Explore rewarding Shipping and Receiving Attendant jobs, a vital operational role found in nearly every industry from hospitality and retail to manufacturing and healthcare. Professionals in this position are the critical link in the supply chain, ensuring the accurate and efficient flow of goods into and out of a facility. Their work directly impacts inventory control, operational costs, and customer satisfaction, making them essential team members in any organization that handles physical products. A Shipping and Receiving Attendant is primarily responsible for managing the logistics of goods at the dock door. On the receiving side, this involves carefully unloading deliveries from carriers, inspecting shipments for quantity and damage, and verifying all items against purchase orders and packing slips. They then process this incoming inventory, which includes labeling, sorting, and staging items for distribution to the appropriate departments or storage locations. For outgoing goods, attendants prepare shipments by packing items securely, generating necessary labels and documentation, coordinating with carriers like UPS, FedEx, or freight companies, and ensuring all outbound packages meet shipping deadlines and regulations. Common responsibilities central to these jobs include maintaining meticulous records through inventory management systems, updating tracking logs, and reconciling shipping invoices. Safety and organization are paramount; attendants must keep the receiving area clean and hazard-free, operate material handling equipment such as pallet jacks and hand trucks, and adhere strictly to protocols, especially when dealing with hazardous materials. They also frequently interact with delivery drivers, internal staff, and sometimes customers, requiring clear communication to resolve discrepancies, report damages, or provide status updates. Typical skills and requirements for Shipping and Receiving Attendant jobs highlight both physical and administrative capabilities. Employers generally seek candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. While entry-level positions are common, a keen eye for detail, basic math skills for counting and verifying, and proficiency with computers for data entry are essential. Physically, the role demands the ability to lift and move objects, often up to 50 pounds, and to stand, walk, bend, and reach throughout a shift. Key soft skills include reliability, strong organizational ability, time management to handle peak shipping/receiving times, and a focus on safety. For those seeking stable, hands-on careers with clear impact, Shipping and Receiving Attendant jobs offer a foundational path into the world of logistics and supply chain operations.
