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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for General Worker

💰 $16 - $24 per hour

General LaborManufacturingLogisticsWarehouseEntry-Level

🎯 Role Definition

We are actively seeking a dependable, physically adept, and motivated General Worker to become a vital part of our operational team. As a General Worker, you will be the engine of our daily activities, performing a diverse range of manual tasks that ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of our production floor, warehouse, or job site. This role is perfect for a proactive and hardworking individual who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and is eager to contribute to the success of the team. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and build a solid foundation for your career, we encourage you to apply.


📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • No formal work experience required
  • High School or GED Graduate
  • Temporary or seasonal labor positions

Advancement To:

  • Specialized Machine Operator
  • Team Leader or Shift Supervisor
  • Quality Control Inspector
  • Forklift Operator (Certified)

Lateral Moves:

  • Warehouse Associate
  • Shipping and Receiving Clerk
  • Maintenance Assistant

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Safely and efficiently load and unload materials, finished products, and equipment from trucks, pallets, and storage racks, ensuring proper handling techniques to prevent damage or injury.
  • Operate basic industrial equipment such as pallet jacks, dollies, and hand trucks to move supplies and goods to their designated locations within the facility.
  • Perform assembly line tasks as assigned, which may include sorting, packing, assembling components, and boxing finished goods according to specific instructions.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment by regularly sweeping floors, removing debris, disposing of waste materials, and organizing tools and supplies.
  • Strictly adhere to all company health and safety (H&S) policies and procedures, including the consistent and correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
  • Assist skilled tradespeople and machine operators by fetching tools, holding materials in place, and performing other supportive tasks to maximize efficiency and workflow.
  • Conduct basic visual quality control inspections on raw materials and finished products, identifying and reporting any defects, damages, or inconsistencies to the shift supervisor.
  • Accurately count, sort, and stack goods and materials, ensuring proper inventory management and record-keeping as directed.
  • Operate various hand tools (e.g., hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches) and power tools (e.g., drills, grinders, saws) under supervision, following all operational safety protocols.
  • Prepare products for shipment by wrapping, packaging, and labeling items according to shipping specifications and customer orders.
  • Monitor production machinery for any obvious malfunctions or jams, and promptly report any operational issues to the maintenance team or supervisor.
  • Follow detailed verbal and written instructions from supervisors and team leaders to ensure tasks are completed accurately, on time, and to the required standard.
  • Move raw materials from storage areas to the production line to ensure a continuous and uninterrupted manufacturing process.
  • Dismantle and clean machinery and equipment at the end of a shift or production run as part of routine maintenance and sanitation procedures.
  • Assist in the setup and takedown of workstations, temporary structures, or equipment for specific projects or production runs.
  • Dig trenches, backfill holes, or compact earth to prepare job sites in a construction or outdoor setting.
  • Mix, pour, and spread materials such as concrete, plaster, or asphalt using hand tools as part of a construction or maintenance crew.
  • Signal to equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of machinery, equipment, and materials.
  • Securely fasten materials to structures using bolts, nails, or screws, ensuring stability and adherence to design specifications.
  • Perform general site cleanup duties, including gathering and separating recyclable materials and disposing of hazardous waste in designated containers.

Secondary Functions

  • Participate in routine inventory counts, cycle counts, and full stock-taking activities to help maintain accurate inventory records.
  • Assist with minor facility maintenance tasks, such as painting, changing light bulbs, or performing simple repairs, as directed by the facilities manager.
  • Provide backup support and assistance to other departments during peak operational periods, staff absences, or special projects.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by observing workflows and suggesting practical ways to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Physical Stamina & Strength: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift heavy objects (typically up to 50 lbs), and perform repetitive physical tasks.
  • Hand & Power Tool Proficiency: Basic knowledge of and ability to safely operate common hand tools and power tools.
  • Basic Math & Measurement: Ability to perform simple arithmetic and accurately read a tape measure and other measurement tools.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: A basic understanding of how machinery and equipment works, with the ability to spot operational issues.
  • Forklift/Pallet Jack Operation: Experience operating a manual pallet jack is required; forklift certification is a significant plus.
  • Safety Protocol Adherence: Knowledge of general workplace safety procedures (e.g., LOTO, PPE) and a commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.

Soft Skills

  • Strong Work Ethic: A commitment to being punctual, reliable, and putting in a solid effort every day.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively and cooperatively with a diverse team to achieve common goals.
  • Verbal Communication: The capacity to listen to, understand, and follow instructions clearly from supervisors and colleagues.
  • Adaptability & Flexibility: Willingness to take on a variety of tasks and adapt to changing priorities and work environments.
  • Attention to Detail: The ability to perform tasks with accuracy and thoroughness, particularly when conducting quality checks or handling products.
  • Problem-Solving: The initiative to identify issues as they arise and either resolve them or report them to the appropriate person.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate from a vocational or trade school in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Not Applicable

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-2 years

Preferred: 6+ months of prior experience in a similar environment such as a manufacturing plant, distribution center, construction site, or general labor position is highly advantageous.