Job Title: Forklift Operator

Job Description

This role is responsible for safely operating a sit-down, double-fork forklift to keep the production floor stocked with materials from the warehouse and to return finished products to the warehouse for shipment. The position follows a 5am-5pm or 5pm–5am 4x4 schedule and may include an initial two-week training period on first shift. The forklift operator plays a key role in supporting production efficiency, inventory accuracy, and on-time shipping in a busy manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate a sit-down, double-fork forklift safely and efficiently in a manufacturing plant and warehouse environment.
• Maintain a continuous supply of materials to the production floor by transporting inventory from the warehouse to designated production areas.
• Remove finished product from the production floor and transport it back to the warehouse to stage and prepare for shipping.
• Perform material handling tasks including picking, loading, unloading, and moving products and raw materials as needed.
• Use RF scanners and basic computer systems to track inventory, confirm material movements, and support shipping and receiving activities.
• Support shipping and receiving operations by moving incoming and outgoing materials and products to appropriate locations.
• Follow established quality standards and line processes to ensure materials and finished goods are handled correctly and meet specifications.
• Monitor equipment condition, understand equipment needs and modifications, and promptly report any issues or safety concerns.
• Maintain a high level of organization on the production floor and in the warehouse to support efficient workflow and accurate inventory.
• Communicate effectively with team members and work collaboratively to meet production and shipping schedules.
• Adhere to all plant safety procedures, including safe forklift operation, proper lifting techniques, and awareness of warehouse traffic.
• Work assigned shifts, including weekends and mandatory overtime as needed to meet business demands.

Essential Skills

• At least 2 years of forklift driver experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience operating a sit-down forklift, preferably with double forks.
• Ability to work any shift, including evenings, nights, weekends, and mandatory overtime as required.
• Adequate visual, auditory, physical, and mental ability to operate forklift equipment safely.
• Capability to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Familiarity with quality standards and production line processes in a plant or manufacturing setting.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain a high level of organization and quality in all tasks.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well as part of a team.
• Basic computer skills to support inventory tracking and related tasks.
• Ability to navigate active warehouse environments with frequent forklift traffic and production activity.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with shipping and receiving operations in a warehouse or manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience with material handling tasks such as picking, staging, and moving inventory.
• Comfort using RF scanners for inventory management and material tracking.
• Understanding of equipment needs and potential modifications to support safe and efficient operation.
• Ability to adapt to changing production priorities and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and adherence to plant safety protocols.

Why Work Here?

This opportunity offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support long-term financial security and well-being. Employees receive company-paid health insurance coverage, access to a company-matched 401(k) plan, and participation in an active hourly pension plan. The organization values stability, invests in its workforce, and provides benefits that reward dedication and support a strong work-life foundation.

Work Environment

The role is based in a manufacturing plant and warehouse environment with frequent forklift traffic and active production lines. Associates work around moving equipment and are regularly exposed to production noise that is often loud. The position involves light to moderate lifting, including lifting up to 50 pounds, and requires consistent awareness of safety procedures. Work is performed indoors on concrete floors, with extended periods of standing, walking, and operating forklifts during a 5