Forklift Operator

Steel Yard Forklift Operator

Paul Transportation is seeking an experienced Steel Yard Forklift Operator to support our Houston yard operations. This position is responsible for safely loading, unloading, staging, and handling steel pipe and other heavy steel products while supporting daily yard operations.

This is not a traditional warehouse forklift position. We are looking for someone with proven experience working in a steel yard, pipe yard, or similar industrial environment who understands proper load placement, weight distribution, and the safe handling of long, oversized materials. The ideal candidate takes pride in working safely, efficiently, and as part of a team in a fast-paced outdoor environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely load and unload steel pipe, tubing, and other steel products from flatbed trailers.
• Operate large-capacity forklifts in a busy outdoor yard environment.
• Stage outbound loads according to dispatch and customer requirements.
• Verify load counts and inspect materials for damage before loading and unloading.
• Assist drivers with proper load placement to ensure safe transportation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform daily pre-operation and post-operation inspections of forklifts and report maintenance needs.
• Follow OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and safe operating procedures at all times.
• Assist with general yard operations and material movement as needed.
• Work collaboratively with drivers, dispatch, and yard personnel to maintain efficient operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum two (2) years of forklift experience in a steel yard, pipe yard, metal service center, or similar heavy industrial environment required.
• Experience loading and unloading steel pipe is required.
• Experience operating high-capacity forklifts (15,000-pound capacity or greater preferred).
• Strong understanding of proper load balance, weight distribution, and safe handling of oversized materials.
• Ability to safely work around flatbed trailers and heavy equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to workplace safety.
• Reliable attendance and a dependable work ethic.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting flatbed transportation operations.
• Experience handling structural steel, steel coils, or other heavy steel products.
• Basic knowledge of shipping and receiving documentation.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, climb, and reach throughout the workday.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, humidity, and other weather conditions.
• Ability to maintain awareness of moving trucks, forklifts, and personnel in an active industrial yard.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid Time Off

Keywords: Steel Yard Forklift Operator, Forklift Operator, Pipe Yard, Steel Pipe, Material Handler, Flatbed Loading, Heavy Equipment Operator, Industrial Forklift, Shipping & Receiving, Houston TX