Forklift Operator (1st Shift)

About the role

CJ Logistics delivers integrated and multimodal logistics services, connecting every corner of the world via air, sea and land. As a lead logistics partner (LLP), third‑party logistics provider (3PL) and supply chain consultant, we help customers leverage supply chain management as a competitive advantage, reducing total system costs, transforming business processes, improving service and facilitating growth and change. With a focus on social responsibility and sustainability through growth with customers and communities, we prioritize the wellbeing of the end consumer, our customers and our employees. CJ Logistics is responsible for the North America region, specializing in solutions for regulated industries such as food and beverage, consumer‑packaged goods, healthcare and medical supplies, and tire and automotive.

The Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of forklifts, electric pallet jacks (EPJ), and other material handling equipment (MHE) to ensure accurate order fulfillment and inventory management in support of daily warehouse operations. This role supports daily warehouse operations through loading, unloading, picking, and consolidation of products while upholding CJ Logistics America’s safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate stand‑up and/or sit‑down forklifts to move, load, unload, pick, put away, and consolidate products.
• Conduct manual case picking and other material handling tasks as needed for order fulfillment; may utilize other forms of MHE such as electric pallet jacks.
• Replenish inventory in appropriate storage bays and maintain accurate product placement.
• Prepare products for shipment, including palletizing, wrapping, and staging in accordance with shipping requirements.
• Assist with physical inventories and cycle counts as directed.
• Perform visual inspections and quality checks on all products and outbound shipments to ensure accuracy and prevent damage.
• Conduct audits of outbound loads, resolving labeling discrepancies and addressing shortages.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment, adhering to all company policies, OSHA safety requirements, and PPE protocols.
• Participate in required safety and compliance training, including forklift and hazardous material handling.
• Coordinate with warehouse associates, leads, and supervisors to achieve daily productivity and service targets.
• Communicate product defects, inventory issues, or operational concerns promptly to management.
• Demonstrate positive teamwork and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent – or equivalent relevant experience.
• At least six (6) months of related warehouse or distribution experience.
• Basic math and reading skills.
• Ability to operate material handling equipment including, but not limited to a forklift and electric pallet jack.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment.
• Effective problem‑solving and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform essential duties while adhering to safety and operational standards.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Preferred: previous experience in a high‑volume, fast‑paced warehouse or logistics environment.
• Preferred: prior experience with multiple types of forklifts and material handling equipment.
• Preferred: prior experience with warehouse management systems (WMS).
• Preferred: familiarity with electronic record‑keeping and label printing systems.
• Preferred: experience collaborating with customer operations and inventory teams.
• Physical requirements: ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods (up to 10 hours), sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as needed; climb stairs, ladders, and/or scaffolds at various heights; reach with hands and arms overhead and below waist level; lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds (occasionally heavier items with or without assistance); use fine motor skills/manual dexterity to operate equipment, tools, or keyboards; frequently use hands and fingers to handle, grasp, or control objects; see clearly at close range and at distance, with peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus; hear and understand verbal instructions, alarms, and equipment signals in a noisy environment.
• Work environment: warehouse and distribution center with varying temperatures (including refrigerated or non‑climate‑controlled areas), loud noise levels, dust, odors, airborne particles, concrete flooring, moving mechanical equipment, frequent exposure to powered industrial vehicles and warehouse traffic; required PPE includes steel‑toed shoes, safety glasses, and high‑visibility vests.
• Location/remote eligibility: on‑site only.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings
• Paid time off
• Tuition assistance
• Early access to earned wages
• High performance culture with a continuous improvement mindset
• Opportunities for advancement

Pay

Base hourly wage: $20.28 per hour. No shift differential. Incentive eligible: biweekly productivity bonus.

Schedule

1st Shift Monday‑Friday, 6:30 am – 3:00 pm. Work hours may vary by shift assignment and may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime based on business needs.