Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator (Sit-Down) – Level I & Level II

This role operates sit-down forklifts to support production, shipping, and receiving in a metal manufacturing facility that converts aluminum into metal studs for drywall framing. You will safely move materials, load and unload trucks, and support machine operations using both indoor and outdoor equipment, depending on level. The position offers multiple shifts, optional overtime, and clear progression from Level I to Level II based on experience with heavy loads and large products.

Responsibilities

• Operate sit-down forklifts safely and efficiently to move materials throughout the facility.
• Load and unload trucks using a sit-down forklift, ensuring accurate placement and secure handling of materials.
• Use a tablet and scanner to track inventory, document material movement, and support shipping and receiving processes.
• Deliver replenishment materials to production machines to keep operations running smoothly and minimize downtime.
• Follow established procedures for shipping and receiving, including scanning, labeling, and verifying materials.
• Handle heavy loads and long pieces of metal safely, especially in Level II positions that involve large products.
• Work outdoors as needed in Level II roles to load trucks and manage heavy, long metal components.
• Support production operations by staging materials, moving finished goods, and assisting with material handling tasks.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including designated forklift paths and loading zones.
• Perform basic inspections of forklifts before and after use and report any issues to supervision.
• Follow all safety policies and procedures, including proper use of equipment and adherence to facility guidelines.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production and shipping schedules.
• Work assigned shifts with optional overtime as needed to support operational demands.

Essential Skills

• Sit-down forklift experience (minimum of 6 months for Level I roles).
• Proven ability to safely operate sit-down forklifts in a production, warehouse, or shipping environment.
• Experience loading and unloading trucks using a sit-down forklift.
• Basic familiarity with material handling, including moving, staging, and storing materials.
• Ability to use handheld devices such as tablets and scanners for inventory and shipping tasks.
• Capability to handle heavy loads and long metal products safely, especially for Level II roles.
• Willingness to work indoors and, for Level II positions, outdoors when required.
• Reliability in attending scheduled shifts and working optional overtime when needed.
• Commitment to following safety procedures and maintaining a safe work environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with heavy loads and large products, particularly in metal or construction-related manufacturing.
• Experience in shipping and receiving, including scanning, unloading, and shipping processes.
• Production or manufacturing experience, especially in environments with custom machinery.
• Spanish language skills, as a high percentage of the workforce speaks Spanish.
• Comfort working with long pieces of metal and operating in outdoor loading areas for Level II roles.
• Ability to adapt to custom machinery and unique material handling processes.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from comprehensive support, including free medical insurance for the employee, a 401(k) plan with a match up to 4%, and structured vacation time that grows with tenure. The organization provides holiday bonuses, yearly raises, and clear opportunities for growth and advancement. Team members enjoy a strong, collaborative environment with a focus on long-term stability and career development.

Work Environment

The facility manufactures steel studs for the construction industry using multiple roll-forming machines that convert coils of steel into metal studs. Most machinery is custom, creating a dynamic environment where material handling plays a critical role in production. Forklift operators work primarily with sit-down forklifts, managing aluminum and steel materials, loading and unloading trucks, and supporting machine operations. Level I roles work indoors, while Level II roles include outdoor work, especially when loading trucks with heavy and long metal products. Shifts include a first shift from Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with optional overtime starting at 5:00 a.m., and a second shift from Monday to Friday, 3:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. with optional overtime until 2:00 a.m. The environment is production-focused, with a strong emphasis on safety, teamwork, and efficient material flow. Dress is typical for an industrial manufacturing setting, with appropriate workwear and safety gear required to operate forklifts and move materials safely.

Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Libertyville, IL.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $18.50 - $32.04/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 Libertyville, IL.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Sep 7, 2026.