Forklift Operator/Material Handler

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule: Monday–Friday, with some overtime as production requires

Pay: Starting at $20/hour

Position Summary

We're seeking an experienced Material Handler to keep production moving by ensuring our fabricators, welders and shipping team have the right material at the right time — and to maintain accurate, real-time control of parts and orders within our inventory management system. You will be responsible for the flow of material across the shop floor, from receiving and staging through to outbound shipment, while keeping system records aligned with physical inventory. This role requires sound judgment and initiative: anticipating shortages, resolving discrepancies, and identifying issues before they impact production.

About Direct Dimension LLC

Direct Dimension LLC is a welding and fabrication shop producing engineered parts for the transportation industry. This is a hands-on role with real ownership — you'll keep material moving and our inventory accurate across the shop floor while ensuring our tracking systems are up-to-date.

What You'll Do

• Move raw material, work-in-process, and finished parts safely with a forklift
• Keep welding stations and the shipping area stocked and staged ahead of need
• Receive, label, scan, and put away incoming material
• Track parts and order flow through our inventory management system — accurate data entry, cycle counts, and keeping system records matched to physical inventory
• Monitor inventory levels and flag shortages or discrepancies before they hold up a job
• Stage and support outbound shipments
• Keep material storage and work areas clean, organized, and safe
• Communicate with welders, shipping, and supervisors to keep the floor flowing

What You Bring

• 2—5 years of material handling experience in a manufacturing environment
• Comfort and accuracy working in a computer-based inventory/tracking system — not just scanning, but managing and maintaining data on the floor
• Forklift experience; current forklift certification preferred (we'll recertify you if you've held one before)
• Strong attention to detail and the initiative to think ahead, not just react
• Reliable, safety-minded, and a team player
• Able to work on your feet throughout the shift; comfortable in a fabrication/shop environment
• High school diploma or GED preferred

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Steel-toe boots and safety glasses (PPE) required on the shop floor
• Able to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift
• Most heavy material is moved with forklift or crane assistance; manual lifting is limited
• Work is performed in an active welding and fabrication shop environment

Why You'll Like Working Here

• Starting pay of $20/hour
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Steady Monday–Friday day-shift schedule
• A skilled, close-knit team where your work is seen and valued

Before You Start

Employment is contingent on a background check and a hands-on forklift/skills evaluation.

Ready to keep our shop moving? Apply today.

Direct Dimension LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Inventory management: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Forklift Certification (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Lake in the Hills, IL 60156 (Required)

Work Location: In person