Forklift Operator And Material Handler

Job Title:

Forklift Operator and Material Handler Job Description This role combines forklift operation with hands-on material handling and machine support in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will assist in setting up and operating production equipment, move raw materials and finished products, and help maintain smooth, safe, and efficient production lines. The position involves working with various types of machinery, performing basic maintenance, and ensuring products meet quality standards while following all safety protocols. Responsibilities Assist machine operators in setting up and operating production equipment, including extruders, laminating machines, presses, slitter machines, and related machinery. Monitor machines during operation to ensure consistent quality, output, and adherence to production specifications. Load raw materials onto production lines and remove finished products, using forklifts, clamp trucks, and other material handling equipment as needed. Perform routine cleaning and preventative maintenance on machinery to minimize downtime and extend equipment life. Inspect products for defects, verify quality standards, and promptly report issues or irregularities to supervisors. Maintain accurate and timely production records, including counts, machine settings, and any issues encountered during the shift. Follow all safety protocols and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment and safe operation of machinery and forklifts. Support other production tasks such as assembly, general labor, packaging, picking, and packing to keep production lines running efficiently. Use basic hand tools and mechanical aptitude to assist with adjustments, minor repairs, and changeovers on machines. Operate RF scanners or basic computer systems to track materials, inventory, and production data. Collaborate with team members across multiple lines and departments, providing assistance and cross-coverage as needed. Participate in cross-training on multiple machines and production lines to increase flexibility and support overall plant operations. Ensure that products and services meet or exceed customer expectations by maintaining high standards of quality, accuracy, and timeliness. Essential Skills Previous industrial or manufacturing experience, including experience as an assistant or helper in a production environment. Hands-on machine operating experience or strong comfort working with production machinery. Knowledge of basic machinery functions and the ability to learn how to operate extruders, laminating machines, presses, and slitter machines. Ability to operate or learn to operate forklifts and clamp trucks; training is available. Basic computer skills for data entry, production tracking, and use of RF scanners. Basic math skills for counting, measuring, and verifying production quantities. Proficiency in verbal and written communication in English to follow instructions, complete documentation, and communicate with the team. Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented production environment. Capability to lift approximately 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks throughout the shift. Mechanical aptitude and comfort using hand tools for minor adjustments and tasks. Reliability and a demonstrated history of learning and applying new information and technology. Willingness to work on 2nd or 3rd shift as required by production needs. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience operating extruder, laminating, press, or slitter machines in a manufacturing setting. Background in general production, assembly, or general labor roles. Experience with packaging, picking, packing, and use of RF scanners in an industrial environment. Demonstrated commitment to preventative maintenance and care of production equipment. Strong attention to detail and quality when inspecting products and monitoring machines. Proactive attitude toward safety, housekeeping, and continuous improvement. Why Work Here? The company offers a stable, long-standing presence in the region, with decades of continuous operation and growth. Employees benefit from a culture built on hard work, commitment, and strong ties to the local community. The organization emphasizes sustainable initiatives, invests in employee engagement, and fosters a collaborative, team-focused environment. You can expect opportunities to learn new equipment, expand your skills through cross-training, and contribute to a workplace that values safety, quality, and long-term career development. Work Environment The role is based in a busy manufacturing facility focused on machine operating and forklift operation. The environment can be hot and loud, especially near rewind and other high-speed production machines. You will work around multiple production lines and will be cross-trained on various machines, including extruders, laminating machines, presses, and slitter machines. Shifts include 2nd and 3rd shift options, with many 3rd shift positions running 12-hour shifts. Common shift times include 2nd shift from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and 3rd shift from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. or 12:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., with 3rd shift typically running Sunday through Thursday. The work involves regular lifting, standing, and moving throughout the shift, with standard industrial safety practices and attire appropriate for a production floor. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Doswell, VA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $16.00 - $20.00/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 Doswell,VA.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 22, 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.