Forklift Operator

Stand-Up Deep Reach Forklift Operator

The Stand-Up Deep Reach Forklift Operator safely and efficiently moves raw and finished goods throughout a refrigerated and freezer warehouse environment. This role focuses on case picking, order processing, staging, and loading and unloading trailers using a stand-up deep reach forklift for the majority of the shift. The position requires consistent physical activity, strong attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and teamwork while working in temperatures ranging from 0F to 40F on an afternoon to evening schedule, Monday through Friday.

Responsibilities

• Operate a stand-up deep reach forklift for at least 80% of the workday to move raw and finished goods throughout the warehouse.
• Pick, pull, and stage orders accurately according to production schedules and customer requirements.
• Load and unload trailers while protecting product integrity and minimizing damage during handling.
• Maintain accurate inventory by correctly handling, labeling, and placing products in designated locations.
• Follow all safety procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), completion of equipment checks, and adherence to warehouse safety protocols.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of hazards to support overall warehouse housekeeping standards.
• Work effectively in cold environments, including freezer areas at 0F or below and refrigerated production areas near 40F.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors, leads, and team members to support smooth warehouse operations and resolve issues quickly.
• Report equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or product issues promptly to help prevent downtime or quality problems.
• Support overtime needs as required, including working before or after scheduled shifts and on some Saturdays to meet operational demands.

Essential Skills

• Proven ability to operate a stand-up deep reach forklift safely and efficiently in a warehouse environment.
• Strong skills in inventory handling, including accurate picking, staging, and product placement.
• Experience with material handling in a fast-paced warehouse or distribution setting.
• Ability to work safely and consistently in refrigerated and freezer environments with temperatures ranging from 0F to 40F.
• Attention to detail to maintain product integrity and inventory accuracy.
• Reliable communication skills to coordinate with supervisors, leads, and team members.
• Commitment to following safety procedures, PPE requirements, and equipment inspection protocols.
• Physical ability to perform consistent, active work throughout the shift in a cold environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a refrigerated or freezer warehouse environment.
• Background in food or meat processing warehouse operations.
• Familiarity with unionized work environments.
• Willingness to work overtime, including before or after scheduled shifts and some Saturdays, as operational needs require.

Why Work Here?

You join a stable operation with a structured afternoon schedule that supports consistent work hours during the week. You work in a union facility that offers clear standards and procedures, reinforcing fairness and safety in daily operations. You become part of a team-focused warehouse environment where communication, reliability, and mutual support are highly valued. You gain experience in a specialized refrigerated and freezer setting, building skills that are in demand across the logistics and food distribution industry.

Work Environment

This role is based in a refrigerated and freezer warehouse within a meat forming plant, with temperatures ranging from 0F in freezer areas to approximately 40F in refrigerated production zones. You operate a stand-up deep reach forklift for the majority of the shift, Monday through Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with overtime opportunities before or after scheduled hours and on some Saturdays as needed. The environment is fast-paced and safety-focused, with required PPE and adherence to strict safety and housekeeping standards to maintain a clean, organized, and compliant facility.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of East Saint Louis, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $26.08 - $26.08/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in East Saint Louis, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 23, 2026.