Forklift Operator

JOB SUMMARY:
Drives gasoline, diesel, or electric powered industrial trucks equipped with forklift blades used to lift, stack, or tier equipment and materials throughout the shipyard. Occasionally lifts personnel in basket as well. Performs other related tasks as assigned, some of which may become essential to the position.


QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:
Requires previous experience or training. Must be able to acquire the required operator's license by passing written and hands-on tests. Excellent driving skills are needed. Must be able to operate hand and foot controls and read and understand material shipping documents. Must have the ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and be able to work any shift. Must be able to understand and follow written, visual, and verbal instructions, hear warning signals, and read and comprehend safety instructions, regulations, and warnings.


ESSENTIAL JOB TASKS:
1. Use forklifts to push, pull, lift, stack, or tier merchandise, equipment, or bulk materials in warehouses, the shipyard, or on-board ships.
2. Drive trucks and control movements of the lifting apparatus.
3. Position forks or lifting platforms under loaded pallets, skids, or boxes.
4. Unload and stack materials by raising and lowering lift forks or lifting platforms.
5. Inspect forklifts daily for mechanical and fluid deficiencies.
6. Other tasks may be assigned relevant to the trade


MATERIALS, TOOLS EQUIPMENT, WORK AIDS


Wide variety of parts, machinery, supplies, assemblies and components, slings, chains, forklifts, and radios. Personal protective equipment is required .


PHYSICAL/MENTAL INVOLVEMENT:
Works in all areas of the shipyard and on board ships requiring repetitive or prolonged sitting, reclining, reaching, manual and finger dexterity, seeing, and hearing. May have to lift between 50 and 60 pounds. Must be able to work on board ships while under construction. Must maintain general safety awareness by following directions, hearing warning signals, reading and comprehending safety instructions, and avoid hazards commonly present in an employee's work area.


MARGINAL JOB TASKS:
Perform housekeeping, including sweeping, in all work areas. Attend safety quality and/or process improvement meetings as required.


ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
Exposure to fumes, odors, dust, gases, various climates and temperatures, and low ventilation conditions, all of which may cause discomfort and/or respiratory difficulties. Exposure to constantly moving machines and mechanical parts and high levels of constant noise.