Order Picker Jobs in Canada 2025 – Apply Now

Order picker positions are integral to the logistics and warehousing sectors in Canada, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of goods. These roles are crucial to the smooth functioning of supply chains, especially in fast-paced environments. Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce or considering a career transition, order picker jobs offer numerous opportunities, benefits, and room for career advancement.

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What is an Order Picker?

An order picker (sometimes referred to as a stock picker) is a warehouse worker who is responsible for selecting and preparing items for shipment based on customer orders. Order pickers use various equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and handheld scanners to retrieve merchandise from shelves or storage areas in large warehouses or distribution centers.

Order pickers play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of the logistics and supply chain process. Without them, we would severely disrupt the timely delivery of products to customers.

Key Responsibilities of Order Pickers in Canada:

Order pickers are responsible for various tasks within warehouses, distribution centers, and retail settings. Some of their key responsibilities include

1. Picking and Packing Orders
   Order pickers are tasked with gathering the required products from warehouse shelves based on customer orders, ensuring that the items are correct and undamaged. They then pack these items securely for shipping, adhering to packaging guidelines.
2. Using Equipment
   Many order pickers are trained to operate warehouse equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and voice-directed picking systems. They may also use handheld barcode scanners or RFID systems to ensure items are correctly identified and retrieved.
3. Maintaining Inventory Accuracy
   Order pickers must maintain a high level of accuracy in inventory management, ensuring that all products are correctly recorded and that stock levels are properly updated.
4. Collaboration with Other Team Members
   Order pickers often work as part of a larger warehouse team, collaborating with supervisors, managers, and other staff to ensure smooth operations. Communication is essential to keep everything on track and ensure deadlines are met.
5. Adhering to Safety Regulations
   Working in a warehouse environment involves potential hazards, so order pickers must follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries. This includes wearing appropriate protective gear, operating machinery safely, and adhering to health and safety guidelines.
6. Physical Tasks
   The role is physically demanding, requiring workers to lift and move heavy items, sometimes up to 50-75 pounds. Physical stamina and strength are crucial for success in this role.

Key Skills and Qualifications for Order Picker Jobs:

To be successful in an order picker role, individuals need to have specific skills and qualifications, including:

• Physical Stamina and Strength
  Order pickers are required to repeatedly lift, carry, and move items. As such, having adequate physical stamina is crucial to handle the demands of the job.
• Attention to Detail
  Accuracy is paramount. Even a small mistake in picking or packing items can lead to delays, customer dissatisfaction, or even financial loss. Order pickers need to be highly meticulous in ensuring that each order is correct.
• Organizational Skills
  Order pickers need to stay organized in a fast-paced environment. They must be able to prioritize tasks efficiently and manage time effectively, especially when faced with tight deadlines.
• Technical Proficiency
  Familiarity with warehouse equipment (e.g., forklifts, pallet jacks) and technology (e.g., barcode scanners, voice picking systems) is often required. Some positions may require prior experience with warehouse management systems (WMS).
• Communication and Teamwork
  Order pickers often work as part of a team, so being able to communicate effectively and collaborate with others is important.
• High School Diploma
  While not always required, most employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent education. Some companies may offer training to employees without previous experience in the field.

Types of Order Picker Jobs in Canada:

Order picker jobs come in several categories depending on the type of business and the specific tasks involved. Here are some common types of order picker positions in Canada:

1. Warehouse Order Picker
   These workers are responsible for collecting and packaging products from large warehouses or distribution centers. The job often involves operating forklifts and other heavy machinery to retrieve items from high storage areas.
2. Retail Order Picker
   In retail environments, order pickers are responsible for selecting products in response to customer orders. These jobs often involve working directly with inventory systems and maintaining stock levels in stores.
3. E-Commerce Order Picker
   With the growth of online shopping, many order picker positions are available within e-commerce fulfillment centers. These positions involve gathering products for shipping to individual customers based on online orders.
4. Food and Beverage Order Picker
   In the food and beverage industry, order pickers handle products like canned goods, frozen foods, or beverages, ensuring proper storage and shipment of perishable goods. This role may require knowledge of food safety and temperature-controlled environments.
5. Pharmaceutical Order Picker
   Order pickers in pharmaceutical companies handle drugs and medical supplies. These positions often require knowledge of regulations and safety protocols related to handling and storing sensitive products.

Benefits of Working as an Order Picker in Canada:

Working as an order picker in Canada comes with numerous advantages, including

1. Competitive Wages
   The average wage for order pickers in Canada is around $33,316 annually, or $17.09 per hour. Pay may vary based on location, experience, and industry. Overtime pay can increase earnings, especially during peak seasons like holidays.
2. Job Security
   With the expanding logistics and warehousing sectors in Canada, the demand for order pickers remains high, providing job stability and opportunities for advancement.
3. Health and Safety Standards
   Canadian employers prioritize worker safety, adhering to strict health and safety regulations. Employees can expect a safe working environment with necessary protective equipment and regular safety training.
4. Career Growth
   Order pickers can advance to supervisory or managerial positions, particularly with experience and additional training. Many employers offer opportunities for promotion within the company.
5. Flexible Hours
   Many order picker jobs offer flexible shifts, which can be a significant benefit for individuals seeking a work schedule that accommodates personal or family needs.
6. Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Pathways
   Many Canadian employers offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers, providing opportunities for those wishing to immigrate to Canada. Additionally, Canada’s skilled worker immigration programs often include order picker jobs.
7. Health Benefits and Retirement Plans
   Some employers offer additional benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings plans.
8. Physical Activity
   The role involves physical work, which can be beneficial for those who prefer an active job. It also provides a break from the typical sedentary office environment.

How to Apply for Order Picker Jobs in Canada?

Applying for an order picker position in Canada involves several steps. Here’s a straightforward guide to assist you:

1. Update Your Resume
   Ensure that your resume highlights relevant experience, particularly in warehouse work, handling equipment, and physical tasks. If you have previous experience with forklifts or inventory management systems, be sure to mention it.
2. Search for Job Openings
   Job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn are great places to find order picker jobs in Canada. Many companies also post job openings on their websites.
3. Submit Your Application
   Once you’ve found a position that interests you, submit your resume and application. Tailor your cover letter to explain why you’re a good fit for the role, emphasizing your organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.
4. Prepare for Interviews
   Be ready to discuss your physical stamina, teamwork abilities, and previous experience in related fields. Employers may ask situational questions to gauge how you handle challenges in the workplace, such as tight deadlines or inventory issues.
5. Consider Training
   Some employers offer on-the-job training to help you get familiar with the equipment and systems used in their warehouses. Be open to learning new skills and improving your qualifications.

Conclusion:

Order picker positions in Canada offer an accessible entry point into the logistics and warehousing sectors, with strong demand, competitive wages, and opportunities for growth. By enhancing your skills, obtaining relevant experience, and following the application steps, you can increase your chances of success in this vital role.

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