Forklift Operator - 1st Shift

Forklift Operator

About MS Companies

MS Companies is a leading provider of quality services and workforce solutions supporting the automotive and manufacturing industries. Recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the nation, we operate across multiple states and internationally, delivering technology-driven solutions that enhance quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Position Summary

MS Companies is seeking a Forklift Operator - Quality Support to safely operate forklifts and other powered industrial equipment in support of quality inspection, material handling, and production operations within an automotive manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for transporting materials, maintaining inventory accuracy, staging parts for inspection and rework, and ensuring the efficient flow of products throughout the facility while adhering to all safety, quality, and customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate forklifts and other powered industrial trucks in accordance with company policies and OSHA regulations.
• Transport raw materials, work-in-process, finished goods, and quality-inspected products throughout the facility.
• Stage materials for quality inspections, sorting, containment, rework, and production activities.
• Return approved materials and components to designated storage or production locations.
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, racks, pallets, and production lines as assigned.
• Perform daily pre-shift inspections of forklifts and report maintenance or safety concerns immediately.
• Accurately scan, track, and document material movement using handheld scanners, inventory systems, or manual documentation.
• Maintain accurate inventory and material traceability.
• Support quality inspection, containment, and rework activities when operational needs require.
• Follow all customer-specific requirements, quality standards, and work instructions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment through 5S and housekeeping practices.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with all company safety policies.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, team members, and customer representatives regarding material flow and operational issues.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to visually identify defects in color, shape, size, or texture of parts
• Must be able to hear and differentiate sounds in a manufacturing environment
• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout the workday for extended periods on concrete floors (up to 10-12 hours)
• Must be able to move within buildings and operational areas, including ascending and descending stairs
• Must be able to reach, turn, stoop, bend, crouch, kneel, and maintain balance to prevent falls
• Must be able to reach overhead and perform repetitive movements
• Must be able to lift, carry, transfer, push, and pull up to 30 lbs.
• Must be able to grasp with both hands and perform fine motor tasks requiring coordination and repetitive motion
• Good hand-eye coordination for inspection and material handling
• Must be able to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of one (1) year of forklift experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or distribution environment.
• Previous automotive manufacturing experience preferred.
• Current forklift certification preferred; must be able to successfully complete customer-specific forklift certification requirements if applicable.
• Experience using RF scanners, warehouse management systems (WMS), or inventory software.
• Basic computer skills and experience using scanners or inventory tracking systems preferred.
• Strong understanding of material flow and inventory control practices.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable attendance and flexibility to work overtime, weekends, or different shifts as needed.
• Ability to read, understand, and communicate in English to follow work instructions, complete required documentation, and comply with safety and quality requirements

Work Hours

Work hours and schedules may vary by location, the nature of work, your department, and customers' needs, and are subject to change from time to time to meet business needs.

Labor Pool - Variable Schedule Based on Business Needs (Hours Not Guaranteed)

Benefits

• Flexible scheduling options
• Comprehensive insurance and benefits packages
• Training provided for career advancement opportunities
• Team-oriented company culture
• Access to earned wages through Daily Pay

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. The above requirements outline management's assignment of essential job functions. This information contained herein does not constitute a contract, express or implied.

Work Authorization Requirements

Authorized to work in the United States of America.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

MS Companies is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, or local laws.

MS Companies prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind and applies this policy to all employment practices, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and development. Employment decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.