Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator

The Forklift Operator supports manufacturing and packaging operations at a Chesapeake facility by safely moving materials throughout the site, staging pallets for production, loading and unloading product, and assisting with general production activities as needed in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts safely and efficiently in a manufacturing and warehouse setting.
• Move raw materials and finished products throughout the facility to support production and packaging operations.
• Stage materials and pallets for production lines and packaging activities.
• Load and unload trucks, containers, and other transport vehicles in a timely and accurate manner.
• Support packaging lines and general production activities as needed throughout the shift.
• Perform physical labor, including continuous movement, lifting, and material handling, for the duration of the shift.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area in accordance with safety procedures.
• Follow all safety guidelines while working in outdoor and non-climate-controlled conditions.
• Work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrate dependable attendance and adhere to scheduled hours, including overtime when required.

Essential Skills

• Previous forklift operation experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.
• Proven ability to operate forklifts safely and efficiently.
• Ability to repeatedly lift and move materials safely throughout an entire shift.
• Ability to move, stage, load, and unload materials quickly and accurately.
• Capability to perform continuous physical labor, including lifting and material handling.
• Reliable transportation and a strong history of dependable attendance.
• Ability to work outdoors and in varying temperatures while following safety procedures.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced production and material handling environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Production or manufacturing experience.
• Experience working on packaging or assembly lines.
• Experience with general labor, general production, and material handling tasks.
• Experience with sit-down forklifts and shipping, loading, and picking activities.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing production needs and support various operational tasks.

Why Work Here?

This opportunity offers a strong pathway to demonstrate work ethic, reliability, and performance in a busy manufacturing environment. High-performing and dependable workers may be considered for extended assignments or potential conversion to permanent roles when production needs allow. Even when direct hire is not possible, strong performers can receive positive recommendations for future placements, supporting long-term career growth in manufacturing and logistics.

Work Environment

This role is based in a manufacturing and outdoor warehouse environment that is not climate controlled. Employees spend substantial time working outdoors and must be comfortable with varying temperatures and weather conditions. The facility maintains an energetic atmosphere, with music played throughout the day, and provides fans and misters during warmer months to improve comfort. The position is physically demanding, requiring continuous movement, lifting, material handling, and regular forklift operation. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, with overtime as needed to meet production demands. Steel-toe boots are required as part of the dress code to ensure safety in all work areas.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chesapeake, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $19.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Chesapeake, VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 30, 2026.