what is the job of a picker?

The picker works in warehouses or distribution centres and is responsible for collecting and managing products based on orders received by the logistics department of a company. In this role, you gather products from shelves or pallets, sort them, and prepare them for shipment. You may work across a wide range of sectors, such as industry, retail, logistics, e-commerce, food, or pharmaceutical warehouses.

The job includes finding and collecting products, checking the correct quantity and quality, and organising stock. You often use warehouse equipment, such as manual trolleys, barcode scanners, or storage systems. Attention to detail and consistency are required, as every order must be prepared accurately and on time.

A picker also needs to be organized, focused, and quick in completing daily tasks. Additionally, as they stand for many hours and move products of varying sizes and weights, it is important to have endurance and good physical fitness. At the same time, they work with colleagues in the warehouse or distribution department, so teamwork and communication are key elements of daily work.

could the role of picker suit your organizational skills? If yes, continue reading to learn what qualifications, skills, and experience you need to progress in this profession.

picker jobs
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average salary of a picker.

The salary of a picker in Greece depends on experience, the company, the sector, and working hours. In entry-level positions, the gross monthly salary usually starts from €800 up to €1,000. With 1 to 3 years of experience, earnings increase and can reach €1,000 to €1,200 per month. In more advanced roles or companies with an organised production and storage system, earnings can reach €1,300 or more.

which factors affect a picker's salary?

A picker's salary may be influenced by the type of employment. For example, those working shifts (morning-afternoon-night) or on weekends and holidays usually receive additional compensation. Meanwhile, companies with organised logistics systems offer additional benefits such as private insurance, transport to work, meal vouchers, or bonuses.

download our salary guide
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types of pickers.

Picker categories vary depending on the type of business, the size of the warehouse, and the sector of activity. Each work environment has different processes for organising and managing products, with the most common picker categories being:

Randstad Operational Career
Randstad Operational Career
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working as a picker.

As a picker, you have the opportunity to work in different work environments and sectors. It is a profession with steady demand, as most companies with warehouses or distribution centres need staff to manage orders. As a picker, you can work in supermarkets, e-commerce warehouses, logistics companies, industrial units, retail chains, or shopping centres.

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picker skills and education

To work as a picker in Greece, higher academic education is not mandatory, but it is important to have organisational thinking, responsibility, and teamwork skills. More specifically, it is good to meet certain requirements, such as: 

  • Education: To start in this role, a high school diploma is usually sufficient. It is useful to have basic math skills for inventory counting and reading documents, as well as a good understanding of work instructions. Basic computer knowledge helps in using warehouse management systems (WMS) or scanners.
  • Work experience and certifications: prior experience is not required for entry-level positions, as many companies provide warehouse training. However, previous experience in warehousing, logistics, or production is considered a significant advantage. Additionally, obtaining a broadens advancement prospects. Those wishing to develop professionally in the sector can attend seminars in logistics, warehousing, and supply chain management.

the skills and abilities of pickers.

To effectively perform the role of a picker, you need a combination of practical and organisational skills. The most important skills are the following:

  • Organisational thinking: Organisation is a key element in warehouse work. You need to follow picking procedures, correctly sort products, and complete orders accurately and quickly. The ability to prioritise helps manage workload effectively.
  • Attention to detail: every order must be executed without errors. Accuracy in product picking, code checking, and quantities is an important part of daily work.
  • Good physical condition: the role includes moving products, lifting boxes, and standing for several hours. It is important to follow safe lifting rules to avoid injuries.
  • Warehouse equipment skills: in daily work you use scanners, handheld computers, pallet trucks, or other warehouse tools. Good familiarity with the equipment facilitates order execution and increases productivity.
  • Problem-solving ability: every warehouse faces challenges such as stock shortages, order discrepancies, or delays. It is important to respond quickly and find practical solutions.
  • Team spirit and cooperation: you work daily with colleagues from the warehouse, logistics department, and distribution. Effective collaboration improves the speed and accuracy of deliveries.
  • Responsibility and professionalism: it is important to follow work instructions and warehouse safety rules. Consistency contributes to the smooth operation of the supply chain.
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FAQs.

Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the picker profession.

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