Fork Lift Operator - Class VII

Forklift Operator - Steel DistributionSchedule: Monday-Friday | 6:00 AM-4:30 PMPosition SummaryThe Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient movement, staging, loading, and organization of steel material throughout the Steel Distribution operation. This position operates heavy-capacity forklifts and works around overhead cranes and rigging equipment to handle large, heavy, and irregularly shaped steel products.

This role requires more than traditional warehouse forklift experience. Successful operators must understand load weight and capacity, material identification, load balance, and the unique safety considerations involved in moving structural steel and other heavy steel products.

Forklift Operators report directly to the Distribution Supervisor and move material and product as directed to support safe and efficient operations.

Primary Responsibilities

Perform and document required daily forklift inspections before operating equipment.Immediately report equipment deficiencies, unusual noises, operating difficulties, or unsafe conditions.Identify material for movement or production and verify applicable material tags, heat numbers, quantities, and other identifying information.Determine or calculate material weight and select equipment with the appropriate rated capacity.Safely pick up, secure, transport, stage, and position large or irregularly shaped steel products.Maintain proper load balance and control when transporting long, heavy, or oversized material.Maintain constant awareness of pedestrians, coworkers, equipment, material, and other hazards within the operating area.Communicate with coworkers before moving material and coordinate safe material movement involving forklifts, overhead cranes, and other equipment.Follow established procedures for the safe use of overhead cranes, rigging, lifting accessories, and material-handling equipment.Assist with stock checks, inventory verification, and physical material counts as directed.Maintain safe and organized material storage and staging areas.Follow all company safety policies, operating procedures, and equipment requirements.Identify and report potential safety hazards or operational deficiencies to management.Attend required safety meetings, training, and equipment certifications.Assist with training and development of other employees when requested.Perform additional duties as assigned to support Steel Distribution operations.

Skills & Qualifications

Minimum 2 years of forklift or heavy material-handling experience in steel distribution, structural steel, metals, pipe, manufacturing, or a comparable heavy industrial environment preferred.Demonstrated ability to safely handle large, long, heavy, and irregularly shaped material.Knowledge of forklift capacities and ability to select appropriate equipment based on material weight and dimensions.Knowledge of overhead crane operation, rigging practices, lifting accessories, and equipment capacities preferred.Ability to calculate or determine material weights and understand equipment load limits.Ability to identify and verify material using tags, heat numbers, and other identifying information.Strong spatial awareness and ability to safely maneuver material in active industrial environments.High level of attention to detail.Strong verbal communication skills and ability to coordinate material movements with coworkers.Demonstrated commitment to safe work practices and procedures.Reliable attendance and ability to consistently work the required schedule.

Schedule: Monday-Friday | 6:00 AM-4:30 PMOvertime may be required based on production and operational needs.

The Experience We're Looking ForThe strongest candidates will have experience moving steel or similarly large and heavy material, rather than experience limited to palletized warehouse products.Experience in a steel service center, structural steel operation, pipe yard, metals distribution facility, fabrication facility, lumber operation, precast operation, or other heavy-material environment may translate well to this position.