Forklift Operator job description

A Forklift Operator is a skilled professional responsible for safely operating industrial forklifts to move, load, and unload materials within warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. This role is critical for maintaining efficient inventory flow, ensuring workplace safety, and directly supporting supply chain operations that drive business productivity.

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What is a Forklift Operator?

A Forklift Operator is a certified material handling professional who operates powered industrial trucks to transport goods and materials throughout various work environments. These trained specialists are essential personnel in logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, and construction industries. They must possess specific certifications (such as OSHA certification in the United States) and demonstrate proficiency in handling heavy equipment while adhering to strict safety protocols. The position requires physical stamina, spatial awareness, and attention to detail to navigate tight spaces and manage inventory efficiently.

What does a Forklift Operator do?

Forklift Operators perform multiple critical functions including loading and unloading trucks, moving materials between loading docks and storage areas, and organizing warehouse inventory. They carefully maneuver forklifts to lift, position, and place pallets and products in designated locations while maintaining balance and control of loads. Additional responsibilities include performing equipment inspections before each shift, reporting any mechanical issues, maintaining accurate inventory records, and following all safety guidelines to prevent accidents. They frequently collaborate with warehouse teams to ensure timely material movement and support overall operational efficiency.

Job Overview

We are seeking a skilled Forklift Operator to join our warehouse/distribution center team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for loading/unloading materials, transporting goods within the facility, and maintaining inventory accuracy while adhering to all safety protocols and operational procedures in a fast-paced logistics environment.

Forklift Operator responsibilities include:

1. Operate sit-down and stand-up forklifts to move, load, and unload materials from trucks and storage areas 2. Transport materials to production areas or shipping docks using appropriate equipment 3. Perform routine equipment inspections and complete pre-shift safety checklists 4. Maintain accurate inventory records through proper scanning and documentation procedures 5. Stack and organize materials in racks, shelves, or designated storage areas following established patterns 6. Identify and report any safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, or damaged products immediately 7. Collaborate with warehouse team members to meet daily production and shipping targets 8. Follow all OSHA regulations and company safety policies while operating equipment
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Must-Have Requirements

1. Valid forklift operator certification (OSHA compliant) 2. Minimum 2 years of experience operating forklifts in warehouse or distribution settings 3. Ability to lift 50+ pounds repeatedly throughout shift 4. Basic math skills for inventory counting and order verification 5. High school diploma or GED equivalent 6. Clean driving record and reliable transportation 7. Ability to work standing for 8-12 hour shifts 8. Demonstrated understanding of warehouse safety protocols

Preferred Qualifications

1. 3+ years of experience in similar warehouse environment 2. Experience with warehouse management systems (WMS) such as SAP or Oracle 3. Experience operating multiple types of material handling equipment (reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks) 4. Previous experience in food distribution, manufacturing, or cold storage environments 5. RF scanner and inventory management system proficiency 6. Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, and various shifts as needed

Bonus Skills

1. Certified for hazardous materials handling 2. Bilingual abilities (Spanish/English) 3. Experience with inventory cycle counting procedures 4. Knowledge of lean manufacturing or 5S methodology 5. Previous certification in additional heavy equipment operation 6. Basic mechanical aptitude for minor equipment troubleshooting

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