Forklift Operator

The Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of forklifts and other material handling equipment in support of active masonry construction projects at First Choice Construction Company. Assigned to individual project sites, this role works directly under the direction of the site Foreman to ensure materials, tools, and equipment are properly positioned, staged, and moved to keep work crews productive and operations running safely and on schedule.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Operation

• Safely operate forklifts, telehandlers, roughterrain forklifts, and other material handling equipment on assigned project sites
• Load and unload delivery trucks and flatbeds carrying masonry materials including brick, block, stone, mortar, and scaffolding components
• Stage and reposition materials on site in coordination with the Foreman to support continuous crew productivity
• Move and set scaffolding components, mortar boards, equipment, and other materials as directed by the Foreman throughout the workday
• Perform daily preoperation inspections of forklift equipment and document condition in accordance with OSHA requirements
  
  

Site Support & Material Handling

• Work closely with the Foreman and masonry crew to anticipate material needs and keep work areas supplied and organized
• Receive and verify incoming material deliveries against delivery tickets; report discrepancies to the Foreman immediately
• Maintain organized and safe material storage areas on site, ensuring materials are protected and accessible
• Assist with the setup and breakdown of scaffolding and equipment as directed
• Keep forklift travel paths and material staging areas clear of debris and hazards
• Coordinate with the warehouse and drivers on delivery timing and material staging requirements as needed
  
  

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and project sitespecific safety plans at all times
• Operate and store forklift equipment in full compliance with General Contractor directions, site rules, and all applicable regulations
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) including hard hat, safety vest, steeltoed boots, and gloves
• Observe load capacity limits and safe operating procedures for all equipment on active construction sites
• Maintain awareness of crew members, subcontractors, and other personnel in the work area during forklift operation
• Report unsafe conditions, near misses, and incidents to the Foreman immediately
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures and other hazard control practices as required
• Participate in daily toolbox talks and required safety training programs
  
  

Documentation & Communication

• Complete daily forklift inspection checklists and submit to Foreman
• Document any equipment damage, malfunctions, or maintenance needs and report to Foreman promptly
• Communicate material shortages, delivery discrepancies, or site issues to the Foreman in a timely manner
  
  

Required Qualifications

Experience & Skills

• Minimum 2 years of forklift operation experience in a warehouse, construction, or industrial setting
• Valid forklift operator certification (OSHAcompliant) required
• Experience operating sitdown counterbalance forklifts; telehandler or roughterrain forklift experience a plus
• Demonstrated safe operating record with no major incidents
• Ability to read and interpret delivery tickets, packing slips, and basic inventory documents
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently with minimal supervision
  
  

Technical Competencies

• Working knowledge of forklift preoperation inspection requirements
• Ability to safely handle heavy and oversized loads including palletized masonry materials, scaffolding components, and equipment
• Basic understanding of warehouse organization and inventory control practices
• Familiarity with construction materials and equipment is highly desirable
  
  

Certifications & Licenses

• Valid OSHAcompliant forklift operator certification required
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Ability to pass background check and drug screening
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred for communication with field crews
• Experience in masonry, concrete, or construction materials distribution
• Experience operating telehandlers or roughterrain forklifts
• Familiarity with Hydro Mobile scaffolding systems and related equipment
• CDL or experience operating trucks and flatbeds
• Experience with construction site deliveries in an urban environment
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Lift and carry up to 75 pounds regularly
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions yearround
• Stand, walk, bend, and climb for extended periods on construction sites and in the warehouse
• Wear required PPE for extended periods
• Operate forklift equipment for up to 8 hours per day
  
  

Reports To: Masonry Foreman

Employment Type: Full-Time, Hourly

This position offers the opportunity to play a crucial role in supporting our field operations while working with a dedicated team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. The successful candidate will contribute directly to our company's continued growth and success in the commercial construction industry.

We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented professional who is passionate about construction and eager to contribute to our team’s success. Our Washington DC office offers a dynamic work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work on exciting projects that make a difference in the community.

Location

Washington, DC metro area (sites throughout DC, MD, Northern VA)

Department

Operations

Minimum Experience

Entry to Mid-Level (2 years’ experience)