Forklift Operator

Job Title: Material Handler / Side Loader Operator Job Description
The Material Handler / Side Loader Operator safely operates a 30,000lb capacity side loader and sit-down forklift to move small and large metal materials throughout a fast-paced steel manufacturing facility. This role supports production by staging materials, loading machines, and maintaining an efficient material flow while consistently prioritizing safety.
Responsibilities

• Operate a 30,000lb capacity side loader to transport small and large metal materials throughout the facility in a safe and controlled manner.
• Use a sit-down forklift to move, load, and unload materials, ensuring secure and accurate handling at all times.
• Stage materials for production lines and machines to support continuous and efficient manufacturing operations.
• Load machines with the correct metal materials according to production needs and instructions.
• Measure and verify materials using a tape measure to ensure accuracy before staging or loading.
• Maintain an organized material flow throughout the warehouse and manufacturing areas to minimize delays and bottlenecks.
• Follow all safety procedures and best practices while working around large pieces of steel, metal, copper, and brass.
• Inspect equipment before use and report any issues or safety concerns to the appropriate personnel.
• Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a strong focus on safety and quality.
• Collaborate with production and warehouse teams to ensure materials are available where and when they are needed.

Essential Skills

• Experience working in a warehouse environment.
• Hands-on experience operating a sit-down forklift.
• Ability to safely operate heavy material handling equipment such as a 30,000lb capacity side loader.
• Strong commitment to safety and safe work practices.
• Ability to use a tape measure accurately to verify material dimensions.
• Capability to work effectively in a fast-paced metal manufacturing setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in a steel or metal manufacturing facility is highly beneficial.
• Comfort working around large pieces of steel, metal, copper, and brass.
• Ability to remain focused and detail-oriented while handling heavy materials and equipment.

Why Work Here?
You will join a company that invests in long-term career growth, offering promotion from within and plenty of room to advance. Employees benefit from comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as a 401(k) plan to support their financial future. The workplace culture recognizes and rewards individual achievement with monthly steak lunches for meeting goals and quarterly employee appreciation lunches, creating a supportive and motivating environment.
Work Environment
This role is based in a steel manufacturing facility where you will work around large pieces of steel, metal, copper, and brass. Safety is the top priority, and strict adherence to safety procedures is expected at all times. The facility is non-climate controlled, so temperatures may vary with the seasons. The position operates on a first shift schedule, typically from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cartersville, GA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $18.00/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 Cartersville,GA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 1, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.


Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.