Find & Apply For Forklift / Pallet Jack Operator Jobs in Hickory, North Carolina

Lumber company is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Heavy-Duty Lift Operator to support the Stacker Plant by transporting raw lumber and stacked materials efficiently. This role is essential to maintaining a steady production flow by ensuring lumber is moved, organized, and staged properly. The ideal candidate will have experience operating heavy-duty lift equipment with a capacity of approximately 35,000 pounds in an industrial setting, strong spatial awareness, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and organized work environment. This position offers an excellent opportunity for someone interested in building a career in material handling within the lumber industry, with the potential to advance as the individual's skills and experience grow.

Key Responsibilities:

Material Handling and Transportation Operate a heavy-duty lift truck to transport raw lumber, stacked bundles, and other materials to designated areas. Load and unload lumber from production areas, ensuring proper placement and organization. Stage materials correctly to keep the stacker machine operating efficiently. Assist with sorting and arranging lumber according to size, grade, and type. Equipment Operation and Maintenance Perform daily pre-shift inspections of the lift truck to confirm proper operation and safety compliance. Report mechanical problems and maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel. Keep the lift truck clean and free of debris to support safe and efficient operation and equipment longevity. Safety and Compliance Adhere to all OSHA requirements and company safety policies, including the proper use of personal protective equipment. Follow all traffic and equipment-operation rules within the facility. Ensure loads are properly secured and balanced to prevent tipping or shifting. Maintain awareness of pedestrian and vehicle traffic to prevent collisions and other safety incidents. Production Support and Efficiency Work closely with stacker operators, graders, and other team members to maintain an efficient workflow. Supply materials quickly and accurately to keep production moving without unnecessary delays. Remove waste materials and excess debris from work areas to maintain cleanliness and efficiency. Collaboration and Communication Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members regarding material needs and changes in workflow. Assist with training new lift-truck operators as needed. Follow directions and adapt to changing production demands. Experience and Education Minimum of one year of experience operating a heavy-duty lift truck in a manufacturing or lumberyard environment. Valid lift-truck certification or the ability to obtain certification upon hire. High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Technical and Physical Requirements Ability to maneuver and operate heavy-duty lift equipment safely, including within confined spaces. Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to stand, walk, and regularly climb into and out of lift equipment. Ability to frequently operate hand and foot controls. Ability to bend and stoop occasionally to secure loads or adjust materials. Ability to work in a dusty and noisy environment with seasonal temperature variations. If you feel this is a good fit for you, please submit your application and resume for consideration. If you'd like to apply for this position in person please visit our agency at 915 Tate Blvd SE Hickory NC Suite 190 at your earliest convenience.

Pay:

From $17.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Work Location:

In person