Warehouse operatives look after goods in a stockroom or warehouse. They receive, store and send out the goods, making sure that there are no missing or damaged items. They may also be known as warehouse assistants.
The Work
You could be:
taking delivery of goods and signing the delivery notes or receipts
checking goods for missing or damaged items
unloading goods by hand, with trolleys or forklift trucks
stacking goods in the correct place
keeping records of goods, normally on a computer
carrying out stock control on a regular basis
sometimes selling items to customers
picking, weighing or packing goods that have to be sent out
keeping the work areas clean and tidy.
Pay
The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:
where you work
the size of the company or organisation you work for
the demand for the job.
Starting pay is often based on the National Minimum Wage (NMW) or the National Living Wage (NLW).
As of 1 April 2026 the National Minimum Wage is £8.00 an hour for workers under 18, £10.85 an hour for workers aged 18 to 20. The National Living Wage for those aged 21 and over is £12.71 an hour.
This can rise up to around £14.00 an hour depending on experience and level of responsibility. Overtime rates can be nearly double the normal hourly rate.
Conditions
You might work outside in all weather conditions.
You would sometimes work in cold, draughty or dusty warehouses or stockrooms.
You may have to climb ladders and work at heights.
You would be bending, stretching and lifting, sometimes heavy items.
Your hours may be irregular, including shift work, evenings and weekends.
You would wear protective clothing such as safety shoes and overalls.
Getting In
A good general education is useful. Some employers may prefer you to have some subjects at National 4.
You might get in through a Modern Apprenticeship.
The ability to use a computer is helpful.
You need to be physically fit.
You may need a forklift driving licence for some jobs.
What Does it Take?
You need to be:
able to work alone but also as part of a team
reliable
honest
able to work quickly and efficiently
aware of health and safety regulations.
You need to have:
good organisation skills
a methodical and tidy approach
the ability to complete paper work
basic IT skills.
Training
You would normally train on the job under the supervision of experienced workers.
Training would include storage, carrying and handling techniques, computerised stock control and forklift truck driving if required.
You may be able to attend part time at college for relevant qualifications.
Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) in Warehousing, Storage and Distribution at SCQF Level 5 and SCQF Level 6 are available.
Getting On
After sufficient experience, you may be able to get promotion into a supervisory post.
In time, you may be able to progress to general warehouse or stockroom management.
Gaining SVQs or other relevant qualifications will improve your promotion prospects.
More Information
Jobs are available in many different types of organisation, including cash and carry firms, distribution companies, large retail stores, manufacturing companies, departments of central or local government or the health service.
