Forklift Operator

Position Summary

The Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and timely operation of forklifts and material handling equipment in support of Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessel operations. This position plays a critical role in loading, unloading, transporting, staging, and securing cargo throughout the terminal while ensuring compliance with company policies, OSHA regulations, Port Everglades requirements, and all applicable maritime safety standards.

The Forklift Operator must maintain constant awareness of vessel operations, surrounding personnel, equipment, and cargo to ensure efficient cargo movement while minimizing operational delays and safety risks.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The responsibilities listed below are representative of the work performed but are not intended to be all-inclusive.

Cargo Operations

• Safely operate forklifts of various capacities to load and unload cargo from Ro-Ro vessels.
• Transport cargo between vessels, warehouse facilities, storage yards, staging areas, and customer delivery locations within the terminal.
• Position cargo for efficient loading sequences according to vessel loading plans.
• Stack, organize, and secure cargo while maintaining required spacing and accessibility.
• Assist with cargo staging before vessel arrival and departure.
• Load and unload trailers, containers, chassis, and warehouse freight as assigned.
• Handle oversized, heavy, sensitive, or specialized cargo using proper lifting techniques and approved equipment.

Equipment Operations

• Conduct daily pre-operation inspections of assigned forklift equipment.
• Report mechanical deficiencies, equipment damage, leaks, or unsafe operating conditions immediately.
• Maintain cleanliness of assigned equipment.
• Operate forklifts in accordance with manufacturer specifications and company operating procedures.
• Refuel or recharge equipment as required.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and terminal operating procedures.
• Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Observe traffic patterns, pedestrian walkways, vessel operations, and restricted areas.
• Perform work safely around vessel ramps, docks, cranes, trucks, trailers, and heavy equipment.
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, emergency drills, and required training.
• Immediately report accidents, near misses, unsafe conditions, or property damage.

Operational Support

• Assist vessel loading and discharge operations as directed by supervision.
• Communicate with foremen, signal personnel, checkers, and operations staff regarding cargo movement.
• Support inventory movement and terminal housekeeping activities.
• Assist with terminal cleanup and maintaining safe work areas.
• Perform additional operational duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• TWIC Card Required
• Ability to obtain and maintain Port Everglades access credentials.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum one (1) year of forklift operating experience in a port, warehouse, logistics, manufacturing, or industrial environment preferred.
• Experience operating forklifts ranging from standard warehouse units to heavy-capacity forklifts preferred.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Must successfully complete company-required equipment certification.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of safe forklift operating practices.
• Understanding of cargo handling procedures.
• Ability to safely maneuver equipment in congested terminal environments.
• Strong awareness of surroundings and hazard recognition.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Effective communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a vessel operations team.
• Basic knowledge of load capacities and weight distribution.
• Ability to work efficiently under tight vessel schedules and operational deadlines.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

The employee must regularly:

• Sit for extended periods while operating equipment.
• Frequently climb on and off equipment.
• Lift up to 50 pounds.
• Bend, squat, kneel, reach, twist, and climb.
• Maintain visual awareness in all directions.
• Use hands and feet simultaneously to operate equipment controls.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions including heat, humidity, rain, and wind.
• Tolerate exposure to dust, noise, diesel exhaust, vibration, and moving equipment.

Work Environment

This position is performed primarily outdoors in an active marine terminal environment. Employees are regularly exposed to:

• Moving vehicles and heavy equipment
• Vessel loading and unloading operations
• Loud noise levels
• Variable weather conditions
• Shift work, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime based on vessel schedules and operational demands

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Education: High School Diploma or GED
2. Languages: Fluent English/ Bilingual a plus
3. Applicants need to be able to obtain a Ports ID and a TWIC card

Experience and Skills


1. High School Diploma

2. Strong attention to detail

3. Must be able to speak and read conversational English

Supervisory Responsibility


This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work vary depending on the company's needs.

Travel

No travel is expected for this position.


Work Authorization/Security Clearance

Employee must be authorized to work in the United States.


AAP/EEO Statement

Sun Terminals provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and employees are treated during employment without regard to any of these characteristics.
Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.