What are the responsibilities and job description for the Forklift Operator position at American Welding Company?
About the Role
We’re looking for a reliable and safety-driven Material Handler/Forklift Operator to support daily operations in our structural steel fabrication shop. This role is dynamic and fast-moving. You’ll handle steel materials, load/unload trucks, operate forklifts and overhead cranes, and ensure production areas stay supplied and organized.
Key Responsibilities
· Safely operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment rated for weights up to 36,000 lbs
· Use overhead cranes, slings, chains, and rigging gear to move structural steel components
· Load and unload raw materials, finished assemblies, and equipment
· Basic math abilities to dynamically and safely calculate load weights
· Pull and stage steel for fabrication per shop drawings, cut lists, or supervisor direction
· Inspect incoming materials for quality and verify against delivery paperwork
· Keep yard and shop storage areas organized and accessible
· Assist production teams with material distribution during fabrication
· Follow all company safety rules, OSHA guidelines, and equipment operation protocols
· Perform daily equipment inspections and report issues immediately
· Support general shop tasks as needed
Required Qualifications
· High school diploma or GED
· 1 year experience in material handling
· Ability to read basic shop paperwork, tags, and load information
· Experience using tape measures
· Ability to lift 40 lbs and work in an industrial environment (noise, heat, and outdoor weather exposure)
· Strong situational awareness and safety mindset
· Dependable attendance and ability to work overtime when required, 5-6 days per week
Preferred Qualifications
· Experience in structural steel, metal fabrication, or heavy manufacturing
· Valid forklift certification (OSHA-compliant)
· Knowledge of steel shapes and sizes (beams, tube, angle, plate, etc.)
Work Environment
· Steel fabrication shop and outdoor yard
· Exposure to weather when loading/unloading
· Comfortable working around cranes, welders, grinders, and heavy equipment
· PPE required: safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection
Benefits
· Overtime available
· Health, vision, dental, and 50k life insurance
· Paid time off
· Retirement plan (Simple IRA w/3% employer match)
How to Apply
Apply directly through really or send your resume to kyle@awsteel.com
Job Type: Full-time
Expected hours: 40 – 50 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person