What are the responsibilities and job description for the Forklift Driver position at Custom Forest Products?
Job Title: Forklift Driver
Department: Multiple Departments
Reports To: Assigned Department Manager
FLSA Status: Non‑Exempt
Rate of Pay: $16.00
Position Summary
The Forklift Driver is responsible for safely and efficiently operating forklifts to move lumber, pallet components, finished pallets, and other materials throughout the facility. This role supports production flow by staging materials, supplying workstations, loading/unloading trailers, and maintaining accurate inventory movement. The driver must demonstrate strong situational awareness, safety focus, and the ability to work in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Forklift Operation
- Operate forklifts to transport raw materials, pallet components, and finished pallets throughout the facility.
- Load and unload inbound and outbound trailers safely and efficiently.
- Move lumber bundles and pallet stacks to designated production areas.
- Ensure proper stacking, spacing, and securement of all loads to prevent damage or tipping.
Material Handling & Production Support
- Stage materials for saw operators, builders, and machine lines to maintain consistent production flow.
- Supply workstations and remove completed materials as needed.
- Assist with inventory counts and accurate documentation of material movement.
- Transport finished pallets to storage, staging, or shipping locations.
Safety & Maintenance
- Follow all company forklift safety guidelines and facility safety procedures.
- Complete daily forklift inspections and report mechanical issues immediately.
- Maintain clean, organized aisles and staging areas to prevent hazards.
- Use lights, horns, and safe driving practices at all times in busy work zones.
Quality Control
- Inspect materials before moving to identify damage or defects.
- Ensure load balance, weight limits, and placement meet safety and quality standards.
- Report any material shortages, defects, or quality concerns to supervisors.
Qualifications
Required
- Experience driving a forklift in busy manufacturing facility
- Forklift certification preferred, but not required
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and stand for long periods.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
Competencies
- Safety‑Focused – Consistently follows safety rules and identifies hazards.
- Quality‑Driven – Ensures accuracy and consistency in all activities
- Reliability – Shows up on time and maintains strong attendance.
- Teamwork – Works well with others in fast‑paced production environments.
- Mechanical Skills – Comfortable operating a forklift in both tight inside areas as well as outside on rough, uneven terrain.
Work Environment
- Industrial manufacturing environment with noise, sawdust, and moving machinery.
- Requires personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, steel‑toe boots, and hearing protection.
- Fast‑paced environment with repetitive tasks and physical labor.
- Work area is not climate-controlled
Schedule
- Full‑time; shifts may include early mornings, evenings, or overtime depending on production demands.
Compensation
- Benefits include health, dental, vision, group life, short-term disability insurance, paid time off, 401(k) match of 4%, and quarterly bonus incentives.
Salary : $16