Forklift Operator - Manufacturing

SUMMARY: Supports manufacturing by safely operating forklifts to move in-process product, component racks, raw materials, finished/rejected materials, and other production supplies. The role requires demonstrated forklift competency, strong situational awareness, and consistent compliance with plant traffic and material-handling rules. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Safely operate assigned forklifts/powered industrial trucks in accordance with training, plant rules, and OSHA/company requirements. Perform required pre-use inspection and report equipment defects or unsafe conditions before operation. Support production by moving and staging in-process unibodies, assembled pallets, raw materials, rejected materials, and other supplies. Move component/rod racks to and from production cells and designated replenishment/staging areas. Maintain production flow by responding to material movement requests and positioning materials in designated locations. Load, unload, stack, stage, and transport materials without damaging product, racks, equipment, or facility infrastructure. Follow pedestrian-right-of-way rules, speed limits, aisle controls, horn/intersection requirements, and designated traffic patterns. Maintain accurate material identification/traceability and complete movement or inventory documentation/scanning as required. Maintain housekeeping in staging and travel areas and immediately report spills, obstructions, damaged racks, or other hazards. Perform other related material-handling duties as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS Prior forklift experience preferred; must successfully complete company-approved powered industrial truck evaluation/certification before independent operation. Demonstrated ability to safely maneuver loads in an active manufacturing environment. Ability to understand load stability, capacity limitations, safe stacking, pedestrian awareness, and dock/aisle hazards. Ability to follow written/verbal instructions and identify materials, locations, and production priorities. Basic scanner/computer skills preferred for material movement and traceability transactions. Dependable attendance and ability to coordinate effectively with production and warehouse personnel. CORE EXPECTATIONS: Safety-first behavior and compliance with all plant policies, PPE requirements, and authorized work practices. Consistent attendance, punctuality, dependability, teamwork, and respectful workplace conduct. Ability to learn and follow standard work, respond to supervisor direction, and report unsafe, abnormal, or nonconforming conditions promptly. Maintain work area organization and housekeeping/5S standards. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT Frequent sitting while operating a forklift with repeated head/neck turning, hand/foot control use, and mounting/dismounting equipment. Regular walking and occasional manual material handling within established job limits. Ability to maintain visual awareness, depth perception, and safe control around pedestrians, racks, machines, and other vehicles. Required use of plant PPE and seat belt/restraint systems where equipped.

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