Forklift Operator/Material Handler

Position Title: Material Handler
Department: Plant Admin
Reports to: Warehouse Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Material Handler is responsible for the movement, organization, and distribution of inventory and raw materials throughout the facility. This role supports multiple departments including fabrication, welding, paint, and final assembly by ensuring materials are delivered accurately, efficiently, and safely while maintaining inventory control and quality standards.

This role may also function as a Material Handler Lead/Foreman when designated, providing day-to-day coordination, direction, and support to material handling and inventory operations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

- Ability to read pick lists and accurately select, count, organize, and transport inventory and raw materials to fabrication, weld, paint, and final assembly departments

- Stock shelves with parts and finished goods

- Identify parts or materials that are damaged

- Utilize Syteline system to perform transactions and process inventory movements

- Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment safely and efficiently

- Communicate shortages or potential shortages to supervisors

- Assist with cycle counting and inventory accuracy processes

- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area

- Work collaboratively with multiple departments to ensure workflow efficiency

- Perform all other duties as assigned

Additional Responsibilities When Designated as Material Handler Lead/Foreman

- Coordinate daily material handling workflow and prioritize material movement based on production needs

- Support inventory organization and accuracy across warehouse and production areas

- Assist in monitoring inventory shortages and communicating urgent material needs

- Train and support team members on material handling procedures, equipment operation, and inventory processes

- Ensure materials are staged and delivered efficiently to support production flow

- Monitor work for accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to safety procedures

- Communicate with supervisors and department leads regarding workflow issues and material concerns

- Support continuous improvement efforts related to inventory flow, organization, and efficiency

- Serve as a point of contact for day-to-day material handling questions in the absence of the Warehouse Manager

- Lead by example in attendance, safety, work ethic, and adherence to company values

- Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license

- Perform all other duties as assigned

Qualifications

- Strong attention to detail and accuracy

- Ability to prioritize tasks in a time-sensitive environment

- Ability to work independently and take initiative

- Effective communication and teamwork skills

- Basic computer skills (preferred)

- Ability to read, write, and perform basic counting functions

- Forklift operation experience required (multiple types preferred)

- Ability to safely lift 50 lbs

- Embodies organizational core values (authentic, driven, humble, trustworthy)

Additional Qualifications for Material Handler Lead/Foreman:

- Prior experience in warehouse, inventory, or material handling operations preferred

- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills

- Ability to coordinate workflow and support multiple departments efficiently

- Ability to train, coach, and support team members

- Experience with inventory systems and material tracking processes preferred

Physical Requirements

- Ability to lift over 50 lbs with assistance frequently (team lift or mechanical aid) (excluding certain roles such as inventory control)

- Frequent standing, sitting, bending, crouching, and kneeling

- Strong visual ability, including depth perception for forklift operation and reading part numbers

- Adequate auditory ability to communicate effectively and remain aware of forklift and warehouse traffic

- Ability to safely operate forklifts and other material handling equipment

Work Environment

- Exposure to inconsistent temperatures depending on work area

- Frequent exposure to outdoor elements and inclement weather, especially in receiving areas

- Fast-paced warehouse environment with frequent equipment movement

- Regular interaction with multiple departments requiring strong communication and coordination

- Requires effective communication both in person and, when needed, via phone or computer systems

- Must wear required personal protective equipment in accordance with company safety policies, including company‑provided safety glasses and employee‑provided steel‑toed footwear; additional PPE may be required based on job duties.

- Overtime and Saturday work may be required based on production and business needs

Pre-Employment Requirements

Employment with Harper Industries is contingent upon successfully passing:

- Pre-employment background check

- Pre-employment drug screening

- Pre-employment physical examination

Harper Industries, Inc. (HII) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

The above statements describe the working conditions and physical requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of this position. Employees must be able to perform these essential functions, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 – 50.0 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Gym membership
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16 - $18