Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Reach Operator

🎯 Role Definition

The Reach Operator is a critical member of the warehouse operations team, responsible for the efficient and safe movement of goods within the facility. This role specializes in operating a high-reach forklift to perform tasks such as order picking, stock replenishment, and put-away in narrow-aisle, high-bay racking systems. The ideal candidate ensures inventory accuracy and contributes to the overall productivity and safety of the distribution center.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Warehouse Associate
Order Picker
Pallet Jack Operator

Advancement To:

Warehouse Team Lead
Inventory Control Specialist
Warehouse Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

Counterbalance Forklift Operator
Shipping and Receiving Clerk

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Safely and efficiently operate a stand-up reach truck in a fast-paced warehouse environment to move, locate, and stack products at various heights.
Perform order-pulling, staging, and replenishment tasks with precision, ensuring the right products and quantities are moved to the correct locations.
Accurately execute the put-away process for inbound inventory, scanning and placing products into designated high-bay storage locations to optimize warehouse space.
Utilize a handheld Radio Frequency (RF) scanner to accurately record all product movements and transactions within the Warehouse Management System (WMS).
Conduct daily pre-shift and post-shift safety inspections of the reach truck and associated equipment, reporting any defects, malfunctions, or maintenance needs immediately.
Load and unload palletized freight from trailers and containers, ensuring proper weight distribution and the securing of loads for safe transport.
Maintain a strict and unwavering adherence to all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and best practices for powered industrial truck operation.
Participate actively in cycle counting and physical inventory programs to maintain a high level of inventory accuracy and assist in investigating discrepancies.
Replenish primary picking locations from bulk storage to ensure a consistent availability of product for order selectors and prevent operational downtime.
Carefully inspect pallets and products for any damage or quality issues, reporting and documenting findings according to established quality control procedures.
Consolidate partial pallets into full pallets to maximize storage efficiency and maintain a tidy and organized warehouse environment.
Ensure all aisles, staging areas, and work zones are kept clean, clear of debris, and organized to prevent safety hazards and improve operational flow.
Read and interpret work orders, pick tickets, and put-away directives to determine items to be moved, gathered, or distributed throughout the facility.
Wrap loaded pallets securely with stretch wrap, either manually or by machine, to secure contents for stable storage or shipment.
Communicate effectively with supervisors, inventory control staff, and other warehouse associates to coordinate tasks, report progress, and resolve operational issues.
Adhere to First-In, First-Out (FIFO) or other inventory rotation policies as required for specific products to maintain product integrity.
Strive to meet or exceed established productivity and quality standards (Key Performance Indicators - KPIs) for tasks such as picks per hour and put-away accuracy.
Operate the reach truck with exceptional control and spatial awareness in narrow aisles and at heights often exceeding 30 feet.
Assist in training new operators on equipment operation, safety protocols, and general warehouse procedures as directed by a supervisor.
Perform general warehouse duties as needed, including manual lifting, sorting, and housekeeping, to support overall team objectives and operational needs.
Verify crucial product information, such as SKU numbers, lot numbers, and expiration dates, during all material handling activities to ensure data integrity.
Properly charge and maintain the batteries for the reach truck and other material handling equipment according to company and manufacturer guidelines.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Certified Reach Truck Operation: Proven experience and valid certification to operate a stand-up reach truck.
RF Scanner Proficiency: Competency in using handheld RF scanning devices for inventory transactions.
WMS Experience: Familiarity with Warehouse Management Systems (e.g., Manhattan, JDA/Blue Yonder, SAP EWM).
Basic Math Skills: Ability to perform simple arithmetic for counting, verifying quantities, and tracking inventory.
-Material Handling Equipment (MHE) Knowledge: Experience with other equipment like electric pallet jacks, order pickers, and counterbalance forklifts is a plus.
OSHA Safety Standards: A strong understanding of workplace safety rules and regulations for warehouse environments.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: Meticulous in checking SKUs, quantities, and locations to ensure accuracy and prevent errors.
Spatial Awareness & Depth Perception: Excellent ability to judge distances and heights to navigate narrow aisles and place pallets precisely in high racks.
Safety-First Mindset: A constant and proactive focus on safe operations for oneself and fellow team members.
Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and work efficiently to meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
Physical Stamina: Capable of standing for long periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, and performing repetitive tasks.
Independent Work Ethic: The ability to work diligently and effectively with minimal direct supervision.
Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication with team members and supervisors.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Preferred Education:

Vocational training or certification in Logistics or Forklift Operation.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Logistics
Supply Chain Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of direct experience operating a stand-up reach truck in a warehouse or distribution environment.

Preferred: 3+ years of reach truck experience within a high-volume, fast-paced distribution center.