Fork Lift Operator

The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently moving materials throughout the yard, warehouse, and production areas. This position operates forklifts and other material-handling equipment to load, unload, transport, and store materials to support manufacturing and shipping operations. The Forklift Operator may also operate heavy equipment, such as forwarders, as needed. This role works under moderate supervision and requires sound judgment, attention to safety, and the ability to perform a variety of material handling tasks.

$20.00 - $22.00 per hour, based on skills and experience.

• Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, railcars, and other transport vehicles.
• Move raw materials, finished products, and supplies between storage, production, and shipping areas.
• Operate forklifts or other heavy equipment when assigned.
• Ensure materials are stored, stacked, and secured properly to prevent damage.
• Maintain accurate records of material movement, inventory transactions, and shipping activities as required.
• Conduct pre-shift equipment inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of safety hazards.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and work standards.
• Assist with inventory counts and material verification activities.
• Support production and shipping schedules by moving materials on time.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or GED.
• 1-3 years of forklift, material handling, warehouse, yard operations, or related experience.
• Ability to safely operate forklifts and other powered industrial equipment.
• Ability to work in an outdoor industrial environment and varying weather conditions.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials as required.

• Current forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.
• Experience operating forwarders, loaders, or other heavy equipment.
• Experience in manufacturing, lumber, wood products, or industrial operations.

• Forklift Operation
• Material Handling
• Equipment Safety
• Inventory Control
• Communication and Teamwork
• Problem Solving
• Time Management
• Attention to Detail

• Frequent operation of forklifts and mobile equipment.
• Regular exposure to outdoor weather conditions, dust, noise, and industrial environments.
• Standing, walking, bending, climbing, and lifting throughout the workday.
• Overtime and weekend work may be required based on operational needs.

Reports directly to the Supervisor or Manager.

Independent Stave Company offers competitive compensation and benefits to employees at each of our facilities.

Benefits include:

• Medical Insurance (available after 30 days)
• Annual Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs) that cover the cost of single-pay insurance
• Competitive wages based on experience and position
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Vacation
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with employer matching contributions equal to 50% of eligible employee contributions

Some benefits are available only to full-time employees or after designated waiting periods.

For more than 100 years, Independent Stave Company has continued to evolve through a commitment to quality, innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship. Our success is built on the dedication of our employees and strong partnerships with distillers and winemakers around the world. Join a company with a rich history and an exciting future.

Independent Stave Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.