Forklift Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Summary and Objective:

The Forklift Operator is responsible for safe and efficient movement, staging, and storage of pallets, lumber, and finished goods within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role supports production by ensuring materials are delivered where needed on time, maintaining inventory accuracy, and upholding safety and quality standards. The objective is to maximize workflow efficiency while minimizing damage, downtime, and safety risks

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Operate forklifts and other industrial equipment to move raw materials and finished pallets.

2. Load and unload trucks in a safe and timely manner.

3. Stage materials for production lines according to schedule and demand.

4. Transport finished goods to designated storage or shipping areas.

5. Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.

6. Maintain accurate inventory counts and assist with cycle counts.

7. Ensure proper stacking and storage of pallets to prevent damage or hazards.

8. Follow all company safety policies and OSHA regulations.

9. Assist with manual material handling when required.

10. Communicate with supervisors and team members to coordinate workflow.

11. Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of debris.

12. Identify and report damaged materials or quality issues.

13. Support shipping and receiving operations as needed.

14. Operate within tight spaces and high-traffic areas safely.

15. Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Required Qualifications:

§ High school diploma or equivalent

§ Proven experience operating a forklift in an industrial or manufacturing setting

§ Valid forklift certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)

§ Basic understanding of warehouse and inventory procedures

§ Ability to follow safety guidelines and work instructions

§ Strong attention to detail and situational awareness

§ Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical labor

§ Reliable attendance and punctuality

Desired or Preferred Qualifications:

§ Experience in pallet manufacturing or lumber handling

§ Experience with multiple types of forklifts (e.g., sit-down, stand-up)

§ Familiarity with inventory management systems or RF scanners

§ Basic mechanical aptitude for minor equipment troubleshooting

§ Prior experience in a fast-paced production environment

§ Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus

Core Competencies:

1. Humility (lacks ego, team agenda, transparent, trainable, servant orientation)

2. Hungry (extra mile, internally driven, self-starter, excellence, passionate, change agent)

3. People Smart (interpersonal, group dynamics, influential, self-aware, motivating)

4. Competent (knows and can accomplish the task at hand – job, challenges, requirements)

5. Integrity (honest, reliable, transparent, strong character, loyal, righteous)

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities. However, it requires strong influential and leadership capabilities while working with company personnel at multiple levels, customers, and outside vendors.

Physical Demands:

This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting throughout the shift. Employees must be able to safely lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis. The role involves operating heavy machinery for extended periods, requiring good hand-eye coordination, depth perception, and the ability to always remain alert. Repetitive movements and working in varying positions are common.

Work Environment:

The work environment is a pallet manufacturing facility that may include exposure to loud noise, dust, wood debris, and varying temperatures depending on the season. Employees will work around moving machinery, forklifts, and production lines in a high-traffic area. Strict adherence to safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), is required at all times.

Hours of Work:

This is a full-time position that will be assigned to a certain shift (I.e., 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.). Days and hours of work are normally Monday through Friday, with an 8-to-12-hour work period per day. Exact time of day depends on the assigned shift. Some overtime, night, and/or weekend work may be required.

Travel:

This position normally requires no travel.

AAP/EEO Statement:

All recruiting, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, and other employment related decisions are provided fairly to all persons on an equal opportunity basis without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Tree Brand Packaging has been a leading manufacturer of custom wood pallets, crates, and packaging products for over 30 years. With eight locations across the Southeast (NC, SC, AL, TN, LA), we serve a wide range of industries, including steel, automotive, telecommunications, material handling, military, aerospace, and import/export. Our innovative design solutions and commitment to exceptional customer service help meet the unique needs of our clients. We aim to build valued partnerships, address supply-chain challenges, and support customers in reducing costs and improving profitability.

Company Description

Tree Brand Packaging has been a leading manufacturer of custom wood pallets, crates, and packaging products for over 30 years. With eight locations across the Southeast (NC, SC, AL, TN, LA), we serve a wide range of industries, including steel, automotive, telecommunications, material handling, military, aerospace, and import/export. Our innovative design solutions and commitment to exceptional customer service help meet the unique needs of our clients. We aim to build valued partnerships, address supply-chain challenges, and support customers in reducing costs and improving profitability.