Forklift Operator

Forklift OperatorThe Material Handler safely loads and unloads daily freight, palletizes products, and stores pallets on shelves in a busy production warehouse environment. This role supports efficient food distribution operations by accurately handling materials and using warehouse equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks.ResponsibilitiesUnload and load trucks with daily freight in a safe and efficient manner.Palletize products and materials according to established procedures and quality standards.Store pallets on shelves and in designated warehouse locations to maintain organized inventory.Operate sit-down forklifts and pallet jacks to move, stack, and retrieve materials.Handle packaging tasks to prepare products for distribution.Support food distribution activities by accurately picking and staging orders.Follow all safety guidelines and warehouse operating procedures at all times.Maintain a clean and orderly work area within the production warehouse.Adhere strictly to attendance expectations and reliability standards.Essential SkillsAt least 6 months of warehouse experience.At least 6 months of forklift experience.Ability to safely operate a sit-down forklift.Ability to operate a pallet jack for material movement.Experience with material handling in a production or distribution environment.Ability to perform packaging tasks accurately and efficiently.Basic picking and order-handling skills.Strong reliability and commitment to consistent attendance.Ability to work in a colder production warehouse environment.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience in food distribution environments.Ability to follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures.Attention to detail when palletizing and storing materials.Strong awareness of safety practices in a warehouse setting.Comfort working both independently and as part of a team.Why Work Here?Employees enjoy a supportive production environment with opportunities to transition to a direct role that offers medical, dental, and vision benefits, along with paid time off. Team members also receive attractive discounts on fresh produce and food items, creating added value beyond regular compensation. The culture emphasizes reliability, safety, and teamwork, providing a stable and structured setting for long-term growth.Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a production warehouse environment focused on food distribution and material handling. The facility operates in a colder setting, so employees need to dress appropriately in warm, practical attire suitable for warehouse work. Team members use equipment such as sit-down forklifts and pallet jacks and work around palletized goods and shelving systems. The environment is fast-paced, safety-conscious, and structured, with clear expectations around attendance and performance.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Mankato, MN.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $20.00 - $22.00/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)