Forklift Operator/Material Handler

Job Title: Forklift Operator / Material Handler Company: Mastronardi Produce (SUNSET®) Department: Warehouse / Shipping & Receiving Reports To: Warehouse Supervisor / Operations Lead Job Type: Full-Time Hired troug Staffing Agency - Traba Position Overview Mastronardi Produce is a pioneer in the greenhouse industry, bringing fresh, flavorful SUNSET® produce to grocery stores across North America. The Forklift Operator / Material Handler plays a critical role in daily supply chain operations. This position is responsible for moving, stacking, loading, and unloading fresh produce pallets and packaging materials quickly, safely, and accurately in a fast-paced, temperature-controlled warehouse environment. Key Responsibilities Equipment Operation: Safely operate sit-down forklifts, stand-up reach trucks, and electric pallet jacks to transport bulk pallets of fresh produce, packaging supplies, and finished inventory. Loading & Unloading: Unload incoming shipments from growers and packhouses; stage, scan, and inspect items; load outbound freight onto refrigerated trailers in accordance with weight distribution and transit safety guidelines. Inventory & RF Scanning: Utilize handheld RF barcode scanners and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) to track inventory movements, bin locations, lot numbers, and staging lanes accurately. Cold Storage & Temperature Control: Work across refrigerated warehouse storage zones (cooler and dock environments), strictly adhering to cold-chain preservation standards. Quality Assurance & Traceability: Inspect pallets and containers for damage, stability, pest signs, and proper labeling. Report product quality deviations, broken pallets, or labeling errors immediately to supervisors. Equipment Inspections: Complete pre-shift and post-shift forklift safety checklists; report any mechanical malfunctions, battery maintenance needs, or hydraulic concerns to maintenance personnel. Safety & Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Comply with all OSHA regulations, food safety protocols (FSMA, SQF, PrimusGFS), and company sanitation guidelines to maintain a clean, hazard-free warehouse. Qualifications & SkillsRequired High school diploma or GED equivalent. Minimum 1–2 years of experience operating industrial material handling equipment (sit-down forklift, stand-up reach truck, or walkie/rider pallet jack). Valid forklift certification (or eligibility to pass in-house OSHA-compliant forklift re-certification upon hire). Hands-on experience using RF scanning guns and basic inventory management systems. Familiarity with warehouse safety standards, order picking, and load staging. Preferred Prior experience in a perishable food distribution, fresh produce packing, or cold storage warehouse. Knowledge of food safety standards (GMP, SQF, FSMA, or HACCP). Bilingual proficiency (English and Spanish) is an asset. Physical Demands & Work Environment Physical Capabilities: Ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch, reach, and sit for extended shifts (8–12 hours). Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lbs regularly. Work Environment: Cold storage and climate-controlled warehouse setting (temperatures ranging between 35°F and 55°F / 2°C and 13°C depending on storage zone). Proper thermal attire is required. Schedule Flexibility: Must be willing to work varying shifts, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and seasonal peak overtime as operational demand dictates. Compensation & Benefits Competitive hourly wage with shift differential pay (where applicable). Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options. 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match. Paid time off (PTO) and paid company holidays. Company-provided cold-weather gear and PPE allowances. Career growth and cross-training opportunities within a growing international company. Pay: $13.75 - $15.00 per hour Expected hours: 45.0 per week Benefits: Free parking Work Location: In person

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