Material Handler Equipment Operator

About the Role

Columbia Vehicle Group is seeking an experienced Material Handler Equipment Operator (Cherry Picker) to support material movement, storage, picking, and delivery activities within our manufacturing and warehouse operations. This position is responsible for safely and efficiently operating a cherry picker/order picker and other authorized material handling equipment to retrieve, move, stage, and deliver materials and components. The successful candidate must have a strong commitment to safety, accuracy, productivity, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a cherry picker/order picker to retrieve and move materials, components, and products from designated storage locations.
• Pick materials from elevated rack locations accurately and efficiently.
• Load, unload, move, stage, and store materials according to established procedures.
• Deliver materials and components to designated production and warehouse locations in a timely manner.
• Verify part numbers, quantities, locations, and other identifying information before moving or issuing material.
• Complete required equipment inspections at the beginning of the shift and report safety concerns, damage, or mechanical issues immediately.
• Follow all company safety procedures and requirements for powered industrial equipment.
• Maintain safe operating speeds and remain alert to pedestrians, equipment, racks, and other potential hazards.
• Maintain accurate inventory movement and material transaction records using applicable systems, scanners, or documentation.
• Assist with cycle counts, inventory verification, and identification of inventory discrepancies as needed.
• Maintain organized and clean aisles, racks, staging areas, and workspaces.
• Properly secure materials during movement and storage to prevent product damage or injury.
• Report damaged materials, incorrect inventory, unsafe conditions, and equipment issues to supervision.
• Work cooperatively with Production, Shipping, Receiving, Inventory Control, and other departments to support operational requirements.
• Follow established work instructions, standard operating procedures, and quality requirements.
• Perform other material handling and warehouse duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience operating a cherry picker/order picker is required.
• Previous material handling, warehouse, distribution, or manufacturing experience.
• Demonstrated ability to safely operate material handling equipment in narrow aisles and elevated storage areas.
• Ability to read and understand part numbers, inventory locations, work instructions, safety information, and related documentation.
• Ability to accurately count, pick, stage, and verify materials.
• Basic computer and/or RF scanner skills preferred.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining effective communication with supervisors and team members.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to workplace safety.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing or warehouse environment and adjust to changing priorities.

Equipment Experience

Candidates must have hands-on experience operating a cherry picker/order picker. Experience with additional powered industrial equipment, such as forklifts, reach trucks, pallet jacks, or similar material handling equipment, is preferred. Candidates may be required to successfully complete Columbia Vehicle Group's equipment evaluation, safety training, and authorization process before independently operating powered industrial equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently standing, walking, bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and handling materials throughout the shift.
• Working at elevated heights while properly using required fall-protection equipment.
• Getting on and off material handling equipment throughout the workday.
• Using hands and arms to operate equipment controls and handle materials.
• Lifting, carrying, and moving materials consistent with the requirements of the assigned work area.
• Maintaining the visual awareness and coordination necessary to safely operate powered material handling equipment.

Work Environment

This position works primarily in a manufacturing and warehouse environment. Employees may be exposed to moving equipment, elevated storage areas, noise, temperature variations, and other conditions typical of an industrial facility. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) and all applicable safety procedures must be followed at all times.