Forklift Operator

Material HandlerThe Material Handler safely moves, stores, and prepares materials and products to support efficient production and shipping operations. This role involves unloading incoming materials, using an overhead crane and sit-down forklift to move product between work cells, performing accurate order pulling based on tape measure readings, and using RF scanners and inventory systems to maintain precise stock control.ResponsibilitiesUnload materials and merchandise from incoming vehicles and stack them in designated storage areas.Use an overhead crane to move materials between different cells and work areas in the facility.Read and use a tape measure accurately, including measurements down to 1/16 of an inch, to pull materials according to detailed lists and specifications.Locate and move stock to pallets or crates for storage or shipment, ensuring correct quantities and item selection.Prepare orders by pulling, packing, and staging materials for shipping and receiving activities.Operate a sit-down forklift to load, unload, and transport materials safely throughout the warehouse and production areas.Use RF scanners and inventory software to track materials, perform inventory control, and update stock records.Identify damages, report shortages, and communicate quality deficiencies promptly to maintain product and process integrity.Support shipping and freight management processes, including dispatch activities and shipment preparation.Maintain a clean, organized warehouse environment and follow established procedures for loading, unloading, and order picking.Collaborate with production and dispatch teams to ensure materials are available when needed and workflow remains efficient.Follow all safety guidelines and company policies while operating material handling equipment and working in the warehouse.Essential SkillsAt least 2 years of material handling experience in a warehouse or production environment.Minimum 1 year of experience operating an overhead crane.Proficiency using a tape measure, including reading measurements down to 1/16 of an inch.Experience operating a sit-down forklift for loading, unloading, and material movement.Hands-on experience with warehouse operations, including shipping, receiving, loading, unloading, and order pulling.Ability to use RF scanners and inventory systems for tracking and managing stock.Strong attention to detail for identifying damages, shortages, and quality deficiencies.Ability to perform accurate picking, packing, and order preparation.Comfort working with shipping and freight management processes and related software.Reliable work habits and ability to support a standard 50-hour work week.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience in a warehouse environment supporting production operations.Experience in inventory control and order picking within shipping and receiving.Familiarity with dispatch activities and coordinating shipments.Ability to adapt to process improvements and changes in shop layout and material flow.Comfort working with computers and performing a significant amount of computer-based inventory and shipping tasks.Strong communication skills to work effectively with production, shipping, and dispatch teams.Why Work Here?You join a company that is actively growing and investing in its future, with a clear goal to significantly expand operations over the next three years. The organization is committing substantial resources to modernize equipment, reorganize and improve shop layout, and enhance workflow and processes. This environment offers meaningful opportunities to grow with the business, contribute to ongoing improvements, and benefit from a standard 50-hour work week that provides consistent overtime potential. You work in a culture that values continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and long-term stability.Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a warehouse and production environment on a first shift schedule, typically working from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, for a standard 50-hour work week. You work around active material handling operations, including overhead cranes and sit-down forklifts, and use RF scanners, inventory systems, and shipping and freight management software as part of daily tasks. The facility is undergoing ongoing updates to equipment and shop organization to improve workflow and process efficiency, creating a dynamic environment focused on operational improvement and productivity.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Des Moines, IA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $21.26 - $22.26/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Des Moines, IA.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 2026.