Material Handler/Forklift Operator

Material Handler

This role focuses on safely and efficiently handling materials in a manufacturing warehouse environment using both stand up reach and sit down forklifts. You support production by ensuring raw materials and in-process goods are in the correct locations, while also performing shipping and receiving tasks and using computer systems for label printing and carrier processing.

Responsibilities

• Operate stand up reach forklifts and sit down forklifts to move raw materials, finished goods, and in-process products throughout the facility.
• Work directly with the production team to ensure all raw materials and goods in process are staged in the correct areas to meet production schedules.
• Perform shipping and receiving activities in a warehouse or manufacturing setting, including checking in materials and preparing outbound shipments.
• Process shipments using UPS and FedEx systems, including entering shipment information and generating appropriate documentation.
• Use computer systems to accurately create and print labels for products, pallets, and shipments.
• Load and unload trucks safely and efficiently using forklifts and other material handling equipment.
• Pick and pack products according to work orders and production or shipping requirements.
• Perform cycle counting of inventory to help maintain accurate stock levels and support inventory control processes.
• Use a pallet jack when required, especially in areas where forklifts are not permitted, to move materials to packers or machine operators.
• Follow established warehouse procedures within a manufacturing environment and adhere to all safety and quality guidelines.
• Collaborate with supervisors, team leads, and warehouse teammates to ensure timely movement of product from packaging to shipping.
• Support high-responsibility tasks related to moving product from the packaging department and preparing it for shipment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area and comply with all personal protective equipment requirements, including hair nets, gloves, and beard nets when applicable.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of hands-on experience operating a stand up reach truck.
• At least 6 months of hands-on experience operating a sit down forklift.
• Shipping and receiving experience in a warehouse or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work with computer systems, including UPS and FedEx shipping platforms.
• Demonstrated good work tenure, with more than 1 year in a previous position.
• Proficiency in picking, packing, loading, unloading, and general material handling tasks.
• Experience working in a production or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to follow work orders and support batch mix or similar production processes.
• High School Diploma or GED (required for conversion to permanent employment).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Comfort working in an environment that handles liquid and powdered food-related chemicals.
• Willingness to learn warehouse procedures within a manufacturing setting.
• Openness to training on various types of equipment if not fully experienced upon hire.
• Ability to work effectively in a smaller warehouse team with high responsibility for production support.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when printing labels and processing shipments.
• Reliability and consistency in attendance and job performance.
• Willingness to work either 1st shift (8:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m.) or 2nd shift (2:00 p.m. 10:30 p.m.), as assigned.

Why Work Here?

Employees receive robust benefits and clear opportunities for growth. Medical, dental, and vision coverage are heavily subsidized for employees. Educational assistance and student loan repayment support are available after one year, providing up to a set annual amount. Paid time off increases with tenure, starting with sick and vacation days after three months and growing to two weeks of vacation and additional sick days after one year. Team members gain experience in a specialized manufacturing warehouse environment, receive training on various equipment, and have the chance to advance within the organization.

Work Environment

The facility manufactures and distributes various liquid and powdered chemicals used in the food industry, with products that support well-known food and beverage brands. The environment can have a strong odor, especially on the production floor, while the warehouse area has less odor but still reflects a food-related manufacturing setting. The warehouse operates with a small, close-knit team of approximately 1015 employees per shift overall, with the core warehouse department consisting of about three people supported by supervisors and team leads. This department carries significant responsibility for moving product from packaging and preparing it for shipment. Work is performed on 1st shift (8:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m.) or 2nd shift (2:00 p.m. 10:30 p.m.). Employees use stand up reach forklifts, sit down forklifts, pallet jacks, computer systems, and carrier platforms such as UPS and FedEx. The workplace emphasizes safety and cleanliness, and all employees must wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including hair nets, gloves, and beard nets for those with facial hair.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Downers Grove, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $22.05/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. 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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Downers Grove, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.