Equipment Operator - Forklift Driver

About the Role:

As an Equipment Operator in the manufacturing industry, you will play a critical role in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of machinery that supports production processes. Your primary objective will be to operate, monitor, and maintain various types of manufacturing equipment to meet production targets while adhering to quality and safety standards. You will collaborate closely with production teams to troubleshoot equipment issues, perform routine inspections, and implement preventive maintenance to minimize downtime. This role demands a strong attention to detail and a commitment to following operational protocols to maintain a safe working environment. Ultimately, your work will directly contribute to the smooth functioning of manufacturing operations and the timely delivery of high-quality products.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Proven experience operating manufacturing or industrial equipment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to perform routine maintenance tasks.
• Understanding of workplace safety standards and ability to follow safety protocols.
• Ability to read and interpret equipment manuals and operational instructions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2+ years as a forklift operator
• Certification in equipment operation or industrial machinery.
• Ability to use all warehouse applicable motorized equipment: (LICENSED FOR OPERATATION) such as: forklift, swing reach (~15’ above ground to racking system), pallet rider, order picker, reach truck
• Perform daily inspection of the equipment at the beginning of the shift; maintain equipment neat, clean; notify Supervisor/Manager of any malfunction or damage to equipment
• Identify and verify products being moved against move order, pick ticket, or packing slip
• Ensures correct items are moved in and efficient and timely manner
• Pick up empty boxes and broken pallets and properly dispose of
• Efficiently stack and move merchandise to appropriate areas
• Experience with computerized or automated manufacturing systems.
• Familiarity with quality control processes in a manufacturing environment.
• Basic troubleshooting and repair skills for mechanical and electrical equipment.
• Ability to work flexible shifts including nights and weekends if required.

Responsibilities:

• Operate and control manufacturing equipment according to established procedures and safety guidelines.
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance checks on machinery to ensure optimal performance and prevent breakdowns.
• Identify and report any equipment malfunctions or safety hazards to the maintenance team promptly.
• Collaborate with production supervisors to adjust equipment settings for different production runs and product specifications.
• Maintain accurate records of equipment operation, maintenance activities, and any incidents or repairs.
• May perform a variety of duties based on business needs, including unloading, loading, put away, picking, stacking and retrieving and delivering the correct materials and quantities to designated areas while following all safety policies.
• Follow all safety protocols and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Assist in training new operators on equipment use and safety procedures as needed.

Skills:

The required skills enable the Equipment Operator to efficiently manage and operate complex machinery, ensuring production goals are met without compromising safety. Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills are essential for identifying and resolving equipment issues quickly, minimizing downtime. Strong communication skills facilitate effective collaboration with maintenance teams and supervisors to coordinate repairs and adjustments. Attention to detail is critical for monitoring equipment performance and maintaining accurate operational records. Preferred skills such as familiarity with automated systems and quality control processes enhance the operator's ability to adapt to advanced manufacturing technologies and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.