At Mindak Construction, we don't just frame buildings - we help frame the future. As the framing contractor of choice for developers and general contractors, we bring bold ideas to life with in-house design, innovative prefabrication, and lock-in pricing that delivers confidence and clarity from concept to completion.
Since our founding in 2011, we've proudly called Lonsdale, Minnesota home, while our projects rise across the Upper Midwest.
We believe that every team member is a leader, driven by purpose, united by trust, and grounded in the values of the Midwest. Safety, teamwork, and relentless innovation guide everything we do. At Mindak, we are builders of structures, of partnerships, and of careers defined by excellence.
INTERESTED? COME AND JOIN THE TEAM!
Mindak Construction is seeking a reliable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to support our Panel Shop operations. In this role, you'll safely move, stage, load, and organize lumber and materials to keep production running efficiently and the yard safe and organized.
You'll play a key role in ensuring materials are delivered to the right place at the right time, completing required inspection logs, supporting cleanup and stacking, and assisting with general facility maintenance as needed.
Operate a forklift safely and efficiently to support production flow and yard operations.
Load, unload, move, and stage lumber, bundles, pallets, wall components, and supplies.
Stock production areas to prevent downtime and support daily output goals.
Secure loads properly and transport materials without damage (stable stacking, correct fork placement).
Follow forklift traffic patterns, speed limits, and pedestrian safety requirements at all times.
Prioritize production needs and respond quickly to requests from departments and leads.
Maintain organized yard layout and material storage by designated zones.
Keep materials accessible and stored safely (stable stacks, labeled areas, clear aisles).
Rotate materials and assist with staging for production needs.
Assist with receiving shipments and verifying counts/conditions when assigned.
Report damaged material, shortages, or unsafe storage conditions immediately.
Complete daily forklift inspection checklists and document results.
Report equipment issues immediately and remove unsafe equipment from service.
Keep forklift clean, fueled/charged, and ready for the next shift.
Maintain inspection logs and support equipment readiness standards.
Keep loading zones, yard lanes, and staging areas clean, clear, and safe.
Stack materials safely and correctly to prevent damage and hazards.
Remove scrap, banding, broken pallets, and debris to prevent trip hazards.
Support basic facility and yard upkeep (organization, cleaning, basic repairs, exterior maintenance).
Use skid steer as needed for facility cleanup (snow, debris, gravel, dirt) if trained/assigned.
Communicate daily priorities with Shop/Floor Manager, Leads, and production teams.
Confirm staging locations, material requirements, and delivery timelines before moving loads.
Escalate blockers same day (shortages, equipment issues, safety hazards, delays).
Coordinate safely with truck drivers and delivery personnel for loading/unloading.
Use clear hand signals and communication to protect pedestrians and prevent accidents.
Strong safety awareness and commitment to following all PPE, shop rules, and safety procedures.
Ability to operate safely in a busy yard/shop environment with moving equipment and pedestrians.
Attention to detail in load stability, stacking accuracy, staging, and organization.
Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
Ability to follow direction, adjust priorities quickly, and support production needs.
Willingness to perform general labor and facility support tasks as needed.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
3–5 years of logistics, production support, or operations experience in construction or manufacturing preferred.
Forklift experience preferred; must be forklift certified or willing to become certified.
Skid steer experience preferred (or willingness to be trained).
Leadership/supervisory experience preferred (not required).
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs frequently and up to 100 lbs occasionally.
Prolonged standing and frequent bending, stooping, and reaching required daily.
Full range of physical motion required to operate manual and powered tools/equipment.
Work is performed in environments that may be dusty, noisy, and include typical jobsite/shop hazards.
At Mindak Construction, we believe investing in our people is the key to building lasting success-on and off the job site. We offer a well-rounded benefits package designed to support your health, your family, and your future:
Paid Parental Leave
401(k) with Company Match
Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Company-Paid Life Insurance
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Holidays
Professional Development & Certification Assistance
Mindak Construction is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and is committed to diversity and inclusion in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.