Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator

The Holden, LA lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Forklift Operators for both day and evening shifts! The starting pay for this position is $20.41 per hour. A Forklift Operator is responsible for safely moving lumber and related materials between the planer mill, sawmill, kilns, storage yards, and other production areas while supporting efficient operations and maintaining quality standards. Available Shifts: 1st Shift: 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM 2nd Shift: 5:00 PM - 3:30 AM If you enjoy working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and have experience operating forklifts safely and efficiently, we encourage you to apply. Core operational duties Move lumber packs between the planer mill, sawmill, kilns, storage sheds, and distribution center using a forklift. Supply infeed packs to the planer mill and remove finished or staged packs to maintain orderly material flow. Stack and organize green and dry lumber packs according to production needs, dimensions, and drying schedules. Break down kiln cars of dried lumber and place packs onto the track system for planer mill feeding. Load/unload tractor-trailer trucks and stage finished product for shipping. Support and maintenance tasks Conduct pre-use inspections and walk-arounds of forklifts and equipment; report defects or safety issues promptly. Perform basic preventive maintenance and assist maintenance crews with troubleshooting. Maintain clean, safe work areas by removing debris, broken boards, strapping, and other hazards. Quality and safety responsibilities Follow QC guidelines for lumber rotation, tracking, and file control charts. Identify and report damaged or defective lumber, shortages, or quality deficiencies. Comply with all safety procedures, including load handling, stacking practices, pedestrian awareness, and traffic management rules.

Additional requirements Operate equipment at safe speeds, within site expectations, and with proper load security. Communicate clearly with supervisors, team members, and other operators to coordinate safe and efficient work. Be flexible to support multiple mill areas based on production priorities or staffing needs

Qualifications Able to work safely and follow all company policies and procedures. High school diploma or equivalent. Experience operating a large forklift in a production environment. Must have demonstrated leadership and team skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Must have good computer skills. (Strong Excel skills) Self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision. Good decision making skills. Able to conduct visual equipment inspections, perform basic preventive maintenance and assist maintenance in troubleshooting/improving equipment. Must be able to do basic math, read dials, and insert data into spreadsheet. Good hand/eye coordination. Must be willing to work a 12-hour, rotating/variable shift. Must be able and willing to work with little or no notice on any shift, including weekends, overtime, and holidays. Able to work in extreme temperatures, in dusty and noisy conditions, while wearing safety equipment. Must be able to meet the essential job function of this position, including but not limited to lift 2-20 pounds regularly, lift up to 50 pounds occasionally, climb steps and ladders, work from heights, and work in tight spaces. Successful completion of assessment process, background check and post-offer pre-employment drug screen and physical Resume detailing your education and work history required. The following qualifications are preferred: Previous experience in lumber mill environment