Forklift Operator
The Forklift Operator plays a key role in supplying the production line by accurately picking parts, hardware, and subassemblies from the warehouse. This position operates a sit-down forklift for the majority of the shift while also performing manual loading, counting, and inventory tasks to ensure materials are delivered to the correct locations on time.
Responsibilities
- Pick parts, hardware, and subassemblies from warehouse storage to feed the production line according to printed pick sheets.
- Operate a sit-down forklift approximately 70% of the time in a high-traffic warehouse environment, following all safety procedures.
- Load, unload, and count parts by hand when required, ensuring accuracy in quantities and part identification.
- Use printed pick sheets with bin locations to locate materials and deliver them to designated areas on the production line.
- Assist with unloading trucks and receiving product to restock shelves and maintain adequate inventory levels.
- Perform regular inventory counts and support inventory control activities, including during line shutdowns and holiday periods.
- Handle materials using pallet jacks and other material handling equipment as needed.
- Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas in both the warehouse and production plant.
- Communicate clearly with team members and supervisors regarding material shortages, discrepancies, and delivery status.
- Follow all safety guidelines, including proper use of personal protective equipment, and adhere to warehouse and plant procedures.
Essential Skills
- Minimum of 6 months of forklift or equipment operation experience.
- Strong sit-down forklift operating skills suitable for a high-traffic warehouse environment.
- Ability to perform accurate material handling, including picking, packing, parts pulling, and pallet handling.
- Capability to read and write clearly to interpret pick sheets, part numbers, and bin locations.
- Ability to understand and work with part numbers, bin locations, and delivery destinations on the production line.
- Experience with inventory tasks such as counting, restocking, and verifying material quantities.
- Comfort working with RF scanners or willingness to learn RF scanner use.
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills to ensure accurate picking and inventory control.
- Ability to work the scheduled hours and participate in additional shifts as required for inventory and production support.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- RF scanner experience is a plus but not required; training is provided.
- Will receive formal training and certification on equipment operation during the first week.
- Material handling experience in a production plant or warehouse environment is beneficial.
- Experience with pallet jacks and other warehouse equipment is an advantage.
- Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with frequent material movement.
- Reliability and strong work ethic to support production schedules and inventory activities.
Why Work Here?
Join a team that is actively revitalizing a well-known brand and be part of the ground-floor transformation of its production and warehouse operations. You will have the opportunity to grow your skills through training and equipment certification, contribute directly to a dynamic manufacturing environment, and work with colleagues who value accuracy, safety, and teamwork.
Work Environment
This role is based in a production plant with a busy warehouse that moves a high volume of materials and parts every day to supply the production line. The schedule typically runs from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, with frequent work on Fridays to prepare for the following week. The warehouse team also works during line shutdowns, including holiday shutdowns, to complete inventory activities. The environment involves regular use of forklifts, pallet jacks, and material handling equipment, with significant traffic and continuous material flow. Steel-toed boots and safety glasses are required, and adherence to safety protocols is essential.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Thief River Falls, MN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Thief River Falls, MN.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.