Forklift Technician

JOB TITLE: Forklift Operator – Sorting & Finishing (Special Pieces)

EMPLOYER: Portobello Manufacturing

DEPARTMENT: Sorting & Finishing – Special Pieces

LOCATION: Baxter, TN

Job Summary:

The Forklift Operator – Sorting & Finishing (Special Pieces) is a key role in our production team, responsible for the safe and efficient movement of special pieces through the sorting and finishing process. This operator keeps the lines supplied, moves finished product to storage and shipping, and makes sure every piece is handled carefully to protect quality. The role involves daily forklift operation, inventory tracking, equipment inspections, and close coordination with production, quality control, and shipping to meet production goals and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Material Handling: Safely operate a forklift to move special pieces (trims, bullnose, mosaics, decorative and specialty items) between production, sorting, finishing, and warehouse areas. Load, unload, and stage pallets and racks to support the department’s workflow.

• Sorting & Finishing Support: Deliver incoming product to sorting and finishing lines on time, remove completed product, and keep work areas supplied so production is not interrupted.

• Product Care & Quality: Handle special pieces with care to prevent chipping, breakage, or damage. Verify pallets are correctly labeled, stacked, wrapped, and secured before moving or storing. Report damaged or nonconforming product to the supervisor.

• Inventory & Documentation: Place finished goods in the correct storage locations. Scan or record movements, counts, and transfers accurately. Assist with cycle counts and keep the staging and storage areas organized.

• Equipment Inspection: Complete daily pre-shift forklift inspections and checklists. Report mechanical issues, damage, or unsafe conditions immediately, and keep the forklift clean and properly charged or fueled.

• Collaboration: Communicate with sorters, finishing operators, quality control, and shipping to prioritize moves and meet daily production and shipping goals.

• Safety & Compliance: Follow all OSHA forklift regulations and company safety policies, including speed limits, pedestrian awareness, load capacity limits, and PPE requirements. Maintain a clean, hazard-free work area following 5S practices.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Certification: Valid forklift operator certification, or the ability to complete Portobello’s forklift training and certification before operating equipment.

• Experience: 1+ year of forklift operation in a manufacturing, warehouse, or distribution environment preferred. Experience handling fragile or finished goods (ceramic, tile, glass, or stone) a plus.

• Skills: Safe and precise forklift handling in tight spaces. Basic math, reading, and record-keeping skills. Familiarity with RF scanners or inventory systems is a plus.

• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand, walk, bend, and twist for extended periods, and work in a plant environment with noise, dust, and temperature changes. Willingness to work overtime or varying shifts as needed.

Personal Attributes:

• Safety-Minded: Puts safety first for themselves, coworkers, and product at all times.

• Attention to Detail: Careful handling of special pieces and accurate tracking of product locations and counts.

• Reliability: Dependable attendance and a strong work ethic that keeps the sorting and finishing lines moving.

• Team Player: Communicates clearly and works well with others to meet shared production goals.

The Forklift Operator plays a crucial role in keeping our special pieces moving safely and efficiently from production to the customer, contributing to the overall quality, success, and reputation of our manufacturing operations.

Portobello America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to promoting equal employment opportunity for applicants, without regard to their race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to, lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT (Optional)

I have read the foregoing job description and understand the responsibilities of the job.  I agree that I can perform the essential duties of this position.

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