Material Handler

Job Summary

 The Steel/Forging Material Handler is responsible for safely moving, loading, and organizing steel products in an outdoor yard environment. This role supports daily production and shipping operations by ensuring materials are handled efficiently, accurately, and in accordance with company and safety standards. The position requires working outdoors 100% of the time, and all duties are performed in varying weather conditions throughout the year.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Safely load, unload, and move steel bars, tubes, and forgings using forklifts, slings, and other material‑handling equipment while maintaining accurate identification and tracking.
• Inspect incoming and outgoing steel for accuracy, quality, and damage; verify heat numbers, tags, and documentation.
• Organize and stage steel materials for production and outbound shipments to multiple locations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe yard area, including proper stacking, banding, and securing of steel.
• Follow all safety procedures, including required personal protective equipment (PPE) use and equipment operation guidelines.
• Assist truck drivers with material loading and securing in alignment with company and DOT standards.
• Conduct basic equipment checks and report maintenance needs for forklifts and yard tools.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and production teams to support timely material flow and accurate inventory

Education/Experience/Qualifications & Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply. 1-2 years of experience in material handling or similar, preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Basic computer skills; familiarity with AS400 and Microsoft Excel is helpful.
• Good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
• Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic.
• Strong oral and written presentation skills, effective time management abilities, and robust problem-solving capabilities to communicate effectively, prioritize tasks efficiently, and address challenges proactively.
• Must be able to complete company‑provided training and demonstrate competence in the safe operation of various types of forklifts and material‑handling equipment.

 Competencies

• Clear Communication – Shares information effectively with supervisors, drivers, and production teams to coordinate material flow.
• Attention to Detail – Ensures accurate tagging, counts, and documentation to support inventory accuracy.
• Dependability – Demonstrates reliable attendance and responsiveness to changing priorities.
• Accountability – Takes ownership of assigned tasks, equipment care, and material accuracy.
• Adaptability – Adjusts to shifting workloads and operational needs.
• Situational Awareness – Maintains awareness of surroundings, moving equipment, and potential hazards.
• Safety & PPE Compliance – Consistently follows safety policies and uses required protective gear.
• Hazard Recognition – Identifies and reports unsafe conditions, improper stacking, or equipment concerns promptly.
• Weather Adaptability – Performs duties safely in outdoor conditions such as heat, cold, rain, and wind.
• Load Management – Secures loads properly for storage, movement, and shipment.
• Organization & Yard Flow – Maintains orderly staging areas to support efficient production and shipping operations.

Work Environment 

• Works outdoors year‑round with exposure to heat, cold, humidity, rain, wind, and occasional snow or ice.
• Handles steel products that may have sharp edges or may be dirty, oily, or warm from sun exposure.

Physical Demands:

• Frequently lifts, carries, pushes, or pulls materials typically weighing up to 50–75 lbs.
• Handles oversized or irregular steel products require controlled movements and proper body mechanics.
• Uses chains, slings, and lifting devices requiring manual dexterity and grip strength.
• Stands and walks on concrete, gravel, uneven surfaces, and outdoor yard conditions for extended periods.
• Performs frequent bending, kneeling, climbing, reaching, twisting, and stepping to access materials and operate equipment.
• Climbs onto trucks, platforms, or equipment as needed during loading/unloading tasks.