Forklift Operator

Job Title: Forklift Operator Job Description

This seasonal forklift operator position runs through January and focuses on safely and efficiently operating a sit-down forklift for most of the shift. You will support production lines, load and unload trailers, and move materials throughout the facility to keep operations running smoothly.

Responsibilities

• Operate a sit-down forklift safely and efficiently for nearly the entire shift.

• Supply production lines with materials in a timely and accurate manner.

• Load and unload trailers while following proper material-handling procedures.

• Move materials throughout the facility to designated locations as directed.

• Handle general labor tasks related to material management and production support.

• Use material-handling equipment to stage, store, and retrieve products and supplies.

• Maintain accurate documentation, including production logs and shift reports.

• Identify and promptly report equipment issues or irregularities to supervisors.

• Ensure product labeling and packaging meet established quality and safety standards.

• Communicate clearly with team members and supervisors to coordinate workflow.

• Assist in multiple departments as needed to support overall production demands.

• Follow all safety policies and procedures, including proper use of PPE.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area throughout the shift.

• Demonstrate consistent attendance and punctuality, especially during peak seasonal periods.

Essential Skills

• At least 1 year of experience operating a sit-down forklift.

• Hands-on experience with material-handling equipment in a production or warehouse environment.

• General labor and material management experience in an industrial setting.

• Ability to learn new equipment and processes quickly.

• Basic troubleshooting skills to identify and report equipment issues promptly.

• Strong documentation skills for maintaining accurate production logs and shift reports.

• High attention to detail to ensure correct product labeling and packaging quality.

• Clear and professional communication with team members and supervisors.

• Flexibility to assist in multiple departments as operational needs change.

• Reliability in attendance and punctuality, particularly during seasonal peak periods.

• Commitment to following safety procedures and using required PPE at all times.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in a high-volume production or distribution environment.

• Comfort working extended shifts of 810 hours as needed.

• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and production schedules.

• Strong teamwork mindset and willingness to support colleagues across departments.

Why Work Here?

You will join a union facility that offers a stable and structured work environment with clear guidelines and protections. The operation manages a significant portion of distribution in its industry and is investing in brand-new production lines, providing opportunities to grow with a premier canned goods operation. Annual merit increases are determined through negotiation, and there is a strong focus on promoting from within, including pathways into leadership roles. The facility supplies personal protective equipment and provides an allowance for safety footwear and safety glasses, reflecting a strong commitment to employee safety and well-being.

Work Environment

This role is based in a unionized production and distribution facility where you will spend most of your shift operating a sit-down forklift. Shifts typically run 810 hours, with current openings on 2nd shift (approximately 3:00 p.m. to 11:15 p.m.) and potential for additional hours, including occasional Saturdays, depending on workload and staffing. The environment is fast-paced and highly focused on safety, with personal protective equipment provided and allowances for approved safety shoes and safety glasses. You will work around active production lines, trailers being loaded and unloaded, and ongoing material movement throughout the facility, requiring consistent situational awareness and adherence to all safety procedures.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rochelle, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $18.00/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)

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rochelle, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 17, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Rochelle,IL.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.