Yard Operator

What youll do

TheYard Operator is responsible for the safe operation of large-capacity forklifts, container handlers, and specialized lifting equipment used to move electrical transformers, transformer components, and shipping containers throughout the facility and yard. This role demands precision handling of high-value, heavy, and sensitive equipment, strict adherence to load capacity limits, and compliance with OSHA powered industrial truck (PIT) and rigging safety standards.

Responsibilities

Transformer Handling

• Operate large-capacity forklifts (15,000+ lbs) and specialized lifting equipment to load, unload, and position electrical transformers and transformer components (tanks, cores, coils, bushings, radiators)

• Coordinate with riggers, crane operators, and quality personnel when transformers require multi-point lifting or specialized handling

• Verify transformer weight, center of gravity, and lifting point specifications before each move to prevent tipping, oil leaks, or damage to bushings/radiators

• Handle transformers with care to avoid damage to insulation, gaskets, and internal components; report any signs of oil leakage or physical damage immediately

• Position transformers precisely for testing, painting, assembly, or loading onto trailers/flatbeds per shipping instructions

• Follow manufacturer and company handling procedures for oil-filled and dry-type switchgear

Container Handling

• Operate container handling equipment (top loaders, reach stackers, or heavy forklifts with container attachments) to load, unload, and stage shipping containers

• Safely load and secure transformers and heavy equipment inside containers or onto flatbeds/lowboys for export or domestic shipment

• Inspect containers for structural integrity, cleanliness, and suitability before loading high-value equipment

• Coordinate with shipping/logistics teams on container staging, yard placement, and vessel/rail scheduling

• Ensure proper blocking, bracing, and securing of transformers and heavy cargo within containers per shipping and export packaging standards

• Support container yard organization and inventory tracking

General Safety & Operations

• Conduct pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections; report mechanical issues or safety concerns immediately

• Follow all OSHA powered industrial truck (PIT) regulations, rigging safety standards, and company safety protocols

• Maintain accurate records of transformer and container movements, including bills of lading, shipping documents, and inventory transactions

• Communicate with warehouse, engineering, quality, and shipping staff to coordinate material flow and delivery timelines

• Keep equipment clean, charged/fueled, and properly stored at end of shift

• Report near-misses, accidents, or unsafe conditions per company policy

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Valid powered industrial truck (PIT)/forklift certification required for large-capacity equipment (10,000+ lbs); container handler/reach stacker certification a plus

• 2+ years of experience operating large-capacity forklifts or container handling equipment; experience with transformers, heavy electrical equipment, or oversized/high-value cargo strongly preferred

• Working knowledge of rigging basics (sling angles, load charts, center of gravity) preferred

• Strong understanding of load capacity limits and safe handling of heavy, sensitive equipment

• Ability to read work orders, lifting diagrams, and shipping instructions

• Good depth perception, spatial awareness, and physical coordination

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a physically demanding environment

• Strong safety mindset; comfortable working around high-value, oil-filled electrical equipment

Working Conditions

• Warehouse, manufacturing floor, and outdoor container yard environment

• Exposure to varying weather conditions when working in the yard

• Extended periods operating heavy machinery

• May involve working near cranes, rigging crews, and oil-filled equipment

• Will require rotating shifts, weekends, or overtime based on production and shipping schedules

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit/operate controls for extended periods

• Frequent bending, twisting, and reaching

• Good vision (including depth perception) and hearing

• Ability to climb in/out of equipment and onto containers/trailers safely