Lead Forklift Operator

Lead Forklift Operator

The Lead Forklift Operator serves as a working lead within the warehouse operation, providing day-to-day guidance, training, and support to Forklift Operators while actively participating in loading, unloading, and inventory movement activities. This position works closely with warehouse leadership to ensure shipments and receipts are completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with company policies and customer requirements. The Lead Forklift Operator plays a key role in maintaining operational efficiency, promoting safe work practices, and supporting the development and performance of warehouse personnel.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and support to Forklift Operators on the warehouse floor.
• Assist in coordinating workflow to ensure efficient loading, unloading, storage, and movement of materials.
• Train, mentor, and onboard new operators while reinforcing best practices and safety standards.
• Monitor work activities to ensure compliance with customer requirements, company policies, and operational procedures.
• Safely operate forklift equipment and material handling equipment as needed.
• Verify inbound and outbound shipments for accuracy and report discrepancies to leadership.
• Collaborate with supervisors and warehouse personnel to meet productivity, quality, and service objectives.
• Promote and maintain a safe, organized, and clean work environment.
• Ensure products are stored and staged in designated locations to maximize efficiency and inventory accuracy.
• Communicate operational issues, concerns, and improvement opportunities to warehouse leadership.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of three years of forklift operating experience in a warehouse, manufacturing, or distribution environment.
• Previous experience serving as a trainer, mentor, lead, or informal team leader preferred.
• Experience with RF scanners and warehouse technology.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and communicate effectively with team members and leadership.
• Basic math and inventory-counting skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and in a fast-paced environment.
• High School Diploma or GED preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely operate forklift and material handling equipment throughout the shift.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting.
• Ability to multitask and effectively respond to changing operational priorities.
• Occasional climbing, crouching, kneeling, and lifting of materials as required.

Working Conditions:

• Warehouse and distribution center environment.
• Regular exposure to material handling equipment, moving machinery, and warehouse traffic.
• Moderate to high noise levels.
• Work performed both indoors and occasionally outdoors.
• Exposure to varying temperatures depending on seasonal and weather conditions.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Pay: $20.10 - $20.85 per hour (based on shift)
• Quarterly Attendance Bonus Opportunities
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Career Development and Advancement Opportunities
• Additional Benefits available

Schedule:

• Shift: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Shifts Available
• Hours:
  • 1st: Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm
  • 2nd: Monday - Friday, 3:00pm - 11:30pm
  • 3rd: Sunday - Thursday, 11:00pm - 7:30am

EEO Statement:

Findlay Tall Timbers Distribution Center dba Ohio Logistics provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected category.