Explore: Warehouse Assistant

Logistics, Construction & Manufacturing

Johannesburg

Fixed term contract

6 months

Brief description of the role

As a Warehouse Assistant at a national distribution centre, I support the daily operations involved in the storage, handling, and dispatch of goods. My role includes receiving and checking incoming stock, organizing inventory, preparing orders for shipment, and maintaining cleanliness and safety in the warehouse. I work closely with inventory controllers, drivers, and logistics teams to ensure efficient flow of goods and accurate stock management.

Key responsibilities and day to day tasks of the job

n a typical day, I assist with receiving deliveries by unloading trucks, checking stock against delivery notes, and reporting any discrepancies. I help label and sort items, then move them to designated storage areas using pallet jacks or trolleys. I regularly update inventory records, either manually or using a barcode scanner and warehouse management software.

My duties also include picking and packing customer orders according to shipping instructions, preparing them for courier or transport collection. I assist in conducting stock counts and cycle checks to ensure inventory accuracy. Maintaining a clean, organized, and hazard-free workspace is also part of my role, including disposing of packaging waste and following safety protocols like wearing PPE.

Teamwork is a big part of the job—I often coordinate with supervisors, drivers, and other warehouse staff to meet tight deadlines and ensure smooth operations, especially during high-demand periods.

Skills most important for success in this role

*Basic Numeracy & Literacy:
Useful for reading labels, understanding invoices, calculating quantities, and handling documentation.
*Organisational Skills:
Keeping inventory and storage areas neat, labelled, and easily accessible improves workflow and reduces errors.
*Communication Skills:
Clear verbal communication with supervisors and team members ensures safety and efficiency.
*Familiarity with Warehouse Equipment:
Knowing how to operate tools like pallet jacks, forklifts, or barcode scanners (training often provided).
*Health & Safety Awareness:
Understanding proper lifting techniques and following safety protocols to avoid accidents.

School subjects / tertiary courses / required certificates

Mathematics – Essential for counting stock, measurements, and understanding logistics figures.
Business Studies – Helps with understanding inventory systems and the supply chain.
English – Important for reading instructions, safety manuals, and communicating clearly.

Tertiary Courses (Recommended but not always required):
Logistics and Supply Chain Management (NQF Level 4–6)
Warehouse Operations Certificate
Inventory Management or Stock Control Courses
Forklift Operation and Safety Training (if operating machinery)

Required Certificates (may vary by employer):
Matric Certificate (Grade 12) – Often the minimum requirement.
Forklift License (if applicable) – For roles that involve machine operation.
Health and Safety Compliance Training – Many warehouses require basic safety training.

Short courses from institutions like TVET colleges, AgriSETA, or logistics training providers can enhance employability.

Kind of work environment (e.g Office based, remote, fieldwork etc)

The work environment is physically active and warehouse-based, typically involving large indoor storage spaces. The setting is fast-paced, with regular movement of goods using trolleys, forklifts, and other equipment.

Warehouse assistants spend most of the day on their feet, often lifting, sorting, or scanning items. The environment can be noisy due to machinery and loading/unloading activities. Temperatures may vary depending on the season or storage requirements (e.g., cold storage).

Safety is a key focus, so wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) like safety boots, gloves, and reflective vests is standard. Teamwork, time efficiency, and physical stamina are essential in this setting.

Potential career progression opportunities in the field

Senior Warehouse Assistant / Shift Leader – Take on a more supervisory role, overseeing teams and managing sections of the warehouse.
Warehouse Supervisor / Team Leader – Responsible for daily operations, staff scheduling, and inventory flow within larger warehouses.
Inventory Controller / Stock Clerk – Specialise in managing stock levels, tracking incoming/outgoing goods, and handling discrepancies.
Logistics Coordinator – Work with transport teams to ensure timely deliveries, route planning, and coordination with suppliers or clients.
Dispatch Manager / Receiving Manager – Oversee either the outbound or inbound side of operations.
Warehouse or Logistics Manager – Lead full warehouse operations, including staffing, reporting, budgeting, and process improvement.
Supply Chain Analyst / Specialist – With further education or upskilling, transition into supply chain management, analytics, or procurement.
Entrepreneur / Small Business Owner – Start your own delivery, courier, or warehousing-related service with industry insight and contacts.