Equipment Operator Safety Instructor

Primary Function

The Equipment Operator Safety Instructor provides training to internal and external Gregory Poole customers on the safety and effective operation of lift trucks. The role is also responsible for selling training programs and materials to external customers.


This position will cover all NC/SC lift branches and require travel.

Essential Duties

Training Delivery & Operator Instruction

• Deliver classroom and hands-on forklift operator training programs for internal and external customers
• Facilitate training sessions on lift truck safety, equipment operation, and manufacturer operating procedures
• Demonstrate equipment operating procedures and observe students during practical exercises
• Lead class discussions focused on workplace safety, operational best practices, and balanced group participation
• Administer written and practical evaluations and prepare performance assessments for trainees

Training Program Coordination & Development

• Assess operator training needs through collaboration with management, employees, and customers
• Prepare and coordinate training schedules based on customer requests, instructor availability, and equipment resources
• Identify performance gaps and recommend training solutions to improve operator effectiveness and safety compliance
• Maintain training records, attendance rosters, certifications, and related documentation
• Participate in meetings, seminars, and continuing education to remain current on equipment operation and safety standards

Customer Support & Relationship Management

• Build and maintain professional relationships with internal and external customers
• Address customer concerns and coordinate issue resolution in accordance with company policies
• Serve as liaison between customers and management to communicate training needs and service concerns
• Follow up with customers to ensure satisfaction with training services provided
• Promote a professional image and maintain company property in accordance with company standards

Sales & Business Development

• Contact existing and prospective customers to promote refresher training and additional training opportunities
• Conduct phone outreach, cold calls, and customer visits to generate training business
• Negotiate pricing for training programs while maintaining profitability objectives
• Promote vendor and company training programs and communicate available training solutions to customers
• Maintain current knowledge of vendor products, training materials, and industry developments to support sales efforts

Administrative & Operational Support

• Ensure training equipment, materials, facilities, and resources are prepared and available for scheduled classes
• Maintain accurate records of business expenses and submit required documentation within established deadlines
• Utilize company systems and reporting tools to support scheduling, documentation, and operational tracking
• Attend required company meetings, sales training, and development programs
• Maintain assigned company vehicles, equipment, and property in clean and serviceable condition

Minimum Requirements

Education

High school diploma; Associates/ bachelor's degree preferred in equipment technology trades, education or business.

Work Experience

• 2-5+ years equipment operational experience.
• 2+ years of training/educating others on equipment operations.

Physical

• Must perform responsibilities either in an office environment or in the field visiting and working at customer job sites.
• Must be able to drive up to 20,000 miles annually.
• While performing the job duties must regularly use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoops, kneels, crouches, or crawls; and talks or hears, as well as stands, walks and sits.
• Must regularly lift and or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities require close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Works near moving mechanical parts and frequently works in outside weather conditions and is exposed to cold, hot, wet, and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles.
• The noise level in the work environment may be very loud.
• Requires normal eyesight to read and interpret technical information, as well as hearing and speaking ability to communicate with personnel with GPLS; and those employed by our customers.
• The ability to distinguish color is desired, but not necessary.

Other

• Ability to read, interpret, and apply safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance manuals, and procedural documents.
• Ability to prepare routine reports, correspondence, and training documentation.
• Ability to effectively present information and communicate with customers, employees, and groups.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, ratios, and interpretation of graphs and charts.
• Ability to apply sound reasoning and common sense to carry out written, verbal, and diagram-based instructions.
• Ability to analyze problems involving multiple variables and determine appropriate solutions in standardized situations.
• Valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Proficient PC and computer software skills with the ability to perform research, maintain records, and communicate electronically.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and represent the company positively with customers and employees.

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive. Your supervisor may request and assign you similar duties. Any major modifications to this job require Human Resources approval.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vets/IWD. Gregory Poole Equipment Company is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Gregory Poole Equipment Company is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.