So, you're curious about how much a Sysco order selector makes? That's a great question, and understanding the compensation for this vital role involves looking at several factors. Sysco, as a global leader in foodservice distribution, relies heavily on its warehouse team, and order selectors are at the heart of that operation. Let's break down what you can expect!
Step 1: Discovering the Average Sysco Order Selector Salary
Let's get right to it! What's the ballpark figure for a Sysco order selector's earnings?
Understanding the Numbers: National Averages
As of July 2025, the average annual pay for a Sysco Warehouse Order Selector in the United States is around $63,561 a year. If we break that down:
Hourly: Approximately $30.56 an hour * Weekly: About $1,222/week
Monthly: Roughly $5,296/month
It's important to note that these are averages, and actual earnings can vary. Some sources show a slightly lower average, closer to $37,187 per year, or about $17.88 per hour. This variation often comes down to how the data is collected and what's included (like overtime and incentives).
Why the difference? Some data sources might primarily focus on base pay, while others incorporate overtime and performance incentives, which can significantly boost an order selector's take-home pay.
How Sysco Compares to the National Average
Sysco's warehouse order selector salaries tend to be higher than the national average for general warehouse order selector jobs. For instance, the average annual salary for Sysco Warehouse Order Selector jobs can be 47.2%, or $24,263, above the national average for Warehouse Order Selector jobs. This suggests Sysco offers competitive compensation in the industry.
Step 2: Factors Influencing Sysco Order Selector Pay
While the averages give us a good starting point, several elements can significantly impact how much an individual Sysco order selector earns.
Sub-heading 2.1: Location, Location, Location ️
Just like real estate, where you work matters! Salaries can vary greatly depending on the cost of living and demand in a particular region or city. For example, some of the highest-paying cities for Sysco Order Selectors include:
Nome, AK: ~$46,131 annually ($22.18/hour)
Berkeley, CA: ~$45,534 annually ($21.89/hour)
Sitka, AK: ~$44,799 annually ($21.54/hour)
Wyoming, WY: ~$44,351 annually ($21.32/hour)
Fremont, CA: ~$44,068 annually ($21.19/hour)
Conversely, wages in other areas might be lower due to different market dynamics.
Sub-heading 2.2: Experience and Performance Incentives
Your experience level can play a role, but perhaps even more critical are performance incentives. Many Sysco order selector roles offer opportunities to earn more based on:
Production bonuses: This is often tied to how many cases you pick per hour, or your overall efficiency rating. The more efficient and accurate you are, the more you can earn. Some positions advertise the potential to earn up to $80,000 or even $90,000 per year when including base pay, overtime, and incentives.
Overtime opportunities: Warehouse work often involves overtime, especially during peak seasons. This extra work at an increased hourly rate can significantly boost annual earnings.
Skill and proficiency: Having prior experience with equipment like electric pallet jacks or forklifts can be a plus, though Sysco often provides on-the-job training.
Sub-heading 2.3: Type of Warehouse (Dry, Cooler, Freezer) ❄️
Sysco warehouses typically have different sections: dry goods, coolers, and freezers. Working in the cooler or freezer sections might come with a higher hourly wage or additional incentives due to the more challenging working conditions (extreme temperatures).
Step 3: What Does a Sysco Order Selector Do?
Understanding the job itself helps to appreciate the compensation. It's a physically demanding but critical role in the foodservice supply chain.
Core Responsibilities
A Sysco order selector's primary responsibility is to accurately and efficiently pick and palletize customer orders for delivery to various foodservice venues (restaurants, schools, hospitals, etc.). This involves:
Operating power equipment: This typically includes electric pallet jacks, and sometimes forklifts.
Reading and understanding inventory sheets/pick lists: Ensuring the correct products and quantities are selected.
Lifting and moving cases: Products can range in weight from 10 lbs to 75 lbs frequently, and up to 100 lbs occasionally, requiring continuous lifting to various heights.
Organizing and stacking products: Building stable and safe pallets to prevent product damage during transit.
Working in various temperatures: This includes dry warehouse environments, refrigerated coolers, and often freezing conditions.
Adhering to safety protocols: Maintaining a clean and safe work area, and reporting any unsafe conditions.
The Physical Demands
This isn't a desk job! Order selectors are on their feet for 10-12 hours daily, constantly bending, stooping, reaching, pushing, pulling, and twisting. It requires a high level of endurance, energy, and strength.
Step 4: The Path to Becoming a Sysco Order Selector ️
Think you have what it takes? Here's a general guide on how to pursue this role.
Sub-heading 4.1: Meeting the Basic Requirements ✅
Sysco emphasizes that no college degree or previous warehouse experience is typically required for an entry-level order selector position. However, there are some fundamental requirements:
Age: Must be at least 18 years of age.
