Freezer Warehouse Associate | Cold Storage Operations

🎯 Role Definition

As a Freezer Warehouse Associate, you are the backbone of our cold chain logistics. Your primary mission is to handle, move, and track inventory within our state-of-the-art freezer facility. You will be responsible for accurately fulfilling customer orders, managing inbound and outbound shipments, and operating material handling equipment in a sub-zero environment. This position requires a high degree of physical stamina, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to safety and food quality standards. You will play a vital role in ensuring that products reach our customers in perfect condition.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer or Construction Worker
Retail Stock Associate or Merchandiser
Fast Food or Restaurant Kitchen Staff

Advancement To:

Certified Forklift Operator / Reach Truck Operator
Inventory Control Specialist
Warehouse Team Lead or Shift Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

Shipping and Receiving Clerk
Dry Warehouse Associate
Quality Control Inspector

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Accurately pick, scan, and assemble customer orders using an RF scanner and voice-picking technology while working in a sustained freezer environment with temperatures as low as -20°F.
Safely and efficiently operate material handling equipment (MHE), including electric pallet jacks, stand-up forklifts, and high-reach trucks, to move products and materials.
Load and unload inbound and outbound trailers, ensuring proper handling, stacking, and securing of products to prevent damage during transit.
Verify shipment accuracy by comparing bills of lading, purchase orders, and packing slips with the physical product received or shipped.
Place incoming products into designated freezer storage locations, ensuring proper rotation (FIFO/FEFO) and maximizing space utilization.
Perform routine cycle counts and assist with full physical inventories to maintain precise inventory records and investigate discrepancies.
Build stable and secure pallets of product, applying shrink wrap and proper labeling for shipment or storage.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment by adhering to all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Conduct pre-shift inspections on all MHE and report any defects, damages, or malfunctions to the maintenance team or supervisor immediately.
Monitor and record temperatures within the freezer and on trucks to ensure compliance with food safety and quality assurance standards.
Separate and stage damaged, expired, or non-conforming products in a designated quarantine area for further inspection.
Efficiently consolidate partial pallets of product to optimize warehouse storage space.
Follow detailed work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all warehouse tasks to ensure consistency and quality.
Wear and maintain all required company-issued personal protective equipment (PPE), including freezer suits, gloves, boots, and headwear.
Meet or exceed established productivity and accuracy standards for order picking, loading, and other key performance indicators (KPIs).
Communicate effectively with team members, leads, and supervisors regarding operational status, challenges, and safety concerns.
Sort and handle inbound pallets, breaking them down as needed for put-away into the racking system.
Ensure all pallets leaving the facility are properly labeled with shipping information and meet customer-specific requirements.
Participate actively in daily pre-shift meetings to review safety topics, performance goals, and daily work assignments.
Diligently complete all required paperwork and system transactions accurately and in a timely manner.

Secondary Functions

Assist in the training and onboarding of new warehouse associates on safety protocols and operational procedures.
Perform general housekeeping duties, such as sweeping, removing debris, and maintaining clear aisles and dock areas.
Support other departments and perform miscellaneous duties as assigned by the warehouse supervisor or manager.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing safety, quality, and productivity within the warehouse.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Material Handling Equipment (MHE) Operation: Experience operating electric pallet jacks, stand-up forklifts, or reach trucks. Certification is a significant plus.
RF Scanner / WMS Experience: Proficiency in using handheld RF scanners and familiarity with Warehouse Management Systems (e.g., SAP, Manhattan, JDA).
Order Selection: Proven ability to accurately pick orders using pick lists, voice-directed systems, or RF devices.
Basic Mathematical Skills: Ability to perform simple addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division for counting and inventory verification.
Knowledge of Safety Protocols: Understanding of warehouse safety standards, including OSHA regulations and food safety (GMP/HACCP) principles.
Loading and Unloading: Skill in properly loading and unloading trailers to ensure product stability and safety.

Soft Skills

Physical Stamina & Strength: Ability to consistently lift 50-75 lbs and withstand prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, and lifting in a cold environment.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous in ensuring order accuracy, correct product handling, and precise inventory counts.
Reliability and Punctuality: A strong work ethic with a proven track record of dependability and consistent attendance.
Adaptability: Ability to tolerate and work effectively in extreme cold temperatures for an entire shift.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Capable of working cooperatively with colleagues and supervisors to achieve team goals.
Time Management: Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment to meet deadlines and productivity targets.
Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying and reporting issues related to safety, quality, or equipment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

N/A

Relevant Fields of Study:
N/A

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 6+ months of experience in a warehouse, distribution, manufacturing, or similar physically demanding role.

Preferred: 1+ year of experience working directly in a freezer or cold storage distribution environment. Previous certification on forklifts or electric pallet jacks is highly desirable.