Forklift Operator Material Handler

Job Summary

Operate sit-down counterbalance and stand-up high-reach forklifts to safely receive, transport, stack, retrieve, and stage food and temperature-sensitive products within refrigerated and sub-zero freezer environments. Maintain strict inventory accuracy using RF scanners and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) while adhering to OSHA and food-safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Equipment Operation: Safely operate sit-down forklifts, stand-up reach trucks, and high-reach forklifts (capable of reaching racks 30 feet high) in narrow warehouse aisles.
• Loading & Unloading: Load, unload, stack, and move palletized freight to and from trailers, staging areas, and production lines.
• Order Picking & Put-Away: Pick, wrap, label, and put away inventory in high-rack freezer and cooler locations following FIFO (First-In, First-Out) rotation rules.
• Inventory & Inspection: Check freight for damage, temperature compromise, or count discrepancies, using RF scanners and completing cycle counts.
• Safety & Maintenance: Conduct pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections, change or charge forklift batteries, and maintain a clean, ice-free, and orderly work area.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Temperature Extremes: Ability to work in controlled refrigerated and deep-freeze environments ranging from 32°F down to -45°F (-43°C).
• Heights & Clearances: Tolerate working at elevated heights up to 30 feet in safety cages and navigating tight aisle clearances.
• Physical Stamina: Stand, sit, or walk continuously over long shifts (8 to 12 hours), frequently mount and dismount equipment, bend, and occasionally lift boxes or products up to 70–80 lbs.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear specialized insulated cold-weather gear, freezer suits, gloves, and fall-protection safety harnesses as required.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: Previous warehouse experience operating sit-down and stand-up reach trucks; prior cold-storage or freezer warehouse experience is strongly preferred.
• Certification: Valid forklift operator certification or willingness to complete company-sponsored safety and equipment certification during onboarding.
• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Skills: Basic math, reading, and computer/RF scanner proficiency; strong spatial awareness and attention to detail.

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