Baler Forklift Operator

About the role

As a Baler / Forklift Operator at RWB Thrift, you play a crucial role in the efficient operation of the baler machine and forklift activities. Your primary responsibilities include collecting, sorting, and feeding materials such as clothing, textiles, cardboard, or plastics into the baler's hopper. You will monitor the machine's controls to ensure it applies the appropriate amount of pressure to compact materials into tight bales, and securely tie and label resulting bales before moving them to designated storage areas using a forklift. Safety is paramount, and you will follow strict guidelines and protocols to prevent accidents and maintain equipment. Your role not only maximizes storage space and streamlines operations but also supports the thrift store's sustainability efforts by facilitating recycling and waste reduction.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain baler machines and forklifts to efficiently process and transport materials such as clothing, textiles, cardboard, or plastics
• Feed materials into the baler's hopper and monitor controls to ensure proper compaction into tight bales
• Securely tie and label bales before transporting them to designated storage areas using a forklift
• Operate and maintain various equipment, including baler machines, trash compactors, and janitorial tools, ensuring they function safely and efficiently
• Organize and sort donated items, ensuring accurate documentation and placement in designated areas
• Follow strict safety protocols and guidelines to prevent accidents and maintain a safe work environment
• Communicate effectively with team members, following store procedures and coordinating operations to streamline processes
• Perform routine maintenance on equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in work areas, including baler and storage areas
• Collaborate with team members to achieve production targets and support thrift store operations
• Support recycling and waste reduction efforts in alignment with company policies and procedures

Requirements

• Previous thrift, retail, warehouse, or back of house experience is preferred, but not required
• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Ability to safely perform job functions in accordance with ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting both qualitative and quantitative productivity requirements
• Physical strength: ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 70 lbs, frequently exert up to 25 lbs. of force, and constantly apply negligible force when handling objects
• Endurance: able to stand for extended periods of time
• Manual dexterity: proficient in performing repetitive motions such as extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction and working primarily with fingers rather than the whole hand or arm
• Fine motor skills: skilled in tasks involving seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with hand or hands
• Balance and agility: capable of maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling on narrow, slippery, or erratically moving surfaces, as well as maintaining balance when performing agile tasks
• Visual acuity: possesses clarity of vision at 20 inches or less and 20 feet or more
• Work environment: dynamic, busy atmosphere; ability to thrive in a fast-paced and busy environment essential
• Noise level: noisy due to bustling activity on sales floor and production area; ability to work effectively in a noisy environment required
• Lighting: bright lighting throughout front and back of store; ability to work effectively in a bright environment required
• Interactions with others: regular interactions with customers, donors, and coworkers; effective communication and interpersonal skills required
• Flexibility: high degree of flexibility; may be asked to switch tasks or departments based on operational needs; expected to work in all areas as assigned
• Language requirements: not required to communicate exclusively in English; however, fundamental understanding of written and spoken English may be necessary for comprehending instructions and communicating verbally and in writing

Pay

$17.00 to $19.00 per hour