Forklift Operator Pipe Mill Manufacturing

The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely operating industrial forklifts to move pipe, raw materials, and finished product throughout the pipe mill. This role supports continuous manufacturing operations by ensuring materials are staged, loaded, and transported efficiently while following all safety and operational procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts to move steel pipe, coils, skids, and other materials within the pipe mill
• Load and unload pipe from trucks, trailers, racks, and production lines
• Stage materials for production, finishing, and shipping
• Transport finished pipe to designated storage or shipping areas
• Inspect materials for visible damage and report issues to supervision
• Perform daily forklift inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns
• Follow all safety rules, traffic patterns, and plant procedures
• Maintain clean and organized work areas
• Work closely with pipe mill operators, crane operators, and supervisors to support production flow
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Experience operating industrial forklifts in a manufacturing or industrial environment
• Ability to safely handle long, heavy, and oversized materials such as steel pipe
• Basic understanding of load limits and safe material handling practices
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Strong attention to safety and awareness of surroundings

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a pipe mill, steel mill, or heavy manufacturing environment
• Experience handling steel pipe or similar long materials

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and operate equipment for extended periods
• Ability to climb on and off forklifts repeatedly throughout the shift
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds as required
• Ability to work in a non-climate-controlled manufacturing environment
• Ability to work around heavy machinery, noise, dust, and moving equipment
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Work Environment

• Industrial pipe mill manufacturing facility
• Not climate controlled
• Exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, and heavy equipment

Safety

• Must follow all company safety policies and procedures
• Must operate forklifts in a safe and responsible manner at all times