Freight Handler/Forklift Operator

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks, along with other appropriate Material Handling Equipment (MHE).
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors, trailers, and designated warehouse areas.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
• Assist drivers with loading and unloading activities following dock and safety procedures.
• Label, scan, and track freight using handheld scanning devices and company systems.
• Identify damaged freight and promptly report issues, unsafe conditions, or equipment concerns to supervisory personnel.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized dock environment.
• Perform tasks under appropriate supervision.
• Safeguard oversized, high-value, or complex freight.
• Support dock productivity, workflow efficiency, and overall operational goals.
• Work assigned schedules, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime.
• Assist with dock coordination, workflow management, and problem resolution.
• Prioritize freight and coordinate task assignments, sometimes acting in a lead capacity.
• Train, mentor, and support the development of other Material Handlers.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent preferred but not required.
• Certification/Licensure: Valid forklift certification/licensure required.
• Experience: 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience required.
• Communication: Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing.
• Technology: Willingness and ability to learn and use basic computer systems, handheld scanners, and freight-tracking devices.
• Equipment: Ability to safely operate material handling equipment (MHE) such as pallet jacks, dollies, hand trucks, order pickers, pallet riders, conveyors, dock plates, dock levelers, sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks (with company-assisted certification/training).
• Physical Demands: Extensive standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and twisting for 8-12 hours per shift, with the ability to lift, push, pull, and carry freight up to 50lbs without assistance, with occasional lifting of freight up to 75lbs with assistance or mechanical aids.
• Environment: Ability to work safely around moving equipment, vehicles, and freight in a non-climate-controlled environment, including frequent exposure to temperature extremes, occasional outdoor work, and exposure to precipitation, exhaust, dust, and moderate to loud noise.