Forklift Operator

Position Overview
A Forklift Operator safely and efficiently moves, stacks, and retrieves materials in a warehouse, distribution center, or manufacturing environment. This role requires precise control of powered industrial trucks, adherence to safety protocols, and coordination with inventory and shipping/receiving teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate electric or propane-powered forklifts to load, unload, and transport materials to designated locations.
  
  
• Stack and retrieve pallets, crates, and other containers up to specified heights while maintaining load stability.
  
  
• Inspect forklifts before each shift, reporting any mechanical issues or safety concerns to maintenance.
  
  
• Follow established routing and stacking protocols to optimize warehouse space and workflow.
  
  
• Assist with cycle counts, inventory audits, and material handling documentation.
  
  
• Secure loads properly using straps, bands, or shrink wrap as required.
  
  
• Communicate with supervisors, inventory clerks, and team members to coordinate material movements.
  
  
• Comply with OSHA and company safety regulations, including wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  
  

Qualifications & Skills

• High school diploma or GED, or equivalent work experience.
  
  
• Valid forklift operator certification (or willingness to become certified).
  
  
• Minimum 1 year of forklift or material-handling experience preferred.
  
  
• Strong spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination.
  
  
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, load plans, and safety signage.
  
  
• Basic math skills for counting and load calculations.
  
  
• Good communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.
  
  
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and operate a forklift for extended periods (up to 8 hours/day).
  
  
• Frequent bending, twisting, reaching, and lifting (up to 50 lbs as needed).
  
  
• Comfortable working in varying temperatures (warehouse conditions may range from cool to warm).
  
  
• Clear vision (with or without corrective lenses) to safely navigate aisles and read labels.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Warehouse or production floor environment with possible exposure to noise, dust, or moving equipment.
  
  
• Shift schedules may include early mornings, nights, weekends, or overtime depending on business needs.
  
  
• Strict adherence to all safety procedures, including lockout/tagout and hazard communication.
  
  

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.