Forklift Operator - Warehouse

Northland Services is a stevedore company specializing in flat deck barge operations. We consolidate freight from our customers and vendors destined for delivery to and from Alaska and Hawaii. We are a close knit hard working group that strives to deliver cargo to our customers in an efficient and timely manner. We are always looking for hard working intelligent individuals who are interested in building a career in the marine logistics industry and we look forward to hearing from you.

Forklift Operator - Warehouse

Northland Services

Location: Seattle, WA (6700 West Marginal Way SW)

Job Type: Seasonal, Full‑Time, Non‑Exempt

Start Date: ASAP

Reports To: Warehouse Operations Manager

Safety‑Sensitive Position

Job Summary

Northland Services is seeking a Freight Operations - Warehouse team member to support the safe, accurate, and efficient handling of cargo shipped by barge to, from, and within Alaska and Hawaii. This role involves forklift operation, physical freight handling, and customer interaction in a fast‑paced terminal environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Load, unload, and move freight using forklifts (up to 6,000 lbs.) and by hand as needed
• Count, inspect, weigh, and verify inbound and outbound shipments against Bills of Lading
• Identify and document cargo damage and packaging deficiencies using technology tools
• Secure freight using banding, dunnage, lumber, binders, and chains to prevent damage in transit
• Consolidate freight efficiently by destination, temperature, size, and cargo type
• Load containers and platforms using judgment based on cargo characteristics
• Assist customers with cargo handling procedures and shipping documentation
• Inspect, clean, and prepare equipment prior to reloading
• Maintain warehouse, equipment, and terminal housekeeping
• Support other departments as operational needs require
• Follow all federal, state, and local regulations along with company safety policies

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Forklift certification and freight or break‑bulk experience preferred
• Ability to work independently or with a team in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness
• Basic computer skills (Windows, Excel, Outlook)

Certificates, Licenses, and Requirements

• Eligible to apply for and obtain a TWIC card
• Valid driver's license and good driving record preferred
• Able to meet forklift certification requirements

Physical Requirements

• Regular standing, walking, bending, climbing, kneeling, and balancing
• Regular lifting up to 50 lbs., frequent lifting up to 70 lbs., and occasional lifting up to 100 lbs.
• Ability to work around moving machinery, loud noise, and outdoor conditions

Employment Conditions

Employment offers are contingent upon a satisfactory physical, background check, and pre‑employment drug screen. This position is subject to random drug testing.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Northland Services is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected status under federal, state, or local law. Veterans and minorities are encouraged to apply.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Priority referrals for protected veterans.

This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice. Federal law requires Northland Services to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. Northland Services will provide the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employees Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.