Material Handler - 1st Shift

The Material Handler is responsible for ensuring the efficient flow of materials into, out of, and throughout the production floor. This is a hands-on, physically active role that supports uninterrupted manufacturing operations by keeping machines stocked, moving materials to and from workstations, and maintaining organized storage and warehouse areas. The Material Handler plays a key part in production efficiency, safety, and overall plant organization.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform manual and clerical tasks related to moving materials throughout the manufacturing facility.
  
• Maintain raw material levels at machines to ensure continuous operation with minimal downtime.
  
• Move full stack racks/pallets to WIP areas and transfer finished parts to the truck for transport.
  
• Deliver scrap boxes to the grinding area and maintain proper scrap flow.
  
• Communicate frequently with shift supervisors, leads, and machine operators to understand material needs and support uninterrupted machine uptime.
  
• Operate material-handling equipment such as hi-lo forklifts, pallet jacks, and dollies.
  
• Load and unload trucks in the designated loading area.
  
• Organize, load, and unload materials within the warehouse and storage areas to ensure safe and efficient material placement.
  
• Place materials onto and remove materials from pallets, trays, racks, and shelves.
  
• Take garbage to the dumpster as required during and at the end of the shift.
  
• Maintain all safety requirements, ensuring aisles remain clear, stack racks are safely positioned, and scrap boxes are correctly labeled.
  
• Follow all housekeeping procedures to maintain a clean, safe working environment.
  
• Comply with all quality, safety, and operational rules and regulations.
  
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Successful completion of the Advanced Plastiform Inc. forklift certification course.
  
• Ability to safely maneuver large equipment (including hi-lo forklifts) in tight and confined areas.
  
• Basic math and computer skills, including experience with barcode scanners.
  
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
  
• Ability to work efficiently under deadlines.
  

Education and Experience

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent experience.
  
• At least 2 years of material handling or forklift operation experience (sit-down, propane-powered required).
  

Physical Demands

This is a physically demanding role that requires strength and endurance. The employee will spend the majority of their time standing, lifting, bending, and moving materials. Regular use of hi-lo forklifts, pallet jacks, hand trucks, and other material-handling equipment is required. Good close, distant, and peripheral vision are essential for safely operating equipment.

Work Environment

The Material Handler spends most of their time on the production floor and in staging/warehouse areas. The environment includes loud noise levels, fluctuating temperatures, and occasional exposure to fumes or odors. The role requires frequent trips outdoors to move material or dispose of waste, exposing the employee to natural weather conditions.

PPE, including hearing protection and safety glasses, is required in production areas