Sit-Down Forklift Operator | Weekend Shift

Location: Gastonia, NC 28056
Pay Rate: Starting at $17.00 per hour, depending on experience
Job Type: Full-Time
Shift: Weekend Shift (Friday through Sunday)
Schedule: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Experience Required: Minimum 1 year operating a sit-down forklift
Equipment: Propane-Powered Sit-Down Forklift

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, dependable, and safety-focused Sit-Down Forklift Operator to join a fast-paced manufacturing and warehouse operation in Gastonia, NC.

This position is responsible for safely operating a propane-powered sit-down forklift to transport raw materials, move finished products, load and unload trucks, and support daily manufacturing and warehouse operations.

The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of recent, hands-on sit-down forklift experience, strong knowledge of forklift safety procedures, and the ability to work efficiently in a busy industrial environment.

IMPORTANT: All qualified candidates must successfully complete a hands-on forklift driving skills test before being considered for placement.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate a propane-powered sit-down forklift in a manufacturing and warehouse environment.

• Load and unload trucks, trailers, and delivery vehicles.

• Transport raw materials, finished goods, pallets, and supplies throughout the facility.

• Supply production lines and manufacturing departments with materials as needed.

• Stack, organize, and store materials in designated warehouse locations.

• Safely maneuver forklifts in tight spaces, around production equipment, and in high-traffic areas.

• Perform daily pre-operation forklift inspections, including checking tires, forks, brakes, steering, lights, and fluid levels.

• Monitor propane fuel levels and follow established procedures for safely changing propane cylinders.

• Inspect loads for stability, proper positioning, and potential damage before transporting.

• Assist with inventory organization, material staging, and warehouse housekeeping.

• Follow production schedules, work orders, and supervisor instructions.

• Report equipment malfunctions, damaged products, and unsafe conditions immediately.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Follow all OSHA requirements and company safety procedures.

• Assist with general material handling and warehouse duties when forklift operation is not required.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of verifiable, hands-on experience operating a sit-down forklift.

• Experience operating a propane-powered sit-down forklift is required.

• Must successfully pass a hands-on forklift driving skills test.

• Experience loading and unloading trucks and moving palletized materials.

• Ability to safely operate a forklift in an active manufacturing or warehouse environment.

• Knowledge of forklift load capacities, weight distribution, and safe stacking procedures.

• Ability to perform basic forklift safety inspections.

• Understanding of propane forklift operation and safe cylinder-handling procedures.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

• Strong attention to safety, accuracy, and productivity.

• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Must be available to work every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

• Must be comfortable working in an industrial manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous forklift experience in metal fabrication, steel manufacturing, or industrial production.

• Experience transporting heavy, oversized, or irregularly shaped materials.

• Experience working in high-volume manufacturing or warehouse facilities.

• Experience with inventory control, shipping and receiving, and material staging.

• Familiarity with forklift safety standards and OSHA regulations.

• Previous employer-issued forklift training or certification.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and operate a forklift for extended periods.

• Ability to repeatedly climb on and off forklift equipment.

• Ability to lift, push, or pull materials up to 50 pounds, when necessary, with appropriate assistance for heavier items.

• Ability to bend, reach, twist, stand, and walk throughout the shift.

• Comfortable working in an active manufacturing facility with noise, machinery, and changing temperatures.

• Must wear required personal protective equipment, including steel-toe safety boots.

Forklift Driving Skills Test

All candidates must complete and pass a practical forklift driving evaluation.

The evaluation may include:

• Performing a pre-operation forklift safety inspection.

• Demonstrating safe startup and shutdown procedures.

• Driving forward and in reverse while maintaining control.

• Maneuvering safely around obstacles and through designated aisles.

• Picking up, transporting, stacking, and positioning palletized loads.

• Demonstrating proper fork positioning and load stability.

• Loading and unloading materials safely.

• Following pedestrian safety rules and maintaining awareness of surroundings.

• Demonstrating proper parking and equipment shutdown procedures.

Candidates must demonstrate safe operating techniques, equipment control, and confidence operating a propane-powered sit-down forklift.