What Does an Order Picker Do at Costco?

An order picker at Costco is a key player in the warehouse operations of this retail giant. But what exactly does their role entail? In this article, we delve into the day-to-day responsibilities, required skills, and opportunities for growth for an order picker at Costco.

The Role of an Order Picker at Costco

The primary role of an order picker at Costco is to pull merchandise from stock for high-volume Business Centre orders. This involves assembling orders by selecting items from floor stock, ensuring the correct items and quantities are pulled, and checking the condition of the items. Other tasks include operating manual pallet jacks to transport pallets through the warehouse, loading items onto flat carts or pallets, and packing cooler and freezer items in coolers.

Main Responsibilities of an Order Picker at Costco

An order picker’s responsibilities at Costco are multifaceted. Here are some of the main tasks they are responsible for:

1. Following proper picking department procedures for performance of duties and paperwork.
2. Lifting pallets from low stacks and setting them on the floor, then moving them with a manual pallet jack while observing safety and security procedures.
3. Obtaining pick tickets from the control desk and scanning them with a wearable hand scanner to get the number and location of items to pull for an order.
4. Operating a manual pallet jack to transport pallets through the warehouse and selecting items from floor stock to assemble orders, ensuring the correct item and quantity are pulled and that the items are in good condition.
5. Checking the computer to search for any items not found and transferring completed orders to the audit area.
6. Operating a manual pallet jack to move approved completed orders onto trucks for delivery.
7. Following all safety and security procedures.
8. Providing and ensuring prompt and courteous member service.
9. Assisting in other areas of the picking department as needed.

Required Skills and Qualifications

To be an order picker at Costco, you should possess the following skills and qualifications:

1. Education/Training: A high school diploma or GED is preferred.
2. Permits/Licenses/Certifications: Costco Food Safety Certification – Level 1 is required on the first day in the position. Costco Operation of Electric Pallet Jack Certification is an asset.
3. Experience: Stocker experience is preferred.
4. Knowledge/Skills: Math skills are required, and computer skills are preferred.
5. Physical stamina and strength: Order pickers need to be physically fit and able to stand on their feet for long hours.
6. Attention to detail: Ensuring the correct items and quantities are pulled for orders.
7. Customer service skills: Providing prompt and courteous service to members.
8. Teamwork and collaboration: Assisting in other areas of the Picking department as needed.

A Day in the Life of an Order Picker at Costco

A typical day for an order picker at Costco involves working in a large warehouse environment, where they are responsible for fulfilling customer orders by locating and retrieving items from shelves or bins. This often involves heavy lifting, as some items can weigh over 50 pounds. Order pickers may use manual pallet jacks to transport pallets through the warehouse and assemble orders, ensuring the correct items and quantities are pulled. They may also operate materials handling equipment, such as forklifts or electric pallet jacks.

Benefits and Opportunities for Growth

Working as an order picker at Costco offers several benefits and opportunities for growth. Some of the advantages include competitive pay, health insurance benefits, opportunities for advancement, flexible hours, a safe and secure work environment, employee satisfaction, and training and certifications.

The Hiring Process

The hiring process for an order picker at Costco typically consists of several steps, including an online application, phone screening, in-person interview, and pre-employment drug test. The process may take one to six weeks, depending on the position you apply for. Some positions may require applicants to pass an assessment.

In conclusion, an order picker at Costco plays a crucial role in ensuring the accurate and timely assembly of orders, ensuring the quality of items, and maintaining safety and security procedures within the warehouse. They play a vital role in the supply chain, ensuring that Costco’s customers receive the correct products in a timely manner.