What are the responsibilities and job description for the Freezer Forklift Operator and Inventory Organizer position at K&D Latin Food?
Key Responsibilities
- Material Handling & Staging: Safely load, unload, move, and stack pallets of raw materials, ingredients, and finished food products in and out of the cooler storage areas and shipping docks.
- Cold Chain Integrity: Ensure products are moved quickly between temperature zones to preserve the cold chain and prevent temperature abuse or food spoilage.
- Inventory Control & Rotation: Follow FIFO (First-In, First-Out) practices strictly to ensure product freshness. Accurately scan or log inventory adjustments using RF (Radio Frequency) scanners and the Warehouse Management System (WMS).
- Shipping & Receiving: Inspect incoming loads for damage, correct labeling, and proper temperature before staging. Verify bill of lading (BOL) paperwork against physical counts.
- Food Safety & Sanitation: Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary workspace in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and HACCP food safety guidelines. Report any spills, leaks, or damaged packaging immediately.
- Equipment Maintenance: Perform mandatory pre-operation and post-operation safety inspections on forklifts and equipment. Report any mechanical issues or safety hazards to maintenance or supervision.
Job Requirements & Qualifications
Requirement Category
Description
Experience
Minimum 1–2 years of experience operating a forklift (stand-up reach truck, sit-down counter-balance, or ride-on pallet jack) preferably in a food manufacturing or cold-storage environment.
Certifications
Valid OSHA Forklift Operator Certification (employer-sponsored recertification may be provided).
Physical Demands
Ability to work continuously in a cold environment (32°F to 38°F). Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly, and frequently mount/dismount equipment.
Technical Skills
Familiarity with RF scanners, barcode labeling systems, and basic Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
Education
High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
Core Competencies & "Soft Skills"
- Attention to Detail: Critical for matching item numbers, tracking expiration dates, and verifying lot numbers to prevent shipping errors or food safety mix-ups.
- Safety-First Mindset: Awareness of surroundings is amplified in a cooler due to potential condensation on floors, fogging eyewear, and tight racking configurations.
- Reliability: Food manufacturing schedules depend heavily on timely warehouse staging; strong punctuality is essential.
Work Environment & Benefits
- Environment: Work is performed almost exclusively inside a high-volume, fast-paced refrigerated cooler. Appropriate cold-weather Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)—including insulated jackets, gloves, and high-visibility gear—is provided.
- Shift Availability: [Insert standard shifts here, e.g., 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or rotating 4x4 schedules]. Overtime may be required based on production demands.
Work Location: In person