Forklift Operator

Immediate HireJob Title: Machine Operator / Forklift OperatorLocation: Wharton, NJShift: First Shift (12-Hour Shifts Available)Pay: $19.00 - $20.00 per hour + OvertimePosition OverviewWe are seeking a reliable and safety-focused Machine Operator / Forklift Operator to join our manufacturing team. This role combines production line machine operation with material handling responsibilities in both indoor and outdoor environments. The ideal candidate will have experience operating industrial equipment, sit-down forklifts, and production machinery while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and productivity.Key ResponsibilitiesOperate and monitor bagging, packaging, and related production equipment to ensure efficient production output.Perform quality inspections and product checks throughout the manufacturing process.Identify equipment issues and perform basic mechanical troubleshooting to minimize downtime.Maintain continuous production flow by responding quickly to operational interruptions.Operate a sit-down forklift to load, unload, transport, and stack materials throughout the facility and yard.Move raw materials and finished products to designated production and storage locations.Conduct daily forklift and equipment inspections and report maintenance concerns.Work outdoors for a significant portion of the shift and safely perform duties in varying weather conditions.Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA guidelines.Maintain clean and organized work areas by performing housekeeping duties, including sweeping, cleaning equipment, and keeping walkways clear.Assist with general warehouse, production, and yard duties as needed.Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to support production goals.Required QualificationsPrevious experience operating manufacturing equipment, production machinery, or automated packaging systems.Sit-down forklift experience required.Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot minor equipment issues.Experience working in manufacturing, production, warehouse, or industrial environments.Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.Ability to work safely around moving equipment, machinery, dust, and noise.Experience loading, unloading, and moving materials in a warehouse or yard setting.Reliable attendance and ability to work scheduled shifts, including 12-hour shifts when required.Strong teamwork and communication skills.Physical RequirementsAbility to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift throughout the shift.Ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment.Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors during all seasons.Ability to handle physical labor and material movement as needed.Preferred QualificationsExperience with automated bagging, packaging, or robotic equipment.Prior experience in manufacturing, construction materials, aggregate, cement, or industrial production environments.Forklift certification (or ability to become certified)Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wharton, NJ.Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/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).Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in Wharton, NJ.Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Sep 25, 2026.