Experienced Forklift Operator (Structural Steel Loader)

Job Description

Job Description

Experienced Forklift Operator (Structural Steel Loader)

Location: Plattsburgh, NY

Jeffords Steel and Engineering Company

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Job description :

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Forklift Operator with experience in handling structural steel to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for safely and efficiently loading, some unloading, and transporting heavy structural steel components within yard or facility if needed. This role requires precision, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to workplace safety.

Key Responsibilities

Material Handling: Operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment to load, unload, and transport structural steel beams, columns, and other components to and from trucks, storage areas, or production zones.

Inspection and Preparation: Inspect steel components for damage or defects before loading, ensuring proper securing and balancing of loads to prevent shifting during transport.

Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols, including OSHA regulations, company policies, and industry standards for handling heavy materials. Wear appropriate PPE and maintain a safe work environment.

Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine checks and basic maintenance on forklifts, reporting any mechanical issues to supervisors promptly.

Inventory Organization: Work with shop managers and supervisors to verify load specifications, confirm material quantities, and ensure accurate documentation of shipments.

Site Organization: Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring proper storage and stacking of steel components to optimize space and accessibility.

Qualifications

Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience operating forklifts, with at least 1 year handling structural steel or similar heavy materials.

Certification: Valid forklift operator certification (OSHA-compliant preferred) but will need to be recertified by Jeffords Steel.

Skills:

Proficiency in operating various types of forklifts, including heavy-duty models capable of lifting 14,000 lbs.

Strong understanding of load balancing, weight distribution, and rigging techniques for structural steel.

Ability to read and interpret load charts, some blueprint information, or shipping manifests.

Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in outdoor or industrial environments (exposure to weather, noise, and dust).

Safety Awareness: Proven track record of safe forklift operation and knowledge of industry-specific safety standards.

Communication: Strong verbal communication skills to coordinate with team members and supervisors.

Preferred: Experience with overhead cranes, rigging, or other heavy equipment is a plus.

Work Environment

Work is performed outdoor yard setting.

May involve exposure to varying weather conditions, some loud noises, and heavy machinery.

Shift work, including evenings or Saturday mornings, may be required based on project demands.

This is a full-time position. Benefits are available, and include vacation time, sick pay, health insurance, life insurance, 401k and profit sharing!

We invite you to come be a part of a strong growing company!

RECRUITERS AND TEMP AGENCIES NEED NOT CONTACT THIS JOB POSTER

Benefits:

• 401(k)/Profit Sharing
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Life insurance
• Paid time off