Forklift Operator

About the role

Under general supervision, the Forklift Operator will ensure safe and accurate receipt, storage, and shipment of food products utilizing equipment including, but not limited to, sit‑down and stand‑up forklifts, high‑reach forklifts, stand‑up straddle trucks, walk‑behinds, pallet jacks, double pallet jacks and radio‑frequency equipment.

Responsibilities

• Efficiently and safely load and unload freight using proper equipment to move products to storage throughout the facility.
• Effectively stack and store merchandise, pick and assemble orders for shipment, check freight for accuracy, damage, and infestation, while labeling, sorting, wrapping, packing, and repacking as directed by management.
• In compliance with OSHA standards, operate equipment (sit‑down and stand‑up forklifts, high‑reach forklifts, stand‑up straddle trucks, walk‑behinds, single/double pallet jacks and RF scanners) in a manner that promotes safety.
• Meet production standards while maintaining a clean and orderly work environment.
• Perform other duties such as inventory, cleaning, or forklift battery changes and may be required to perform additional tasks outside of normal responsibilities as needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) preferred.
• Three (3) months of related work experience preferred.

Preferred qualifications

• Ability to work independently.
• Willingness to work overtime, evenings, or weekends as needed and to adhere to attendance policies.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.

Physical requirements

• Frequent ability to drive a forklift, sit, hear, talk, use close vision, and manipulate controls with hands.
• Occasional use of distance vision, standing, kneeling, or crouching.
• Work in spaces with 55 inches of headroom.
• Tolerate controlled temperatures ranging from 32 °F to –45 °F and outside ambient conditions (heat, cold, precipitation).
• Access heights up to 30 ft and elevated products from inside a safety cage.
• Stand for up to 5 hours during an 8‑12 hour shift.
• Lift boxes weighing 10‑55 lb from ground level to 80 inches and lift up to 70 lb to 50 inches when rebuilding pallets.
• Carry product a distance of 6 ft without mechanical assistance.
• Wear protective clothing, boots, headgear, and gloves suitable for cold environments.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Maintain reasonably regular and punctual attendance consistent with ADA, FMLA, and other applicable standards.

Work environment & compensation

The estimated compensation for this position is $19.00 hourly; the rate may vary based on work location.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Additional benefits may vary depending on the specific position and collective bargaining agreement