a 25% loading. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for picker packers?

Accepted Answer

Under the Storage Services Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is typically 3 hours per shift. This ensures workers receive reasonable compensation for attending work. Part-time employees have guaranteed minimum hours as per their contract.

Question 12

What should I include in a picker packer employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type, hourly rate, applicable award, main duties, work location, shift patterns, physical requirements, PPE requirements and KPI expectations. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to picker packers?

Accepted Answer

Under the Storage Services Award, rosters should be provided at least 7 days in advance where practicable. Changes require reasonable notice unless due to unforeseen circumstances. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of upcoming shifts.

Question 14

How do I handle fluctuating order volumes?

Accepted Answer

Build flexibility into your workforce with a mix of permanent and casual staff. Use historical data to predict busy periods and schedule accordingly. Rostering software with demand forecasting can help you match staffing levels to expected workload.

Question 15

What breaks are picker packers entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Storage Services Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break of 30-60 minutes. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. Ensure breaks are scheduled to maintain productivity while meeting award requirements.

Question 16

Can I set productivity targets for picker packers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many warehouses set pick rates or units per hour targets. These should be reasonable, clearly communicated and consistently applied. Targets should account for product types, warehouse layout and equipment available. Track performance fairly using your warehouse management system.

Warehouse picker packer job description