Forklift Operator And Material Handler

Forklift Operator and Material Handler (Shipping Technician)

This role serves as a Shipping Technician responsible for supporting warehouse and shipping operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will safely operate forklifts to move, stage, load, and unload materials, maintain accurate inventory records, and ensure efficient product flow throughout the facility. Success in this position requires strong forklift experience, attention to detail, and a consistent commitment to safety.

Responsibilities

• Operate sit-down and stand-up forklifts to transport raw materials and finished goods throughout the facility.
• Load and unload trucks, including tractor trailers, safely and efficiently.
• Stage materials for production and shipment according to scheduling and workflow requirements.
• Move inventory to designated warehouse locations and maintain organized storage areas.
• Verify product quantities and ensure all materials are properly labeled and identified.
• Assist with inventory control activities, including cycle counts and material tracking.
• Use ERP or warehouse management systems and basic computer tools to complete inventory and production transactions.
• Perform routine warehouse inspections and maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work area.
• Coordinate shipments with freight carriers and third-party warehouses as needed.
• Support a fast-paced production environment by prioritizing multiple material handling and shipping tasks.
• Conduct basic equipment inspections and report any issues to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Use hand tools, power tools, and warehouse equipment as required for packaging and material handling tasks.
• Follow all safety procedures, policies, and compliance standards at all times.
• Work independently with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively with team members.
• Maintain reliable attendance, a strong work ethic, and remain on your feet throughout the shift while lifting up to 50 lbs on a regular basis.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 3 years of forklift operating experience with sit-down and/or stand-up forklifts.
• Previous experience in a warehouse, shipping, receiving, logistics, distribution, or manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to load and unload freight carriers, including tractor trailers, safely and efficiently.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly and remain active and on your feet throughout the shift.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to inventory accuracy and safety.
• Basic computer skills for inventory transactions, production tracking, and use of ERP or warehouse management systems.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing positively to a team.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced production environment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to perform routine equipment inspections.
• Experience with hand tools, power tools, and common warehouse equipment.
• Demonstrated safety mindset and dedication to maintaining a clean and compliant work environment.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic in a manufacturing or warehouse setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Forklift certification or the ability to obtain certification.
• Experience working specifically in a manufacturing environment.
• Inventory control and cycle count experience, including material tracking and reconciliation.
• Experience coordinating shipments with carriers and third-party warehouses.
• Experience in manufacturing, distribution, warehouse, logistics, or shipping/receiving operations.
• Proficiency with ERP and warehouse management systems for inventory and production workflows.
• Experience with packaging processes and use of related tools and materials.
• Comfort working in a clean machine shop and near a clean room environment.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a supportive, family-oriented culture in a mid-sized operation that offers a small-company feel with stable, structured processes. The organization provides medical and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan with a 4% match, and paid time off, supporting long-term financial security and work-life balance. Team members enjoy consistent weekday schedules, opportunities to grow their skills with advanced equipment and systems, and a strong emphasis on safety, cleanliness, and mutual respect.

Work Environment

The role is based in a clean machine shop with a temperature-controlled environment located near a clean room, providing comfortable and orderly working conditions. The facility operates as a mid-sized, family-owned business with a close-knit, small-time feel and a focus on safety and cleanliness. The normal dress code is casual and practical for warehouse and manufacturing work, with uniforms provided after a certain employment period. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with occasional additional hours as needed to support production and shipping demands. Work involves regular use of forklifts, hand tools, power tools, packaging materials, and warehouse equipment, as well as computer systems and ERP or warehouse management software to manage inventory and shipping activities.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of North Kingstown, RI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $26.00/hr. 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 North Kingstown, RI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 12, 2026.