Physical Ability: Must be able to perform the demanding physical tasks described above (lifting, bending, working long hours on feet, handling various temperatures).
Work Experience (Preferred): While not always mandatory, 0-1 year of relevant work experience is often preferred. This could include other physically active jobs, military experience, or prior warehouse roles.
Equipment Experience (Preferred): 1 year of experience operating an electric pallet jack or forklift is a significant "nice-to-have" but on-the-job training is often provided.
Sub-heading 4.2: The Application and Interview Process
Applying for a Sysco order selector role typically involves:
Online Application: Most applications are submitted through Sysco's careers website.
Interview: This could involve a phone screening followed by an in-person interview. Be prepared to discuss your physical capabilities, your understanding of warehouse safety, and your ability to work in varying conditions and flexible hours.
On-the-Job Training: Sysco is known for offering comprehensive on-the-job training, especially for new hires, to ensure you're proficient with equipment and procedures.
Sub-heading 4.3: Career Growth Opportunities at Sysco 煮
Becoming an order selector isn't necessarily a dead-end job. Sysco offers avenues for career progression:
Entry-Level Order Selector
Lead or Team Lead Role: Taking on more responsibility in guiding other selectors.
Supervisory or Management Positions: Such as Warehouse Supervisor or Operations Manager.
Other Warehouse/Logistics Roles: Opportunities in inventory management, shipping/receiving, or even transitioning into truck driving.
Sysco provides a comprehensive benefits package, which often includes medical, dental, and prescription plans, life and disability insurance, 401(k) and Employee Stock Purchase programs, and pre-tax savings opportunities.
Step 5: Tips for Success as a Sysco Order Selector ⭐
To maximize your earnings and longevity in this role, consider these tips:
Sub-heading 5.1: Master Efficiency and Accuracy
"Don't move fast, BE fast." This means focusing on smart movements, minimizing unnecessary steps, and knowing where your next case goes before you even pick it up.
Consistency is Key: Aim for a steady, consistent pace throughout your shift rather than burning out early.
Stacking Smarts: Learn proper palletizing techniques to build stable loads efficiently. This prevents damage and re-work.
Minimize Errors: Accuracy in picking is crucial. Errors lead to wasted time and customer dissatisfaction.
Sub-heading 5.2: Prioritize Safety and Well-being ⛑️
Follow SyscoSafe Methods: Always adhere to established safety protocols, especially when operating power equipment. Report any unsafe conditions immediately.
Take Breaks: Even short breaks can help with mental and physical recovery.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Given the physical demands, proper hydration and nutrition are vital.
Dress Appropriately: For extreme temperatures, proper layering is essential.
Sub-heading 5.3: Adaptability and Communication ️
Embrace Temperature Changes: Be prepared to work in varied temperature zones.
Communicate Effectively: Clear communication with supervisors and teammates is important for smooth operations.
Problem-Solving: Be ready to troubleshoot minor issues and adapt to changing order demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to calculate a Sysco order selector's average hourly pay?
To estimate hourly pay, divide the average annual salary by 2080 (40 hours/week * 52 weeks/year). For instance, $63,561 / 2080 hours = ~$30.56/hour.
How to maximize earnings as a Sysco order selector?
Focus on improving your picking efficiency and accuracy to capitalize on performance incentives and production bonuses. Also, be open to working overtime when available.
How to prepare for the physical demands of a Sysco order selector job?
Engage in regular physical activity that builds strength, endurance, and flexibility. This includes lifting weights, cardio, and stretching.
How to get hired as a Sysco order selector without prior warehouse experience?
Highlight any past physically demanding jobs, demonstrate a strong work ethic, and express eagerness to learn and be trained on warehouse equipment and procedures during your application and interview.
How to understand the different temperature zones in a Sysco warehouse?
Sysco warehouses typically have dry storage (room temperature), cooler sections (refrigerated for dairy, produce, etc.), and freezer sections (for frozen goods). Be prepared for all.
How to effectively operate an electric pallet jack?
Training is provided, but familiarization with basic controls, safety procedures, and maneuvering techniques for pallet jacks will be covered during your on-the-job training.
How to move up in a Sysco warehouse?
Demonstrate consistent high performance, a positive attitude, leadership potential, and a willingness to learn new skills. Express your interest in career progression to your supervisors.
How to manage working long shifts as a Sysco order selector?
Pace yourself, take scheduled breaks, stay hydrated, and ensure you get adequate rest outside of work.
How to ensure accuracy when picking orders?
Pay close attention to detail, double-check item numbers and quantities against your pick list, and ensure products are correctly labeled and placed on the pallet.
How to deal with the fast-paced environment of a Sysco warehouse?
Develop a strong sense of urgency, maintain focus, and learn efficient picking strategies. Good time management and organizational skills are key.
