Forklift Operator

The Forklift Operator is in charge of loading and unloading materials, both incoming and outgoing of the facility. The Forklift Operator is responsible for maintaining the workflow throughout different production plants in a safe manner and must become an expert in moving materials from one location to another without damage.

JOB FUNCTIONS/DUTIES

• Operate material handling equipment such as manual carts, pallet jacks, and forklifts.
• Load and unload materials, products, and supplies with precise maneuvering.
• Stage, move, and distribute materials to appropriate departments based on production schedules.
• Verify material quantities, product identification, and order accuracy.
• Perform visual inspections of raw materials and finished goods; remove damaged or non-conforming material as needed.
• Doff packages, handle rolls, fiber, and packaging materials as required by department needs.
• Maintain proper knowledge of tube cores, packaging materials, raw stock areas, and finished goods locations.
• Support multiple departments including but not limited to Production, Lamination, Shipping, Maintenance, and Warehousing.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas in all material handling zones.
• Read and interpret production schedules, work orders, and loading documentation.
• Follow all lock-out/tag-out procedures and safety protocols.
• Report unsafe conditions, damaged inventory, or equipment issues to the supervisor immediately.
• Communicate effectively with team members and leadership to ensure smooth material flow.
• Assist with inventory counts, tracking, and basic material documentation.
• Must be able to differentiate between different products and keep good inventory.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

• Accuracy of material movement and order fulfillment
• Timeliness of material staging and loading
• Safety compliance and housekeeping standards
• Equipment handling and care
• Attendance, reliability, and teamwork
• Communication effectiveness

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED (preferred)
• 3-5 years of experience operating forklifts and heavy machinery
• Forklift certification required (or ability to obtain)
• Ability to read, write, and interpret work instructions and documents
• Ability to perform basic math functions
• Ability to lift up to 80lbs regularly
• Must be able to perform under pressure
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong commitment to safety

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Indoor and outdoor work environments
• Exposure to production equipment, dust, heat, noise, and moving machinery
• Physically demanding role involving continuous movement, lifting, bending, and standing
• Uneven surfaces, ramps, stairs, and industrial flooring