1st Shift Forklift Operator

Location: Hickory, NC 28602
Pay Rate: $19.00 per hour
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 5:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Overtime: Optional Saturdays available
Job Type: Full-Time | Temp-to-Hire

Position Overview

We are seeking a reliable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to join our team in Hickory, NC. This position is responsible for loading, unloading, moving, and organizing materials while supporting warehouse and customer order fulfillment operations. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments and have previous forklift experience in a fast-paced warehouse or distribution setting.

Experience loading and unloading drywall or similar building materials is a plus.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate a Hyster forklift safely and efficiently to move materials throughout the facility.
• Load and unload palletized materials from trucks and flatbeds.
• Pull, build, and prepare customer orders for shipment.
• Break down pallets and re-palletize materials according to order requirements.
• Secure and band materials for safe transportation and delivery.
• Assist with inventory organization and inventory control activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Follow all company safety procedures and operational guidelines.
• Work both indoors and outdoors as business needs require.

Qualifications

• Previous Hyster forklift operating experience required.
• Ability to safely load and unload materials from trucks and flatbeds with Heavy industrial forklifts would be a plus!
• Experience in warehouse, distribution, lumber, building materials, or related industries preferred.
• Drywall handling and loading experience is a plus.
• Basic inventory and order fulfillment experience preferred.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions and non-temperature-controlled environments.
• Strong attention to safety and detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout the workday.
• Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions as needed.
• Ability to safely handle materials and perform warehouse-related tasks.

Required PPE

• Steel-toe boots are required.
• Hard hat and high-visibility vest are required while working in designated areas.
• Hard hats and high-visibility vests may be provided if needed.