Forklift Spotter - STRU

Role Summary

The Forklift Spotter is a critical safety role responsible for guiding powered industrial truck (PIT) movements to protect pedestrians, equipment, and product. You’ll control the work area, direct drivers using approved hand signals/radios, and maintain line-of-fire awareness so material moves safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Traffic Control & Spotting

• Establish and maintain safe clearances for forklifts, telehandlers, and pallet jacks
• Use standardized hand signals and radio communication to guide operators
• Control pedestrian flow; place cones/barriers and post “No Walk” zones
• Maintain line-of-fire awareness around pinch points, blind corners, docks, and racking.
  
  
  

Pre-Task Planning

• Perform Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and pre-lift briefs for oversized/awkward loads
• Verify load stability, height/width/center of gravity, and travel path conditions
• Confirm forks/attachments and route are appropriate before movement.
  
  
  

Area Readiness & Housekeeping

• Keep aisles, intersections, dock plates, and staging zones clear and marked
• Support 5S standards; promptly address debris, spills, and tripping hazards.
  
  
  

Communication & Documentation

• Coordinate with operators, leads, and receiving/shipping to sequence moves
• Report hazards, near misses, and incidents immediately; assist with investigations
• Complete daily spotter checklists and help maintain visual controls/signage.
  
  
  

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce PPE and mobile-phone-free zones within controlled areas
• Follow EAS procedures and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 (PIT) requirements
• Participate in safety talks, refreshers, and emergency drills.
  
  
  

Support Tasks (as needed)

• Assist with load staging, tag/label verification, and basic rigging checks.
• May escort wide/long loads between cells or buildings.
  
  
  

Note: This role does not require operating a forklift; however, cross-training or certification to operate may be requested depending on business needs.

Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing, distribution, or construction environment preferred
• Familiarity with PIT operations and standard hand signals; strong radio etiquette
• Working knowledge of shop floor safety (JHAs, line-of-fire, barricading, 5S)
• Clear, assertive communicator who can pause work and escalate when needed.
• Detail-driven, calm under pressure, and team-oriented.
• Preferred
• Prior spotter/flagger experience or OSHA PIT awareness training
• First Aid/CPR certification.
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
  
  
  

Schedule & Environment

• On-site role; multiple shifts may be available (OT as needed).
• Manufacturing floor with active PIT traffic, variable noise, and changing layouts.
• Physical Demands & Work Environment (JD version)