What are the responsibilities and job description for the Forklift Operator II (Dist. Center) position at OFD Foods, LLC?
Are you ready for your next adventure?
At Oregon Freeze Dry, innovation isn’t just a buzzword, it’s our foundation. We are a purpose-driven company with six decades of expertise in freeze-drying technology. Best known as the makers of Mountain House© meals, we are experts in advanced lyophilization solutions that can help people live healthier lives. Our headquarters in Albany, Oregon sits at the crossroads of science and nature, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that fuel bold ideas and transformative breakthroughs. We're driven by a commitment to quality, creativity, and continuous improvement, and we're always looking ahead to what's next. We’re proud of our legacy, but our future is even more exciting. If you're passionate and ready to make an impact, Oregon Freeze Dry isn't just a place to work, it's where your adventure begins.
We are looking for Forklift Operator II! This role is a fully proficient operator responsible for safely and efficiently transporting, storing, receiving, and staging materials in support of production and order fulfillment operations. This Forklift Operator II requires independent operation, strong inventory accuracy, and effective use of warehouse systems. They will support inventory integrity, dock operations, and assist with training other team members while maintaining compliance with safety, food safety, and operational standards.
You will get to:
- Safely and efficiently operate forklifts and related material handling equipment to move raw materials, packaging, and finished goods throughout production and warehouse areas.
- Pick, stage, receive, store, and transfer materials using RF scanners and ERP systems to support production schedules and order fulfillment.
- Ensure accurate inventory transactions, proper stock rotation, and adherence to FIFO requirements.
- Conduct pre-shift forklift inspections and promptly report equipment defects or safety concerns.
- Assist with cycle counts and investigate inventory discrepancies to maintain inventory accuracy.
- Communicate effectively with production, warehouse teams, suppliers, and carriers to support dock safety and scheduling.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and debris-free warehouse environment in compliance with GMP and safety standards.
- Assist with training and onboarding of new hires as needed.
- Participate in safety programs, report hazards, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain regular and reliable full-time attendance.
- Exhibit professional behavior with internal and external business partners that reflects positively on the company and aligns with company policies and practices.
- Embody OFD’s cultural values and align daily actions with department and company culture.
We are looking for someone who has:
- Generally, a minimum of three (3) years of forklift operations experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or fulfillment environment.
- Proficient forklift operation in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.
- Working knowledge of warehouse operations, dock procedures, and material flow.
- Strong inventory accuracy skills, including RF scanning and ERP system use.
- Attention to detail with the ability to follow established processes and procedures.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills across departments and with external partners.
- Time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast‑paced environment.
- Knowledge of workplace safety standards and food manufacturing expectations.
Physical Work Environment:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties the employee is:
- Constantly required to sit, and to reach to use computers and other office equipment.
- Occasionally required to stand for extended periods of time, up to 2 hours.
- Occasionally required to bend, twist, kneel, crouch and/or crawl.
- Occasionally required to walk and climb stairs, and be comfortable at various heights.
- Frequently required to view objects at close and distant ranges with hand and eye coordination.
- Constantly required to effectively communicate with others, verbally, in person/on video, in writing.
- Occasionally required to lift, move or maneuver tools, product or other items weighing up to 15 pounds.
- Occasionally required to lift up to 50 pounds and push or pull heavier with assistance.
Note: Occasionally is used to represent up to 1/3 of the time given to the workday, frequently represents 1/3 to 2/3 of the time and constantly represents 2/3 or more of the time
Thriving together: Your OFD Total Rewards and Benefits:
At Oregon Freeze Dry, we believe that our employees are the key to our success. That’s why we offer a competitive total rewards package aimed at supporting the health, financial security, and overall wellbeing of you and your family.
- Customize your healthcare coverage: including medical, dental, and vision options to fit your needs.
- Boost your savings: Choose an FSA or HSA for extra flexibility.
- Plan for your future: enroll into our 401(k) with employer match and immediate vesting.
- Peace of mind: Life and disability insurance to keep you and your loved ones protected.
- Furry friends: Pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
- Recharge & Refresh: Enjoy paid company holidays, PTO and sick time
- Give back: join us in making a difference with community support opportunities.
- Score savings: Unlock exclusive employee discounts and special savings on Mountain House product.
- Spread the word: Earn bonuses for referring awesome new team members.
Oregon Freeze Dry is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. We value diversity and are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all employees. Qualified candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability.
All applicants who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to take and pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.