What are the responsibilities and job description for the Container Forklift Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator position at Northwest Industrial Staffing, Inc?
Job Title: Container Forklift Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator
Compensation: $22.00 – $24.00 per hour
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Tacoma, WA
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator for our high-volume warehouse facility in Tacoma, WA. In this role, you will be responsible for the safe movement, stacking, and organizing of shipping containers within our logistics yard and warehouse footprint. The ideal candidate must possess dedicated experience operating high-capacity Hyster container handlers and heavy-duty forklifts.
Key Responsibilities
- Container Handling: Safely transport, lift, and stack 20ft and 40ft shipping containers using Hyster heavy forklifts, top-picks, or empty container handlers.
- Logistics Coordination: Organize and stage containers to maximize warehouse yard efficiency, coordinating with local freight forwarders and drayage drivers.
- Load & Unload: Transfer heavy containerized freight efficiently between ground storage, chassis, and flatbed trailers.
- Equipment Maintenance: Perform mandatory daily pre-shift safety inspections on Hyster machinery and immediately report any mechanical issues.
- Tacoma Port/Yard Safety: Adhere strictly to OSHA, WISHA (Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act), and company safety protocols in a fast-paced environment.
Required Qualifications
- Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience operating heavy industrial equipment or container handlers in a warehouse, rail yard, or port-adjacent terminal.
- Equipment Expertise: Proven, hands-on experience operating high-capacity Hyster container handling machinery.
- Certifications: Valid heavy forklift/container handler operator certification. TWIC card is a plus but not required.
- Local Readiness: Ability to work reliably on-site at our Tacoma warehouse and adapt to changing Pacific Northwest weather conditions.
Northwest Industrial Staffing (NWIS) was formed in January of 2012 and is located in downtown, Kent Washington. NWIS provides quality staffing solutions for organizations and businesses. NWIS is an equal opportunity employer and a drug free environment. We offer career opportunities with potential for advancement. Our staff is required to complete comprehensive training programs that include safety awareness, OSHA requirements, and Quality Assurance. We are dedicated to fulfilling all of our customers needs.
INTEGRITY:
NWIS maintains an unstinting commitment to honesty and openness in all of its activities. NWIS prides itself on the importance of follow-up and trust.
FRIENDLY:
NWIS values clients and candidates for their uniqueness. NWIS strives to make everyone feel like a part of the family.
PROFESSIONALISM:
NWIS treats its clients and candidates with respect and consideration while helping them with their professional needs.
INTEGRITY:
NWIS maintains an unstinting commitment to honesty and openness in all of its activities. NWIS prides itself on the importance of follow-up and trust.
FRIENDLY:
NWIS values clients and candidates for their uniqueness. NWIS strives to make everyone feel like a part of the family.
PROFESSIONALISM:
NWIS treats its clients and candidates with respect and consideration while helping them with their professional needs.
Salary : $22 - $24