Forklift Operator

Description

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Forklift Operator to support the safe, timely, and efficient handling of materials across our facility. This position is responsible for the movement, storage, staging, loading, and unloading of materials using powered industrial trucks and other material handling equipment. Approximately 25% or more of work time will be spent performing critical duties off and on the forklift, including material preparation, system updates, and maintenance tasks.

Key Responsibilities

Forklift Operation (Approx. 75% of Work Time)

• Load and unload products from trailers using powered industrial trucks (PITs) and other material handling equipment.

• Safely deliver materials to production areas and move finished goods to appropriate inventory or shipping locations.

• Store raw materials, WIP (work-in-progress), and finished products in designated areas according to company procedures.

• Ensure safe and timely delivery of all materials and supplies.

Non-Forklift Duties (Approx. 25% or More Work Time)

• Sort, pack, wrap, tie, and label materials and products per company guidelines.

• Perform basic forklift and equipment maintenance tasks, including:

o Refueling, recharging, cleaning, and oiling

o Recording all maintenance activities using eMaintenance or other required systems

• Conduct and document full pre-operation equipment inspections at the start of every shift.

o Includes checking fluids, voltage, and fuel levels in accordance with policy

• Accurately input material data into inventory and warehouse systems, including:

o Location, classification, source, destination, quantity, and identification

• Prioritize daily tasks and execute work instructions using company systems effectively.

• Perform a full pre-operation inspection at the start of every shift before operating the forklift AND as specified by company policy both to ensure safety and to prevent degradation and damage of equipment,

• The above includes but is not limited to checking fuel, fluid, and voltage levels prior to operation.

Safety First
Safety is our top priority, and full compliance with OSHA, company policies, and equipment operating standards is always required.

• OSHA regulations and all applicable laws.

• Complete all company-required training.

• Consistently complete all assigned pre-operation inspection steps.

• Always manage all facets of forklift operation in accordance with company policies and guidelines.

• Perform all work in full compliance with OSHA standards and all applicable laws and regulations.

• Identify and report to the operator's assigned manager equipment malfunctions and repair needs, and any accidents, near misses, and/or unsafe conditions related to the team member's work in operating the forklift and moving, storing, shipping, staging, and receiving material.

• Maintain a clean and safe work environment by removing empty pallets, debris, and other materials from work areas.

• Support continuous improvement and report any safety concerns or operational inefficiencies.

Operator Training & Certification

Must complete OSHA-compliant training (29 CFR 1910.178).
Training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on evaluation.
Certification must be renewed every 3 years or after an incident


Working Conditions

Warehouse environment with exposure to material handling equipment
Standing, walking, and manual handling of materials is required throughout the shift
Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as required

Environmental Awareness

Operators must be alert to:

Pedestrian traffic
Ramps, slopes, and dock edges
Overhead clearances and tight aisles

Requirements

Physical Requirements
• Able to execute 3-point mount and dismount onto and off of a forklift multiple times per hour for up to 12 hours per day.

• Able to lift 50+ pounds unassisted from the floor to overhead.

• Able to consistently stand, bend, twist, and move up to 12 hours per day in a fast-paced manufacturing or warehouse environment.

• Good vision and hearing (corrected if necessary).

• Adequate hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.

• Ability to sit for extended periods and operate foot and hand controls.

• Strength and flexibility to climb in and out of the forklift and perform inspections.

• Balance and spatial awareness to maneuver in tight spaces and around pedestrians.