Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator - 1st Shift - $18/hr

This role focuses on safely and efficiently operating stand-up forklifts and material handling equipment to move corrugated packaging materials and finished goods within a clean, well-organized warehouse. Working on 1st shift from 5:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, you help ensure accurate picking, tagging, and inventory control that supports on-time delivery and high-quality customer service.

Responsibilities

• Operate stand-up forklifts and other material handling equipment to move raw materials and finished corrugated packaging products throughout the warehouse.
• Review printed pick lists and verify inventory availability before pulling orders.
• Pick parts and materials accurately according to pick lists, using RF scanners and basic data entry tools as needed.
• Ensure all inventory is correctly tagged and labeled to maintain clear identification and traceability.
• Hand count inventory on the warehouse floor to confirm quantities and support cycle counts or spot checks.
• Verify that quantities, item numbers, and labels match the physical inventory and pick lists.
• Perform basic computer work and general data entry to update inventory records and shipping documentation.
• Cross-check parts and materials against pick lists to maintain high accuracy and prevent shipping errors.
• Maintain mistake-free work by applying strong attention to detail in all picking, labeling, and counting tasks.
• Support overall accuracy and efficiency within the Shipping & Receiving department by following established processes and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with team members and follow instructions from supervisors to meet daily production and shipping goals.
• Follow all safety guidelines, including proper use of personal protective equipment, and participate in required safety training.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of recent experience operating a stand-up forklift in a warehouse or production environment.
• Demonstrated ability to operate material handling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Experience using RF scanners for picking or inventory tasks.
• Ability to read and interpret printed pick lists and follow written instructions.
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on maintaining mistake-free work.
• Basic computer skills and ability to perform general data entry.
• Capability to hand count inventory accurately and verify quantities against documentation.
• Reliability in adhering to a 1st shift schedule: 5:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
• Ability to work effectively in a shipping and receiving or warehouse environment.
• Steel-toed boots, required as part of safety and dress code.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous material handling experience in a warehouse or manufacturing setting.
• Prior order picking experience using pick lists and RF scanners.
• Familiarity with corrugated packaging, paper, or board manufacturing environments.
• Comfort working in a union environment and following established procedures.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing safety and equipment training.

Why Work Here?

You will work in a clean, well-organized, and temperature-controlled facility that prioritizes safety, accuracy, and efficiency. After 90 days, you have the opportunity to join a union that offers strong health benefits and long-term stability. The environment supports teamwork, professional growth through safety and equipment training, and a consistent weekday schedule that promotes work-life balance.

Work Environment

The role is based in a manufacturing and warehouse facility that produces board and paper products for the art industry and custom corrugated packaging solutions. This is a union environment with a clean, well-lit, and temperature-controlled warehouse. You work 1st shift from 5:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The work involves operating stand-up forklifts, using RF scanners, handling corrugated materials and finished packaging, and performing basic computer and data entry tasks. Steel-toed boots are required, and you receive safety training to ensure proper equipment use and adherence to all safety procedures. The setting emphasizes organization, accuracy, and safe material handling throughout the Shipping & Receiving and warehouse areas.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wheeling, 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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Wheeling,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 14, 2026.