Forklift Operator

Forklift OperatorElk Grove Village, IllinoisType: Direct HireManufacturing/ProductionSalary: $22.00-24.00/hr DOEFull benefitsPermanent Position with full benefitsElk Grove Village, IL 60007Job DescriptionForklift OperatorThe Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of raw materials, packaging supplies, ingredients, and finished goods throughout the facility. This role is critical to maintaining the flow of materials into production and the accurate staging and storage of finished pallet inventory. The Forklift Operator is expected to operate equipment with the highest regard for safety, product integrity, and regulatory compliance.ResponsibilitiesOperate sit-down and/or stand-up counterbalanced forklifts and pallet jacks to move raw material, ingredient, and packaging pallets from receiving docks to designated staging or storage areas.Transport finished goods pallets from the palletizing area to the finished goods freezer or designated staging locations.Load and unload inbound and outbound trucks at the receiving and shipping docks in a safe and timely manner.Drive box truck to and from off-site storage multiple times per day to support production.Verify pallet counts, lot numbers, and item identifications when moving product; report any discrepancies to the supervisor.Stage raw materials for production runners at the beginning of each shift and replenish staging areas as needed throughout the day.Conduct pre-shift forklift inspections (OSHA-required daily checklist) and report any mechanical defects immediately; do not operate unsafe equipment.Maintain battery charging schedules or propane cylinder exchanges as applicable to the equipment type.Ensure all pallets are properly wrapped, labeled, and stored in the correct location according to FIFO (First In, First Out) principles.Keep warehouse aisles, dock areas, and staging zones clear of debris, empty pallets, and trip hazards.Assist with physical inventory counts and cycle counts as directed.Adhere to all facility traffic patterns, speed limits, pedestrian right-of-way rules, and forklift safety protocols at all times.Communicate proactively with production runners, the receiving team, and supervisors about material shortages, damaged product, or space constraints.Complete any required material movement logs or warehouse documentation accurately.Experience counting inventory.QualificationsValid forklift operator certification required (or ability to obtain certification upon hire company will train).Minimum 1 year of forklift operating experience in a warehouse, manufacturing, or distribution environment preferred.Ability to read pallet labels, lot numbers, and item codes accurately.Understanding of FIFO inventory management principles.Familiarity with food safety and GMP requirements in a cold storage environment is preferred.Ability to count inventory.Physical RequirementsAbility to operate a forklift for an entire shift with periodic breaks in a fast paced manufacturing environment.Frequent entering and exiting of forklift cab; stepping up and down from equipment.Ability to lift and position pallet loads, strapping, and wrapping materials (up to 50 lbs manually with assistance).Work in freezer/cooler environments (temperatures as low as -10F) for extended periods; appropriate PPE (insulated gloves, jacket) provided.1st shift: 6am-2:00pm