Forklift Operator

Entry Level Forklift Operator

This role focuses on safely operating a stand-up forklift and handling materials in a large, clean, and organized distribution center. You will build customized pallets of canned and dry goods for shipment to grocery stores and retailers, using a headset-directed system to pick, pack, and stage orders accurately in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate a stand-up forklift safely and efficiently throughout a large distribution center.
• Pick canned and dry goods from designated locations based on headset-directed instructions.
• Pack and build customized pallets according to specific client and store orders.
• Move between warehouse locations on the forklift to gather all required products for each order.
• Ensure pallets are properly stacked, wrapped, and prepared for shipment to grocery stores and retailers.
• Follow headset instructions to maintain accuracy in product selection, quantities, and locations.

Essential Skills

• Experience operating a stand-up forklift, with at least 6 months of forklift experience preferred.
• If forklift experience is less than 6 months, at least 1 year of experience working in a fast-paced warehouse environment.
• Ability to stand on your feet for 810 hours per day.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds repetitively throughout the shift.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced production and distribution setting.
• Strong attention to detail when picking, packing, and building pallets.
• Ability to follow verbal instructions delivered through a headset system.
• Reliability and consistency in attendance and performance.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in order picking, packing, or general labor in a warehouse or distribution center.
• Familiarity with pallet building for grocery or retail customers.
• Comfort operating material handling equipment in a large facility.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to headset-directed picking technology.

Work Environment

You will work in a large, climate-controlled distribution center that is very clean and well organized. The facility uses stand-up forklifts and headset-directed picking technology to guide you through the warehouse. Shifts require standing for extended periods and performing repetitive lifting up to 50 pounds. The environment is fast-paced and production-oriented, with a strong emphasis on safety, organization, and teamwork.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Eldridge, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $17.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision; Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital; 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available; Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents); Short and long-term disability; Health Spending Account (HSA); Transportation benefits; Employee Assistance Program; Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave).

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 3, 2026.