What are the responsibilities and job description for the Forklift Operator position at Grip Shipping?
About Grip:
Grip is redefining cold-chain logistics for direct-to-consumer (DTC) eCommerce brands.
Founded in 2022 by former ButcherBox executives, Grip combines advanced technology
with a nationwide fulfillment network to optimize the shipping of perishable goods. Our
proprietary Smart Logistics Engine analyzes over 25 million data points daily—including
weather patterns, carrier performance, and real-time temperatures—to make intelligent,
package-level shipping decisions. Grip's Pulse Order Management System (OMS) offers
real-time inventory tracking, batch traceability, and seamless integration with platforms
like Shopify. This end-to-end solution provides brands with complete visibility and
control over their supply chain, eliminating the need for multiple third-party tools. With
strategically located temperature-controlled fulfillment centers, Grip can reach over 80%
of the U.S. population within 24 hours. Our mission is to empower DTC brands to scale
efficiently by providing innovative logistics solutions tailored to the unique challenges of
shipping.
Job Description:
We are seeking a certified Forklift Driver to play a vital role in the safe and efficient
movement of product throughout our Michigan fulfillment facility. This position operates
across inbound and outbound functions—loading and unloading temperature-controlled
trailers, staging pallets, and supporting the packing line with product pulls—all within a
demanding cold-chain environment. The ideal candidate is a safety-first operator who is
comfortable working extended periods in freezer conditions, adaptable across shifts, and
precise in both pallet-level and unit-level picking.
Specific Responsibilities
Loading & Unloading
- Safely operate a forklift to load and unload inbound and outbound trucks,
including refrigerated (reefer) and dry trailers, in compliance with all safety
protocols.
- Stage inbound pallets on the floor following unloading, organizing product by
SKU, lot, or instruction from the supervisor prior to put-away.
- Load outbound shipments accurately and efficiently, ensuring product is secured,
sequenced correctly, and ready for departure within carrier appointment windows.
- Inspect trailers prior to loading and unloading; report any temperature deviations,
damage, or safety concerns to the Operations Supervisor immediately.
Freezer & Cold Storage Operations
- Work extended periods inside the freezer storage room as required, performing
product pulls, pallet movement, and storage tasks in sub-zero conditions.
- Pull product from freezer storage to stage for the packing and fulfillment line,
ensuring the right SKUs and quantities are available and ready ahead of pack-out.
- Store inbound pallets and product correctly within the freezer, following
designated locations and FIFO/FEFO protocols to maintain inventory integrity.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and accessible freezer environment at all times.
Picking & Fulfillment Support
- Pick product at the unit and case level—not limited to full pallets or full cases—
with accuracy and care to support packing line requirements.
- Fulfill pick requests based on packing slips, system instructions, or direction from
the Line Lead or Operations Supervisor.
- Verify picked quantities and product against pick lists before delivering to the
packing area; flag any discrepancies immediately.
- Assist the packing line team during high-volume periods by keeping product
flowing consistently and without interruption.
Safety & General Operations
- Conduct pre-shift forklift inspections and report any equipment issues before
operating.
- Follow all OSHA forklift safety regulations, facility safety guidelines, and cold-
chain handling procedures at all times.
- Maintain awareness of pedestrian traffic and other operators in shared spaces;
prioritize the safety of the entire team.
- Keep work areas, dock doors, and staging zones clean, organized, and free of
hazards.
- Operate WMS scanning equipment to confirm product movements, record
receipts, validate picks, and maintain accurate inventory data in the system.
- Assist with lifting, moving, and handling individual boxes and cases as part of
staging, picking, and fulfillment support tasks.
- Assist with general warehouse tasks as directed, including receiving support,
inventory counts, and supply restocking.
What You Bring:
- Valid, current forklift certification is required—candidates without certification will
not be considered.
- Proven experience safely operating a forklift in a warehouse or fulfillment
environment, including loading and unloading reefer and dry trailers.
- Demonstrated ability to work in freezer and cold storage environments for extended
periods of time.
- Experience picking at the unit and individual case level, not exclusively full pallets
or full case quantities.
- Strong attention to detail—accuracy in product pulls, staging, and loading directly
impacts customer orders and carrier schedules.
- Ability to stand, move, and operate equipment for long periods throughout the shift.
- Reliable attendance and flexibility to work early morning and late night shifts
depending on operational scheduling needs.
- Comfortable using WMS scanning equipment to log and confirm product
movements with accuracy and speed.
- Ability to lift and handle boxes and cases repeatedly throughout the shift—this role
goes beyond forklift operation and requires hands-on physical involvement.
- Team-oriented, safety-conscious, and able to work efficiently under time pressure
without cutting corners.
Schedule:
- Shifts available across early mornings and late nights depending on operational
needs and assigned rotation.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Grip is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to complying with all applicable non-discrimination laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive workplace environment, where all employees and applicants are treated with respect and without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $17 - $19