Forklift Operator 3rd Shift

About the role

This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of forklifts and other powered industrial equipment to support the loading, unloading, and staging of inbound and outbound shipments within Crown Bakeries’ shipping and production facility. The Forklift Operator plays a key role in ensuring product is accurately staged, loaded, and moved in compliance with food safety, GMP, and workplace safety standards. All duties are carried out in alignment with Crown Bakeries’ Vision, Mission, and Values.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate sit-down counterbalance forklifts, reach trucks, pallet jacks, and other powered industrial equipment to load, unload, and stage inbound and outbound shipments in compliance with all safety policies and OSHA regulations.
• Load outbound trailers accurately and efficiently according to BOLs, load plans, and Shipping Supervisor direction; ensure product counts match shipping documentation before trailer departure.
• Unload inbound deliveries of raw materials, packaging, and supplies; transport materials to designated storage areas in accordance with FIFO rotation and Materials Manager direction.
• Stage finished goods for outbound shipment in designated dock areas; ensure product is properly organized, labeled, and ready for loading according to the shipping schedule.
• Verify product quantities, lot codes, and labels against BOLs and shipping documents during loading and unloading; report any discrepancies, damages, or shortages to the Shipping Supervisor immediately.
• Conduct pre-shift and post-shift forklift inspections; complete all required inspection checklists and report any equipment defects, damage, or safety concerns to the Shipping Supervisor immediately.
• Maintain the cleanliness, organization, and safety of all dock areas, staging areas, and equipment operating zones; ensure aisles and dock doors are clear and accessible at all times.
• Follow all food safety, GMP, Food Defense, HACCP, and quality policies at all times; report any food safety or quality concerns to the Shipping Supervisor immediately.
• Comply with all OSHA forklift regulations and company safety policies including speed limits, pedestrian right-of-way, load capacity limits, and PPE requirements.
• Communicate effectively with the Shipping Supervisor, Shipping Clerks, and carrier drivers regarding shipment status, staging needs, and any loading or unloading issues.
• Assist with inventory counts and cycle count activities in the shipping area as directed by the Shipping Supervisor.
• Support the shipping team with general warehouse and shipping labor tasks as needed, including palletizing, wrapping, and labeling product.
• Assist with the onboarding and training of new Shipping Associates on forklift safety and dock procedures as directed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shipping Supervisor or Manager.

Qualifications and Skills

• Safe operation of sit-down counterbalance forklifts, reach trucks, pallet jacks, and other powered industrial equipment.
• Ability to load outbound trailers accurately according to BOLs, load plans, and supervisor direction.
• Ability to unload inbound deliveries and transport materials to storage areas following FIFO rotation.
• Proficiency in staging finished goods for outbound shipment and verifying product counts, lot codes, and labels.
• Experience conducting pre- and post-shift equipment inspections and reporting defects or safety concerns.
• Commitment to maintaining clean, organized, and safe dock and staging areas.
• Knowledge of food safety, GMP, Food Defense, HACCP, and quality policies.
• Adherence to OSHA forklift regulations and company safety policies including speed limits, pedestrian right-of-way, load capacity limits, and PPE requirements.
• Strong communication skills with Shipping Supervisors, Clerks, and carrier drivers.
• Ability to assist with inventory counts, cycle counts, palletizing, wrapping, and labeling.
• Willingness to help train and onboard new Shipping Associates on forklift safety and dock procedures.

Work Environment

This job operates in a production plant, shipping area, and office environment. The employee is occasionally exposed to facility elements such as noise, dust, fumes, and odors. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.