Grinder/Forklift Driver

GRINDER / FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Position Summary

The Grinder/Forklift Operator plays an important role in keeping the production process running efficiently by ensuring materials are delivered where they are needed, scrap materials are processed correctly, and production equipment is supplied with the proper raw materials. This position requires safely operating a forklift, maintaining material flow throughout the facility, grinding plastic scrap for reuse, tracking material lots, and following all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-conscious, organized, and comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

PAY - $19.00 + 0.75 cent shift premium for 2nd shift (Hours 3 p.m.- 11 p.m)

OR

PAY - $19.00 + $1.50 shift premium for 3rd shift (Hours 11 p.m.- 7 a.m.)

Requirements

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of one year of manufacturing experience preferred.
• Previous forklift experience required.
• Valid forklift certification or the ability to become certified.

Skills & Qualifications

• Safe forklift operation.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, bending, standing, and walking throughout the shift.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while supporting the production team.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing safety practices.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Material Handling

• Safely transport raw materials, finished products, containers, pallets, and production supplies throughout the facility using a forklift.
• Keep production machines supplied with the correct materials to prevent downtime.
• Move finished products to designated storage or staging areas.
• Deliver containers, skids, and other production materials as needed.

Grinding & Material Processing

• Collect, sort, and grind scrap plastic parts and runners according to material type.
• Clean grinding equipment during material changeovers to prevent contamination.
• Ensure grinders are operating safely and efficiently.
• Mix virgin and regrind materials according to production requirements.
• Maintain proper material levels in hoppers and loading systems.
• Regularly inspect and manage regrind materials to ensure proper quality.

Inventory & Material Tracking

• Label all containers and material bins with the correct material identification.
• Record and verify material lot numbers for production traceability.
• Weigh and label material containers before returning them to storage.
• Break down and dispose of empty containers in designated recycling or disposal areas.

Equipment & Safety

• Perform daily forklift inspections and complete required safety checklists before operating equipment.
• Report damaged equipment, containers, pallets, or bins and properly tag items that require removal from service.
• Inspect returnable containers and quarantine damaged items when necessary.
• Keep all aisles, walkways, emergency exits, and work areas clean, organized, and free of safety hazards.
• Follow all company safety procedures, quality standards, and work instructions.

General Responsibilities

• Support production by responding to material requests in a timely manner.
• Help maintain an organized, clean, and efficient work environment.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to improve safety, quality, and productivity.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by supervision.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently stand and walk throughout the shift.
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials on a regular basis.
• Bend, squat, twist, and reach throughout the workday.
• Safely operate powered industrial equipment.
• Work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures, machine noise, and moving equipment.

Benefits

• PTO
• Holiday Pay
• Health Benefits with Dental & Vision
• Advancement Opportunities