Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator - Grass Seed Facility (1st Shift)

Pay: $18.50 per hour Shift: First Shift Employment Type: Full-Time, Temporary to Hire Location: Independence, OR

We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to join our grass seed production facility. In this role, you will operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment to move, stack, store, and load products throughout the facility. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced industrial environment and committed to maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform daily forklift safety inspections prior to operation.
• Check and maintain equipment fluid levels, including oil, water, and fuel.
• Supply production lines with empty pallets and communicate pallet inventory needs to supervisors.
• Remove palletized bags from production lines and transport them to designated areas.
• Operate stretch-wrapping equipment and replace stretch film as needed.
• Store finished products in assigned inventory locations while maintaining organization and product integrity.
• Load outbound trucks according to Bills of Lading (BOLs) accurately and safely.
• Communicate any shipping discrepancies or changes to dispatch and office personnel.
• Perform physical inventory counts as required.
• Assist with facility housekeeping, including picking up debris, restacking materials, and cleaning equipment.
• Meet established quality, safety, and production standards.
• Maintain safe forklift operation and report equipment issues promptly.

Qualifications

• Previous forklift operating experience preferred.
• Ability to safely operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to climb on and off equipment throughout the workday.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating machinery.
• Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English and follow instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and safety procedures.

Work Environment

This position requires working in a manufacturing and warehouse environment that may include:

• Dusty conditions
• Hot and cold temperatures
• Outdoor exposure, including rain and changing weather conditions
• Standing, walking, lifting, and equipment operation throughout the shift

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work mandatory overtime as needed.
• Availability to work weekends and holidays when required.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive hourly pay
• Consistent first-shift schedule
• Opportunities to gain valuable warehouse and production experience
• Safety-focused work environment
• Team-oriented workplace culture