Forklift Operator

Role Summary

The Forklift Operator safely moves raw materials, supplies, work-in-process, and finished products throughout the manufacturing facility. This position supports production by keeping materials available, maintaining organized storage areas, and assisting with shipping, receiving, and inventory accuracy.

Main Tasks

• Operate forklifts and other authorized material-handling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Deliver raw materials, packaging, and supplies to production lines according to operational needs.
• Transport finished products from production areas to designated storage or shipping locations.
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, and containers, verifying materials against shipping and receiving documents.
• Inspect loads for damage, stability, proper labeling, and accurate quantities; report discrepancies promptly.
• Stack and store materials securely in designated locations while following equipment capacity limits and storage procedures.
• Complete required equipment inspections before use and report defects, damage, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Follow facility traffic rules, pedestrian safety practices, and loading dock procedures.
• Use scanners, inventory systems, and required paperwork to record material movements accurately.
• Assist with cycle counts, physical inventories, and stock rotation.
• Keep aisles, emergency exits, loading docks, and work areas clean and clear.
• Follow company safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment.
• Communicate with production, warehouse, shipping, and receiving teams to support workflow and prevent material shortages.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous forklift experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment preferred.
• Ability to complete required employer-provided forklift training and demonstrate safe operation before operating equipment independently.
• Ability to read and understand work instructions, product labels, safety information, and shipping documents.
• Basic math skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to use handheld scanners or learn inventory tracking systems.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
• Reliable attendance and ability to work the assigned schedule, including overtime as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently sit while operating equipment and stand or walk while performing material-handling duties.
• Safely enter and exit equipment and use controls requiring coordinated hand and foot movements.
• Bend, reach, and perform manual material handling as required.
• Lift or move materials within established job requirements, using assistance or equipment when needed.
• Work in a manufacturing environment that may include noise, dust, temperature changes, and moving equipment.
• Perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.