What Does a Pick and Pack Worker Do? Job Description & Pay

Growing Demand for Warehouse and Logistics Jobs

Warehouse and logistics jobs are growing fast in the U.S., and it doesn't look like they'll slow down anytime soon. As of mid-2024, around 6.6 million people worked in transportation and warehousing — that's about 1 in every 20 private-sector workers. Out of that, nearly 1.8 million jobs were in warehousing and storage alone.

This boom is mainly because of the rise in online shopping, which has made fast and efficient delivery more important than ever. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of warehouse jobs in 2024 was 34% higher than before the pandemic started in 2020.

Looking ahead, warehouse employment is expected to grow by 13% between 2022 and 2032 — much faster than most other jobs. So, if you're looking for steady work with plenty of opportunities, this is a field worth exploring.

Role and Responsibilities of a Pick and Pack Worker

Pick and pack workers are an important part of any warehouse team. Their main job is to help get customer orders ready by picking the right items from shelves and packing them for shipping. They make sure each order is accurate and well-prepared before it goes out the door.

Here's what a pick and pack worker typically does:

• Pick products: Use an order list or scanner to find and collect the right items from the shelves or pallets.
• Pack and prepare shipments: Carefully place the items in boxes or containers, add any needed protection (like bubble wrap), and seal and label the package for delivery.
• Scan and track items: Use barcode scanners or warehouse software to track what's being packed. This helps keep inventory updated and ensures the right items are sent.
• Check for mistakes: Double-check that the order is correct before packing it up — attention to detail really matters in this role.
• Keep things clean and safe: Help restock shelves, clean the packing area, and follow safety rules in the warehouse.

These jobs are usually fast-paced and involve standing, walking, and lifting for most of the day. While the work can be physically demanding, you don't need a college degree or previous warehouse experience to start. Most people are trained on the job, and as long as you can read labels, follow instructions, and work carefully, you can do well in this role.

Pick and pack workers are a big part of how online orders get to customers quickly and correctly — especially as online shopping continues to grow.

Pay and Job Outlook for Pick and Pack Workers

Pick-and-pack jobs usually pay by the hour. On average, workers in these roles earn around $17 to $18 per hour, which adds up to about $35,000 to $38,000 per year. While the pay might not seem very high, these jobs often come with steady hours, chances for overtime, and basic benefits.

Your exact pay can depend on where you work, which company hires you, and whether you're working day or night shifts. Some busy times, like holiday seasons, may offer higher pay or bonuses.

The good news? These jobs are in high demand and are expected to keep growing in the coming years. Warehouses are always looking for reliable workers, especially with online shopping becoming more popular. This creates a stable work environment with room to grow and move up.

Finding Pick and Pack Jobs

If you're looking for flexible pick-and-pack work without the hassle of long applications, AnyShift makes it easy. The platform connects you with temporary warehouse gigs in your area — whether you want to work for a few hours, a single shift, or a few days a week. Just sign up, browse available shifts, and pick the ones that fit your schedule. It's a great way to earn extra income and gain experience in the logistics world, all on your own terms.

In Summary

Pick-and-pack workers play an important role in making sure online orders are packed and shipped on time. With the rise of online shopping and the steady growth of warehouses, the demand for this job remains strong. While the pay is average — usually around the mid-$30,000 range per year — many people find this kind of work to be a reliable and accessible entry point into the logistics industry.

If you enjoy active, hands-on jobs and want to be part of the fast-moving world of e-commerce, pick-and-pack work could be a great fit.