Forklift Operator US

About the role

Reporting to the department Manager, the Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of powered industrial trucks.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload trucks with raw materials and/or finished goods.
• Supply raw materials to production lines as required.
• Remove finished goods from production lines.
• Acquire and maintain in‑house forklift certification.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines and use required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Follow health and safety policies/procedures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Comply with food quality and food safety guidelines per Refresco, customer, and/or governing bodies (e.g., SQF) standards.
• Transport raw materials from incoming trucks to designated areas and validate quantities using Blind Count Sheets or SAP transactions on the forklift computer.
• Operate the SAP database through Vehicle Mounted Units (VMUs) installed on forklifts to load/unload trucks and perform other warehouse functions.
• Operate powered industrial trucks in a high‑paced environment while maintaining forklift certification.
• Perform pre‑trip forklift inspections and follow battery or propane tank changing procedures safely.
• Carry out any other driving activities as directed by leadership.
• Clean and maintain work areas throughout the shift.
• Represent the company positively at all times.
• May perform production machine operation duties.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent (GED).
• 3+ years of work experience in a manufacturing environment (preferred).

Qualifications

• Forklift certification from an approved Refresco trainer.
• Ability to read and write job instructions in the required language(s) for the location.
• Capable of performing basic computer functions.
• Demonstrated basic operation of powered industrial trucks.

Skills

• Problem‑solving: quickly identify and resolve operational issues.
• Technology: familiarity with warehouse management software for inventory tracking and logistics.
• Technology: basic computer skills for operating production software and logging data.
• Cognitive: ability to analyze data and process parameters to optimize production.
• Safety and risk management: participation in safety audits and inspections to ensure a safe working environment.
• Coordination and dexterity: