About the Opportunity:
• Job Title: Forklift Operator
• Pay Rate: $20.00/hr
• Location: Lester Prairie, MN
• Schedule: 1st Shift Monday-Thursday 5AM-3PM
• Position Type: Temp to Hire
Requirements and Qualifications:
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to successfully complete forklift or mobile equipment certification (or ability to obtain).
• Experience operating industrial mobile equipment in a manufacturing or warehouse setting.
• Strong attention to safety, situational awareness, and communication skills.
• Excellent hand–eye coordination and depth perception.
• Ability to judge load size, balance, and machine stability.
• Strong awareness of surroundings and multi-tasking in active work zones.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., climb stairs and ladders, squatting, kneeling, and extended periods of standing.
• Overtime will be required on Fridays and Saturdays in the busy season.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Operate forklifts, loaders, and other mobile equipment to move and transfer raw materials and finished products.
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, and hoppers in accordance with safety and quality standards.
• Supply production lines with materials and remove finished goods as directed.
• Conduct pre-shift equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.
• Maintain accurate material movement and inventory records.
• Follow all plant safety rules, traffic guidelines, and PPE requirements.
• Assist with housekeeping, waste handling, and general plant support activities.
• Communicate effectively with production, shipping, and maintenance teams.
• Ability to safely refuel and/or recharge vehicles.
• Ability to remove and clean debris from equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret the machine data plate to verify load capacity dependent on the attachment in use.
• Understand the Stability Triangle and how reach, height and unlevel surfaces affect stability.
• Use attachments (e.g., buckets, forks, grapples, snow pushers, sweepers) as assigned.
• Perform precise maneuvering in tight spaces and around personnel, vehicles, utilities, and structures.
Forklift Operators (counterbalance or reach):
• Before beginning any loading/unloading operations, ensure the trailer is properly secured. This may include jack stands, wheel chocks, glad hand locks, ICC bumper restraints, etc.
• Prior to loading, the operator is to complete a ship readiness report.
• After loading or unloading, ensure the above is removed, and all work is complete prior to releasing the trailer.
Discover Award Staffing:
At Award Staffing, we believe that work should be more than just a paycheck—it should inspire, empower, and create a sense of purpose. We’re passionate about connecting people through meaningful work that truly fits their skills and aspirations. Voted Minnesota's Top Staffing Agency to work for by the Star Tribune, we partner with companies of all sizes to help you find a role where you can thrive. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s find the job that’s right for you.
Why Award Staffing:
• Values Matching: We don’t just help you find a job; we connect you with a company that aligns with your values, ensuring it’s the right fit for who you are.
• Professional & Personal Growth: Your growth matters to us. We focus on finding positions that offer opportunities for skill development and personal fulfillment, so you can thrive in every aspect of your life.
• Impact: The work you do should make a difference. We're committed to placing you in roles where you can have a meaningful impact on your life and the community around you.
Benefits:
*May accrue up to 48 hours of paid sick time per year
*Medical
*Dental
*Vision
*Short-term disability
*401k
AAP/EEO Statement:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Award Staffing Inc. is a Drug-Free Workplace/EEO Employer.