Forklift Operator

About the role

As a Planer Mill Infeed Forklift Operator, you’ll be essential in transporting materials and products throughout our sawmill. You’ll operate powerful forklifts and related equipment to move, stack, and organize lumber and supplies. Your role is crucial in maintaining production flow and ensuring everything is in the right place at the right time. If you have a knack for operating machinery and a keen eye for detail, this job at our sawmill in Camden, SC, might be for you. Join us and discover a pathway for career advancement where your hard work is recognized and rewarded.

Responsibilities

• Follow all safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and colleagues.
• Perform daily inspections on the forklift to ensure good working order.
• Plan and organize lumber to be loaded during shift.
• Load tilt-hoist (infeed) with designated lumber while keeping account of loads.
• Clean up the work area during and after shift.
• Work closely with other team members, including production staff and supervisors, to ensure smooth operations.
• Assist other operations in the mill as needed.

Experience and skills that will help you stand out

• At least 1–2 years of experience operating forklifts, with specific experience on heavy-duty forklifts, preferably in a sawmill or industrial setting.
• Strong understanding of forklift operation and safety practices.
• Ability to handle large, heavy materials with precision.
• Capability to work in a physically demanding environment, including lifting heavy objects, standing for long periods, and working in various weather conditions.
• Keen eye for detail to ensure accurate placement and secure handling of materials.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work well with others.

Safety requirements

• Must be a trained and qualified operator; thoroughly read the Operator’s Guide and observe all OSHA regulations and safe operating procedures.
• Operate the truck from the operator’s seat only; never place any part of your body between the mast upright and outside the operator’s compartment; always wear a seat belt while the machine is in operation.
• Be certain that transmission and hydraulic controls are in neutral and brakes are set before turning on the ignition; test controls for proper response before using the machine.
• Do not move the machine until the air system reaches recommended air pressure; air pressure is required for the service brakes.
• Never overload the machine; misuse or overloading can result in injury or damage.
• Do not handle unstable loads; avoid sudden starts and sharp turns; exercise extreme care when selecting levers for proper load function when high-tiering and stacking.
• Use extreme care when tilting the load forward or rearward, especially when high-tiering; tilt forward only when picking up a load.
• Start, stop, change direction, travel, and brake smoothly; slow down for turns and on uneven or slippery surfaces; always look in the direction of travel.
• When leaving the machine unattended, completely lower the attachment, shut off the power, set the parking brake, neutralize the controls, and remove the key; if parked on an incline, block the wheels.
• Carry no passengers on the machine, attachment, or load.
• Do not allow anyone near the machine or under elevated loads; ensure travel paths are clear before operation.
• Watch for end clearances and overhead obstructions; clear the yard of obstructions and avoid potholes and debris.