Equipment Operator (Small Forklift Operator) - Req. ID: 4194

About the role

Denali is the leading organic recycling company on a mission to unlock the power of unused food and organics, transforming them into resources to feed, fuel and replenish the earth. Our work is essential to keeping water clean, reducing the need for new landfill capacity, building soil fertility, helping farmers be more resilient, and reducing society’s reliance on fossil fuels. Denali provides meaningful and measurable change for any business that handles food, creating value with our scalable solutions across the nation. Our services and products touch thousands of acres and businesses, millions of tons of organic material, and nearly every person who purchases and consumes food in the U.S.

The Equipment Operator (Small Forklift Operator) plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient and safe movement of materials within the facility located in ADVANCE, NC. This position is responsible for operating small forklifts in the pallet and loading yard to load, unload, and transport materials and goods. The operator will spend the majority of the workday outdoors and will also assist with general manual labor and other tasks throughout the facility as needed. The operator may be responsible for retrieving empty bag rolls and other materials from the baghouse and assisting in the baghouse when additional help is needed. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-conscious, comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and willing to jump in and help with additional tasks when needed. Attention to detail and adherence to safety procedures are essential to keeping materials moving safely and efficiently.

We are looking for a skilled and safety-conscious Forklift Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate a small forklift in the pallet and loading yard, load and unload trucks, and move materials throughout the facility. This is a hands-on position that involves both forklift operation and manual labor. The majority of the work will be performed outdoors. You will also assist with retrieving empty bag rolls and other materials from the baghouse and provide additional assistance in the baghouse when needed. The ideal candidate is reliable, works well with others, follows safety procedures, and is willing to take on additional duties as part of the team.

Responsibilities

• Operate small forklifts safely and efficiently in the pallet and loading yard.
• Load and unload trucks.
• Move pallets, materials, and products throughout the loading yard and facility.
• Stack and organize products and materials in a safe and orderly manner.
• Retrieve empty bag rolls and other materials from the baghouse as needed.
• Assist in the baghouse when additional help is needed.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report any malfunctions or safety issues.
• Assist with inventory counts and documentation as needed.
• Perform manual labor and other general facility duties as assigned.
• Follow company procedures, safety guidelines, and compliance standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area and loading yard.
• Work safely around trucks, forklifts, equipment, and other employees.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid forklift operator certification (or ability to obtain certification).
• Proven experience as a forklift operator or in a similar warehouse, yard, or industrial role.
• Familiarity with industrial equipment and warehouse safety procedures.
• Ability to lift heavy materials and perform manual labor throughout the workday.
• Ability to work outdoors for the majority of the shift and tolerate varying weather conditions.
• Basic math, reading, and writing skills.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Dependable attendance and ability to work the assigned schedule.

Skills

• Experience working in a manufacturing, warehouse, industrial, or outdoor yard environment.
• Previous experience loading and unloading trucks.
• Experience operating small forklifts or similar material-handling equipment.
• Familiarity with inventory management systems and basic computer skills.
• Additional certifications related to equipment operation or safety training.
• Strong communication skills to effectively coordinate with team members.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to assist with additional duties and tasks as needed.

Benefits

At Denali, the work we do begins and ends with you – our employees. That's why we strive to ELEVATE you to be your best, both at work and at home. Our benefits aren’t just about compensation; they’re part of a broader commitment to helping you thrive in all aspects of life.

• Comprehensive Medical: Self‑insured medical plans with competitive options including copay and HSA plans.
• Dental & Vision: Full coverage for you and your family.
• Generous 401(k) Match: Up to 4% match to help build your long‑term future.
• Company‑Paid Disability & Life Insurance: Long‑Term and Short‑Term Disability, AD&D and Life Insurance.
• Voluntary Life for Employees & Family: Optional additional coverage.
• Health Savings Plan: Designed to save on medical expenses.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Sick Time: Generous PTO, sick time, and family leave.
• 9 Paid Holidays: Throughout the year.
• Paid Weekly: Weekly paycheck.
• Professional Development: Free access to over 6,000 courses via the Ascend Employee Development Program.
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential counseling and resources.
• Wellness Program: Resources to keep you mentally, physically, and emotionally balanced.

Pay

Compensation details: 17‑18 Hourly Wage.

Schedule

Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–5:30 PM; Friday: 7