Certified Forklift Operator

Job Description

Job Description

About the role

We're looking for a skilled, safety-minded forklift operator to handle heavy and oversized freight at our Brighton warehouse. This isn't standard pallet work: you'll run a high-capacity forklift rated for loads up to 20,000 lbs with 10-foot forks, moving large, awkward, and high-value items in and out of the building. The right person is precise, takes ownership of the warehouse floor, and catches problems before they become claims.

What you'll do

• Safely operate a heavy-duty forklift (20,000 lb capacity, 10 ft forks) to load, unload, move, and stage large and oversized freight
• Load in and load out trucks, including flatbeds, dry vans, and containers, using proper load placement, weight distribution, and securement practices
• Inspect all inbound and outbound freight and accurately report Overages, Shortages, and Damages (OS&D) with counts, notes, and photos, before signing for or releasing freight
• Verify freight against bills of lading, delivery receipts, and work orders
• Organize and maintain the warehouse layout so freight is stored safely, labeled clearly, and easy to locate
• Keep aisles, docks, and staging areas clean, clear, and hazard-free
• Perform daily pre-shift forklift inspections and report any mechanical or safety issues immediately
• Communicate with drivers, dispatch, and the operations team on appointment times, freight condition, and any discrepancies
• Follow all OSHA and company safety procedures, and help keep everyone on the floor safe

What we're looking for

• 3+ years of forklift experience, including heavy-capacity forklifts (15,000 lbs and up strongly preferred)
• Proven experience handling oversized, heavy, or irregular freight with extended forks
• Current forklift operator certification preferred (we will complete site-specific OSHA evaluation and certification on our equipment)
• Solid working knowledge of load-in/load-out procedures and cargo securement
• Experience documenting OS&D and reading bills of lading
• Strong organizational skills and a habit of keeping a tidy, efficient warehouse
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently with minimal supervision
• Professional references required , ideally including a prior warehouse supervisor or manager who can speak to your equipment skills and safety record
• Reliable transportation to Brighton

Nice to have

• Experience with drayage or container freight
• Familiarity with a warehouse management system (WMS) or handheld scanners
• Experience operating other equipment (reach truck, telehandler, overhead crane)

Physical requirements

• Ability to sit on equipment for extended periods and to climb on and off machinery frequently
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs as needed
• Comfortable working in a warehouse environment with seasonal temperature changes, noise, and outdoor dock work
• Good depth perception and situational awareness around trucks, people, and freight