Material Handler

Material Handler / Equipment Operator

This role operates a variety of powered industrial trucks and material handling equipment to move, store, and retrieve inventory within a fast-paced distribution center. The material handler loads and unloads trailers, transports and stocks merchandise, and ensures accurate inventory movement using barcode scanning and product identification systems. The person in this role will be cross-trained in other departments as needed and may assist with additional duties and special projects to support overall warehouse operations. Openings on all shifts available with a premium for off-shifts!

Responsibilities:

• Operate stand-up reach trucks, forklifts, stock pickers, cherry pickers, and double pallet jacks to safely move, store, and retrieve inventory throughout the distribution center.
• Manually and mechanically load and unload trailers, handling large merchandise such as grills, safes, kayaks, tree stands, and similar products.
• Transport, stage, and accurately stock inbound and outbound materials in designated areas while maintaining inventory control through barcode scanning and product identification systems.
• Work at heights up to 30 feet in warehouse racking to safely pull, put away, and organize merchandise in assigned storage locations.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and safety checks to ensure all material handling equipment remains in safe operating condition.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area by completing daily housekeeping duties and adhering to all safety procedures and policies.
• Meet or exceed productivity, accuracy, and quality standards in a fast-paced distribution environment where equipment operation accounts for 75% or more of daily work.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail and basic numerical skills to ensure accurate inventory movement, stocking, and order fulfillment.
• Communicate professionally with team members and supervisors to coordinate workflow, resolve issues, and support cross-functional warehouse operations.
• Remain flexible to work overtime, perform additional duties, and participate in special projects as needed to support business demands.
• Become machine certified and maintain certification for all required equipment as directed by the distribution center.

Essential Skills:

• 1+ year of material handling experience.
• Proficiency operating forklifts and other powered industrial trucks such as stand-up forklifts, sit-down forklifts, and pallet jacks.
• Experience with material handling tasks including picking, packing, loading, and unloading.
• Ability to operate or quickly learn stand-up reach trucks, stock pickers, cherry pickers, and double pallet jacks.
• Capability to work at heights up to 30 feet in warehouse racking while following safety procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and basic numerical skills to support accurate inventory control and order fulfillment.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced distribution environment with high equipment usage.
• Willingness to become machine certified on required equipment.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with team members and leadership.
• Commitment to following all safety policies, procedures, and equipment inspection requirements.

Additional Skills & Qualifications:

• Experience with a cherry picker is a plus.
• Experience operating pallet jacks, including double pallet jacks, is a plus.
• Prior experience with barcode scanning and product identification systems is beneficial.
• Comfort working with large and bulky merchandise such as grills, safes, kayaks, and similar items.
• Flexibility to support cross-training in other departments and assist with special projects.
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple assignments while maintaining accuracy and quality.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a comprehensive rewards package that supports both their personal and professional lives. Team members enjoy discounts on retail merchandise, restaurants, world-class resorts, and conservation attractions, creating meaningful value beyond the workplace. A robust benefits program includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options and a range of voluntary benefits. Long-term financial security is supported through a 401k retirement savings plan. Time away from work is respected with paid holidays, paid vacation, and paid sick time. Additional support is available through a dedicated assistance fund, reflecting a culture that prioritizes care, stability, and well-being.

Work Environment:

This role is based indoors in a non-climate-controlled distribution center environment. Team members work around powered industrial trucks such as forklifts, stand-up reach trucks, stock pickers, cherry pickers, and pallet jacks throughout their shift. The position involves frequent movement, including walking, standing, lifting, and working at heights up to 30 feet in warehouse racking. The environment is fast paced and focused on safety, with regular equipment inspections, adherence to safety procedures, and daily housekeeping responsibilities. Employees should be prepared for varying temperatures and warehouse conditions while maintaining appropriate work attire suitable for an active, equipment-intensive setting.

Job Type & Location:

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Prairie Du Chien, WI.

Pay and Benefits:

The pay range for this position is $17.50 - $21.00/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 Prairie Du Chien, WI.

Application Deadline:

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 30, 2026.