Forklift Operator

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Forklift Driver

Position Summary

The Forklift Driver is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient operation of the packaging department. This position operates forklifts to move lumber units into and out of the packaging area, maintains organized product staging, and assists with packaging duties as needed.

When the shipping forklift driver is loading trucks, the Packaging Forklift Driver may be required to operate a standby forklift to keep packaging operations moving efficiently.

This role also assists with setting corners, stenciling, end sealing, placing stickers, applying paper wrap, measuring and marking random-width units, and completing other packaging-related duties.

The appearance and condition of finished lumber are important to the success of Zip-O-Log Mills. Employees in this position are responsible for helping ensure that all packaged products meet company quality, presentation, and safety standards before shipment to customers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Operate forklifts safely, efficiently, and in a manner that prevents damage to equipment, products, and property.
• Move lumber units into the packaging department.
• Remove completed units from the packaging area and stack them safely in the designated shipping area.
• Maintain organized, stable, and orderly unit stacking.
• Place and position pile bottoms for safe stacking.
• Pick up spilled boards and assist with damaged or unstable units.
• Inspect units for improper construction, incorrect size, lettering, banding, paper caps, packaging, or below-grade lumber.
• Notify the appropriate supervisor or team member of quality concerns.
• Assist with packaging activities, including:
  • Setting corners
  • Stenciling
  • End sealing
  • Placing stickers
  • Paper wrapping
  • Measuring and marking random-width units
  • Banding and securing units
• Carry and organize packaging supplies, including banding, paper, stickers, and corner protectors.
• Assist the sawmill stacker driver with removing and stacking units from the dip-tank outfeed when needed.
• Perform required pre-shift and routine forklift inspections.
• Check and maintain appropriate fuel, oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid, and other required fluid levels.
• Follow all applicable lockout/tagout procedures.
• Immediately report equipment defects, unsafe conditions, product damage, or safety hazards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Use downtime productively for cleanup, inspections, minor maintenance, and other assigned duties.
• Support other production and shipping functions as operational needs require.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Why Join Our Team?
Our family-owned sawmill has been a proud part of the local community for more than eight decades. We believe in building more than just great products—we build strong teams, lasting careers, and meaningful relationships. If you’re seeking a team that feels like family and a place where you can take pride in what you do, we’d love to have you with us.

BENEFITS

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Company Provided Benefits 
• Medical Coverage, including Major Medical and Hospitalization
• Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Matching
• Competitive salary

Qualifications

To perform this position successfully, an individual should be able to meet the following qualifications:

• Basic understanding of sawmill and lumber-production operations.
• Ability to operate a forklift safely around employees, equipment, and finished products.
• Strong awareness of product quality and unit stability.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Commitment to following company safety rules and supporting a strong safety culture.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Willingness to work overtime, alternate shifts, or fill in when business needs require.

Education and Experience

• Previous sawmill or lumber-manufacturing experience is required.
• Previous forklift-operating experience is required.
• Previous packaging or shipping experience is preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and relevant experience may be considered.

Salary : $27 - $28