Forklift Operator / Material Handler

Job Description

Job Description

The forklift operator is responsible for the safe and efficient loading and unloading of material from rail cars and into trucks. This role requires adherence to strict safety, environmental, and operational protocols while ensuring timely product movement to support terminal operations. This position also assists in a variety of routine shipping, receiving, production, and housekeeping tasks including loading and unloading trucks and railcars. Production tasks include material handling, stacking, labeling, and organizing product in accordance with warehouse requirements.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Loading/Unloading Operations:
• Safely load material into trucks and unload material from rail cars.
• Connect and disconnect hoses, operate pumps, and monitor product transfer processes.
• Inspect rail cars and trucks to ensure they meet regulatory and company standards.
• Safety and Compliance:
• Follow all terminal safety protocols, including personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
• Conduct pre- and post-loading inspections to identify potential hazards.
• Report spills, leaks, or unsafe conditions immediately and take corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with DOT, OSHA, and environmental regulations.
• Quality Control:
• Monitor flow rates, pressures, and temperatures during transfers.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Complete loading/unloading records, including bills of lading and other required paperwork.
• Maintain accurate logs of product movement, inspections, and incidents.
• Equipment Maintenance:
• Conduct routine maintenance and cleaning of loading equipment and hoses.
• Report equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs to the terminal supervisor.
• Communication and Coordination:
• Communicate with dispatchers, drivers, and other terminal personnel to coordinate loading/unloading schedules.
• Work closely with rail operations to ensure timely and efficient product transfers.
• Warehouse:
• Assist in the shipping and receiving department as needed performing tasks such as:
• Prepare orders for shipment in accordance with the pick ticket / BOL and customer requirements
• Complete product inventory at multiple stages through the product lifecycle
• Package / load and ship safely without causing damage
• Organize BOL/Manifests and cross check with customer order ticket to ensure accuracy of product being loaded
• Ability to unload multiple types of containers including flatbed, van trailer, and box cars through a variety of weather conditions indoors and outdoors
• Sort, count, package, label, and unpack inventory that is received
• Inspect shipments for damage, loss, or defects
• Operate dolly, pallet jack, and/or forklift in loading and unloading material and equipment
• Shrink wrap palletized product to protect from damage
• Restack damaged product, consolidate partial pallets by hand as necessary
• Ensure proper stock rotation

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Previous experience in a terminal, industrial, or transportation environment preferred.
• Ability to work in outdoor environments and in varying weather conditions.
• Strong commitment to safety and compliance.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Participation in a Random Drug & Alcohol Program
• Ability to safely climb on and off railcars.
• Must be able to squat, kneel repeatedly or for periods of time to attach/detach hoses.
• Heavy work, lifting to 70 pounds occasionally and up to 100 pounds on a rare basis
• Exposure to equipment that intensifies the heat factor on an occasional basis
• Ability to work in cramped, confined, or enclosed spaces

Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.