1st Shift Sit-Down Forklift Operator

1st Shift Sit-Down Forklift Operator Location: Gastonia, NC 28056 Pay Rate: $16.00 to $17.00 per hour, depending on experience Job Type: Full-Time Shift: 1st Shift Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM Experience Required: Minimum 1 year operating a sit-down forklift Equipment: Propane-Powered Sit-Down Forklift Position Overview We are seeking an experienced, reliable, and safety-focused 1st Shift Sit-Down Forklift Operator to join a fast-paced manufacturing and warehouse operation in Gastonia, NC. This position is responsible for safely operating a propane-powered sit-down forklift to transport raw materials, move finished products, load and unload trucks, and support daily manufacturing and warehouse activities. The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of recent, hands-on sit-down forklift experience , excellent safety awareness, and the ability to work efficiently in a busy industrial environment. IMPORTANT: Candidates must successfully complete a hands-on forklift driving skills test before being considered for placement. Key Responsibilities Safely operate a propane-powered sit-down forklift in a manufacturing and warehouse environment. Load and unload trucks, trailers, and delivery vehicles safely and efficiently. Transport raw materials, finished products, pallets, and supplies throughout the facility. Supply production lines and manufacturing departments with materials as needed. Stack, organize, and store materials in designated warehouse locations. Maneuver forklifts safely through tight spaces, production areas, and high-traffic environments. Perform daily pre-operation forklift inspections, including checking tires, forks, brakes, steering, lights, and fluid levels. Monitor propane fuel levels and follow established procedures for safely changing propane cylinders. Inspect materials and loads for stability, proper positioning, and potential damage. Assist with inventory organization, material staging, and warehouse housekeeping. Follow production schedules, work orders, and supervisor instructions. Maintain accurate material movement records when required. Report equipment malfunctions, damaged materials, and unsafe conditions immediately. Follow all company safety policies and applicable OSHA forklift safety regulations. Assist with general warehouse and material-handling duties when forklift operation is not required. Required Qualifications Minimum 1 year of verifiable, hands-on experience operating a sit-down forklift. Experience operating a propane-powered sit-down forklift is required. Must successfully pass a hands-on forklift driving skills test. Experience loading and unloading trucks and transporting palletized materials. Ability to safely operate a forklift in an active manufacturing or warehouse environment. Knowledge of forklift load capacities, weight distribution, and safe stacking procedures. Understanding of forklift inspections and safe equipment operation. Familiarity with safe propane cylinder handling and replacement procedures. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Strong attention to safety, accuracy, and productivity. Reliable attendance and punctuality. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Must be available Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Willingness to assist with other warehouse or production tasks when needed. Preferred Qualifications Previous forklift experience in metal fabrication, steel manufacturing, or industrial production. Experience moving heavy, oversized, or irregularly shaped materials. Experience operating forklifts in high-volume manufacturing facilities. Familiarity with shipping, receiving, inventory control, and material staging. Previous employer-issued forklift training or certification. Experience working around production machinery and manufacturing equipment. Ability to safely handle different pallet sizes and material configurations. Physical Requirements Ability to sit and operate a forklift for extended periods.…

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