What they do
Storepersons monitor and control the flow of goods into and out of warehouses and other storage facilities. They check goods on arrival and before despatch, ensuring they have the right products, in the correct quantity and that there is no damage. Storepersons may use a forklift to assist in loading and unloading trucks and moving goods around the warehouse for storage. They also record when goods arrived and their exact location in the warehouse. When goods are to be shipped, a storeperson can check these records to retrieve the goods from storage, ensuring that the oldest products are the first to be shipped out.
Working conditions
Storepersons work in warehouses and other storage facilities, such as the stockroom of a department store or wholesale outlet, throughout Western Australia, though the majority of employment opportunities are in the Perth metropolitan area. The work can be very physical and involves a large amount of bending and lifting heavy weights. Storepersons must follow occupational health and safety guidelines in order to minimise the risk of causing themselves serious injuries. The hours of work can vary greatly depending on the employer. Some warehouses operate 24 hours a day, so storepersons may be required to work shifts, which can include working nights and on weekends. Storepersons working in retail or wholesale outlets typically start work early, before the store opens to the public, and may finish in the early afternoon.
Tools and technologies
Storepersons use forklifts, pallet jacks and trolleys to move goods around the warehouse and some storage facilities may also have automated machinery for this. Storepersons often stack goods on pallets or in cages for transport, using tape, strapping or cling film to secure the load. Computers and other electronic equipment, including barcode scanners and portable visual display units, are often used to record stock levels and exact storage locations. Paper records are also common and may be used as a checklist when goods arrive and are despatched. Safety clothing has as high visibility vests and steel-capped boots are also usually required.
How do I become one?
Education and training
It is possible to work as a storeperson without any formal qualifications and get training on the job. However, entry into this occupation may be improved by obtaining a qualification in warehousing operations or logistics.
The Certificate II and III in Warehousing Operations and Certificate II and III in Logistics are offered at TAFE colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Western Australia. Browse courses through Jobs and Skills WA and search on the My Skills website to find a registered provider near you.
You can also undertake a traineeship in warehousing operations (level 2 and level 3) or logistics operations (level 2 and level 3). The traineeships usually take between 12 and 24 months to complete, and the level 2 traineeships are available as school-based traineeships.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.
Required registration and licensing
To work as a storeperson in Western Australia you may need to obtain a High Risk Work Licence from WorkSafe to operate a forklift.