Forklift Operator

Forklift OperatorThis role focuses on safely operating sit-down forklifts and related material handling equipment in a high-volume warehouse environment that supports the production and distribution of kitty litter products. The forklift operator moves finished goods and raw materials, loads and unloads trailers, performs case picking, and helps maintain accurate inventory while meeting established efficiency and safety standards.ResponsibilitiesRetrieve packaged products from the packaging department wrapper area and load them onto outbound trailers or place them on warehouse racks for put-away, according to product orders.Unload inbound product and raw materials from trailers and move them either to outbound trailers or to designated rack locations for put-away.Perform pre-shift and post-shift operational inspections on the assigned sit-down forklift each day to ensure safe and proper functioning.Inspect trailers and product pallets prior to loading to verify load integrity, proper weight distribution, and adherence to shipping instructions.Conduct product inventory activities, including bin consolidation and case picking, to support accurate stock levels and order fulfillment.Meet required efficiency and productivity targets based on operator level while maintaining high safety and quality standards.Operate pallet wrappers and regularly get on and off the forklift to complete loading, unloading, and staging tasks.Safely operate sit-down forklifts and other material handling equipment to move finished products from the production line to the correct warehouse locations.Load and unload trucks and trailers, ensuring that all products are handled carefully and stored or staged in the appropriate areas.Pick and pull product from warehouse racks following established procedures and guidelines.Perform case picking using an RF scanner, hand-wrap and label products, and stage them in the appropriate location for shipment or further processing.Maintain a clean and safe production and warehouse environment, including performing sanitation and general cleaning duties as needed.Regularly lift items weighing up to 55 pounds while performing loading, unloading, and material handling tasks.Participate in an in-person interview and hands-on forklift skills test as part of the hiring process, with a strong focus on safety practices.Follow all facility safety guidelines and procedures, contributing to a culture where safety is a key focus and is consistently discussed and reinforced.Essential Skills12 years of warehouse experience with sit-down forklift operation.Proven ability to operate sit-down forklifts safely and efficiently in a high-volume, fast-paced environment handling approximately 150-200 pallets per day.Experience with shipping and receiving processes, including loading and unloading trailers.Hands-on material handling experience, including pallet jack and electric pallet jack use.Ability to perform case picking and product handling using an RF scanner.Familiarity with SAP or warehouse management systems (WMS) accessed via an iPad or similar device.Ability to regularly lift up to 55 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks throughout the shift.Strong focus on safety, with a commitment to following all safety protocols and guidelines.Willingness to complete an in-person interview that includes a practical forklift skills test.Comfort working in a fast-paced, high-volume warehouse environment.Reliable attendance and ability to work scheduled shifts, including training on first shift and subsequent third-shift work.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience operating forklifts in large distribution or e-commerce environments, including experience gained in facilities such as Amazon.Previous experience with pallet wrapping equipment and manual hand-wrapping of products.Background in packing, unloading, and general warehouse operations.Ability to adapt to changing priorities and support multiple warehouse functions such as picking, staging, and inventory.Strong attention to detail when inspecting trailers, pallets, and loads to ensure accuracy and load integrity.Comfort using technology such as RF scanners and tablets for inventory management and order processing.Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Tappahannock, VA.Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $25.65 - $26.65/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)Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Nov 20, 2026.Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in Tappahannock, VA.