Distribution Center Warehouse Equipment Operator

About the Role

Pet Food Express is seeking Warehouse Equipment Operators to join our 197,000 sq ft. Distribution Center in Oakley, CA. This role focuses on safely unloading, receiving, and moving inventory using warehouse equipment including forklifts, reach trucks, and order pickers (also known as cherry pickers). Reporting to the Inbound Distribution Supervisor, Equipment Operators ensure products and materials are received, handled, and moved efficiently throughout the warehouse to support daily operational goals.

This posting supports current and upcoming warehouse openings specific to equipment operators within the distribution center. The ideal candidate takes pride in working safely, can work effectively in a fast-paced warehouse environment, is a team player, and is comfortable operating powered equipment.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 6am – 2:30pm or 7am-3:30pm with the ability to work overtime based on business needs. This is a non-exempt, temporary full-time position. Initial hire will be through a 3rd party agency. The position may become permanent, be extended, or be cancelled at any time. Employees will be evaluated at or around 30 days of employment to determine eligibility for conversion to a full-time permanent position with Pet Food Express.

Pay

The starting pay rates for equipment operators follow a tiered pay scale:

• Warehouse Forklift Operator: $21.00/hour – $21.50/hour upon conversion
• Warehouse Order Picker Operator: $21.50/hour – $22.25/hour upon conversion
• Warehouse Reach Truck Operator: $22.00/hour – $23.00/hour upon conversion

Pet Food Express determines salary based on many factors, including but not limited to, local market rate, the qualified pool of candidates, internal compensation practices, and a candidate’s actual skills and experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts, order pickers, reach trucks, and other warehouse equipment safely
• Manage high-volume receiving dock using sit-down forklifts to transport large pallets to unload shipments out of inbound trailers or containers
• Stage and put away incoming inventory to designated storage racks and zones using reach trucks or cherry pickers to navigate narrow aisles and store packages in high vertical racks
• Perform inventory verification using scanners to check barcodes and ensure shipment accuracy
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and operate equipment according to safety standards

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of warehouse equipment-operation experience preferred
• Previous forklift/equipment certification is a plus but not required; in-house training and recertification will be provided
• Experience selecting large-scale orders in a warehouse or distribution environment and knowledge of warehouse practices and procedures preferred
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (occasionally 75 lbs) repetitively
• Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule including overtime, weekends, and holidays as required
• Ability to reach, lift, stoop, bend, and perform extensive standing and walking (including stairs) throughout shift
• Comfortable working in an environment with forklifts, machinery, large trucks, and other standard warehouse equipment
• Basic computer/technical skills to troubleshoot equipment
• Highly dependable with a strong commitment to punctuality and attendance
• Eagerness to learn and participate in different functions of the Distribution Center
• Able to communicate effectively, take direction, apply feedback, and follow through
• Enjoys working in a team environment and can build cooperative, mutually respectful working relationships
• Self-starter with a positive attitude
• At least 18 years of age

Benefits

For Eligible Full-Time Permanent Employees:

• Career growth opportunities and potential career paths within the company
• Continued learning, including development programs, certifications, and leadership training
• Generous in-store employee discount that extends to your family
• Health benefits with FSA options, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k with employer match
• Employee referral bonuses
• Competitive Paid Time Off

About the Company

Pet Food Express is a leading California-based pet specialty retailer with a passion for improving the lives of pets and their owners. Our philosophy revolves around the belief that pets are part of the family, deserving of the best care possible. Since our inception, Pet Food Express has been committed to making a positive impact on the communities we serve by promoting responsible pet ownership, supporting various animal welfare initiatives, and ensuring pets are happy, healthy, and homed. With over 60 locations across the state, Pet Food Express has become a trusted destination for pet parents seeking high-quality products and personalized advice from knowledgeable and dedicated staff.