Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator

This role focuses on safely and efficiently handling materials within an automotive manufacturing environment. You will pull orders for shipment, support shipping and receiving activities, move parts between market areas and assembly lines, and ensure accurate and damage-free loading and unloading of trailers. The position requires consistent attention to safety, quality, and productivity while operating forklifts and tow motors.

Responsibilities

• Pull orders accurately and efficiently for shipment to customers, following established procedures.
• Manage direct ship ports, truck load reports, and other shipping functions as trained and required.
• Move parts from market areas to assembly lines and transfer finished goods from lines to designated storage or shipping locations.
• Supply presses with containers and move stampings from presses to the market area in a timely manner.
• Move trailers using a switcher truck as needed to support loading and unloading activities.
• Observe and follow all company rules, regulations, and safety policies at all times.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area by implementing 5S principles.
• Perform daily safety checks on tow motors before start-up and ensure equipment is in proper working condition.
• Inspect docks and platforms before use and engage dock locks before entering trailers with a forklift or tow motor.
• Follow all tow motor refueling procedures safely and consistently.
• Inspect racks for damage during unloading and cleaning, and remove old labels from empty racks.
• Inspect staged shipments for damaged or improperly adjusted racks that could cause parts to fall or become bent.
• Ensure no parts protrude above racks before moving them to prevent damage or safety hazards.
• Inspect the inside of trailers before loading for debris, damage, or hazards such as wood, metal, or holes in the roof.
• Pack service parts in a manner that prevents damage during transportation, following packaging instructions when available.
• Seek management guidance for irregular work or when packaging instructions are not available, and report any missing instructions.
• Verify that bar code labels attached to racks match the part numbers on manufacturing labels.
• Ensure bar code labels are in good condition for scanning and that labels are scanned according to work instructions.
• Ensure HOLD tags are moved to the appropriate HOLD or REWORK area and are not shipped to customers.
• Pull parts from stock in FIFO (first in, first out) order for all shipment staging activities.
• Accurately update and use the Kanban master board to maintain correct material flow to production lines.
• Maintain proper flow of press and small parts Kanban to support uninterrupted production.
• Support company goals and objectives by providing input and countermeasures to reduce line downtime caused by material handling issues.
• Maintain tow motor equipment to keep productivity stable and minimize unplanned downtime.
• Learn and consistently practice proper material handling functions, including supplying correct parts to assembly lines.
• Work overtime and weekends as required to meet production and shipping demands.
• Report production information when picking up and setting down racks as required by procedures.
• Follow rules and instructions posted on EH boards and other visual management tools.
• Place parts in fixed, designated locations to ensure compliance with storage and inventory guidelines.
• Demonstrate the ability and willingness to perform a variety of duties and adjust to changing priorities without loss of efficiency or composure.
• Lead by example in attendance, quality, attitude, and accountability.
• Perform other assignments as deemed necessary by management to support operations.

Essential Skills

• 34 years of experience working in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience operating forklifts, including sit-down forklifts and tow motors.
• Experience in shipping and receiving, order picking, material handling, loading, and packing.
• Ability to use RF scanners for picking, scanning, and inventory-related tasks.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs without mechanical assistance on a regular basis.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Good basic math knowledge to support counting, inventory, and documentation tasks.
• Good verbal and written communication skills to interact with team members and follow written instructions.
• Excellent organization and coordination skills to manage multiple tasks and maintain material flow.
• Ability and commitment to successfully complete tow motor training and certification prior to fully assuming the role.
• Willingness and ability to work a night shift schedule and to work overtime and weekends as required.
• Demonstrated reliability in attendance and accountability for work quality and safety.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in an automotive manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with Kanban systems and visual management tools such as master boards and EH boards.
• Experience with 5S or similar workplace organization methodologies.
• Comfort working with changing priorities while maintaining composure and efficiency.
• Demonstrated ability to lead by example in safety, quality, and work ethic.

Why Work Here?

You will join a production environment that values safety, organization, and continuous improvement. The team emphasizes clear processes, structured material flow, and strong communication to keep operations running smoothly. You can expect opportunities to expand your skills in material handling and manufacturing logistics, along with the chance to contribute ideas that improve productivity and reduce downtime. A strong focus on accountability, reliability, and teamwork creates a culture where your efforts are visible and appreciated.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Portland, TN.

The pay range for this position is $17.50 - $17.85/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Portland, TN.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 11, 2026.