TAYLOR FORK LIFT OPERATOR

Position Summary

Beasley Forest Products is seeking a dependable and safety-focused Taylor Forklift Operator to join our Dry Kilns Department in Hazlehurst, Georgia.

This position is responsible for safely operating a large-capacity Taylor forklift to move lumber packages throughout the Dry Kiln area. The operator will transport, load, unload, stack, and organize lumber while maintaining a safe and efficient flow of material through the drying process.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience operating heavy industrial forklifts or similar equipment in a lumber, sawmill, manufacturing, or industrial environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Safely operate a Taylor forklift and other assigned material-handling equipment.
• Transport packages of lumber to and from the dry kilns and designated storage areas.
• Load and unload lumber packages safely and efficiently.
• Properly position and stack lumber while maintaining stable and organized loads.
• Move green and dry lumber throughout the Dry Kilns Department as directed.
• Maintain an efficient flow of lumber to help support production and kiln schedules.
• Inspect loads before transporting them to ensure they are stable and safe to move.
• Perform daily pre-shift inspections of the forklift and report any mechanical or safety concerns immediately.
• Monitor equipment during operation and report unusual noises, leaks, damage, or performance issues.
• Maintain awareness of pedestrians, equipment, structures, and other hazards while operating the forklift.
• Follow established traffic patterns, speed limits, safety procedures, and plant rules.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas around the Dry Kilns Department.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, kiln personnel, and other equipment operators.
• Follow all company safety policies and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Assist with other duties throughout the department or facility when requested by management.
• Perform additional duties as assigned based on operational and production needs.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Previous experience operating a Taylor forklift, large-capacity forklift, or similar heavy industrial equipment is preferred.
• Previous experience in a sawmill, lumber manufacturing facility, dry kiln operation, or other industrial environment is preferred.
• Must be able to safely handle and maneuver large and heavy lumber packages.
• Must have good judgment, depth perception, and awareness of surroundings when operating equipment.
• Must be able to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Must be dependable and maintain regular and punctual attendance.
• Must be able to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Must be willing to perform duties outside of the normal job assignment when requested by management.
• Must follow all company safety procedures and operating guidelines.

Physical Requirements

This position requires working in an active industrial lumber-manufacturing environment. Employees must be able to:

• Sit and operate a forklift for extended periods.
• Frequently climb into and out of heavy equipment.
• Walk, stand, bend, stoop, reach, and climb stairs as needed.
• Safely work around moving machinery and heavy equipment.
• Work in areas that may be hot, cold, dusty, noisy, or exposed to outdoor weather conditions.
• Wear required personal protective equipment at all times.

Work Schedule

• Must be available to work the assigned shift.
• Must be flexible and willing to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed based on production requirements.
• Regular and dependable attendance is an essential function of this position.

Safety Expectations

Safety is a top priority at Beasley Forest Products. The Taylor Forklift Operator must operate equipment responsibly, remain alert to surrounding employees and equipment, and immediately report unsafe conditions, damaged equipment, or other safety concerns to management.

Beasley Forest Products is an Equal Opportunity Employer.