Job Title:
Forklift Operator Job Description This role involves operating forklifts within a large, expanding distribution center to support material handling and warehouse operations. You will receive training on the specific forklifts used on-site and work as part of a team to move, stage, and organize products safely and efficiently in a high-volume environment. Responsibilities Operate forklifts safely and efficiently to move, load, unload, and stage materials throughout the distribution center. Support daily material handling activities, including transporting pallets, products, and supplies to designated locations. Follow all safety procedures and warehouse protocols while operating forklifts and handling materials. Complete required training on the forklifts used on-site and apply that training consistently in daily work. Assist with organizing and maintaining a clean, orderly, and well-structured warehouse layout. Work collaboratively with warehouse team members to support smooth and timely order fulfillment. Use advanced warehouse technology and equipment, including automated order picking machines, as directed. Perform basic equipment checks and report any issues or safety concerns to the appropriate personnel. Adapt to different shifts and operational needs within the distribution center as assigned. Essential Skills Recent forklift operating experience in a warehouse or distribution environment. At least 2+ years of forklift experience. Previous forklift certification or documented training. Ability to operate forklifts safely in a busy, high-volume distribution center. Capacity to follow safety guidelines, standard operating procedures, and supervisor instructions. Reliability in attending scheduled shifts and completing assigned tasks. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience working in large distribution centers or high-throughput warehouses. Comfort using or learning advanced warehouse technology and automated equipment. Strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate effectively with warehouse staff. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and support an expanding warehouse operation. Why Work Here? You will join a rapidly growing distribution operation that is significantly expanding its footprint, offering exposure to a large-scale, modern warehouse environment. The project-based nature of the role provides an opportunity to demonstrate your skills, with top performers potentially considered for ongoing, direct-hire opportunities after the project concludes. You will work in a very clean, well-lit facility that uses advanced technology, including automated order picking machines, alongside a team that is passionate about their roles and committed to supporting each other's success. Work Environment This position is based in a large, modern distribution center that is expanding its warehouse space by an additional 900,000 square feet. The facility is very clean, well-lit, and equipped with advanced technology, including Apex automated order picking machines and other material-handling equipment. Work is performed on-site in a warehouse setting, involving regular forklift operation, movement of pallets, and coordination with other team members. Multiple shift options are available, including afternoon, evening, and weekend schedules, and you will receive training at a major warehouse location before fully transitioning into your assigned shift. The environment is fast-paced, safety-focused, and highly collaborative, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and operational excellence. Appropriate warehouse attire and safety gear are required in all work areas. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Syracuse, NY. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $24.50/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
- Medical, dental & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
- 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Syracuse,NY.
Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 9, 2026. About Aerotek We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.