Job Description:
Job Description About the role We're looking for a skilled, safety-minded forklift operator to handle heavy and oversized freight at our Brighton warehouse. This isn't standard pallet work: you'll run a high-capacity forklift rated for loads up to 20,000 lbs with 10-foot forks, moving large, awkward, and high-value items in and out of the building. The right person is precise, takes ownership of the warehouse floor, and catches problems before they become claims.
What you'll do:- Safely operate a heavy-duty forklift (20,000 lb capacity, 10 ft forks) to load, unload, move, and stage large and oversized freight
- Load in and load out trucks, including flatbeds, dry vans, and containers, using proper load placement, weight distribution, and securement practices
- Inspect all inbound and outbound freight and accurately report Overages, Shortages, and Damages (OS&D) with counts, notes, and photos, before signing for or releasing freight
- Verify freight against bills of lading, delivery receipts, and work orders
- Organize and maintain the warehouse layout so freight is stored safely, labeled clearly, and easy to locate
- Keep aisles, docks, and staging areas clean, clear, and hazard-free
- Perform daily pre-shift forklift inspections and report any mechanical or safety issues immediately
- Communicate with drivers, dispatch, and the operations team on appointment times, freight condition, and any discrepancies
- Follow all OSHA and company safety procedures, and help keep everyone on the floor safe
What we're looking for:- 3+ years of forklift experience, including heavy-capacity forklifts (15,000 lbs and up strongly preferred)
- Proven experience handling oversized, heavy, or irregular freight with extended forks
- Current forklift operator certification preferred (we will complete site-specific OSHA evaluation and certification on our equipment)
- Solid working knowledge of load-in/load-out procedures and cargo securement
- Experience documenting OS&D and reading bills of lading
- Strong organizational skills and a habit of keeping a tidy, efficient warehouse
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently with minimal supervision
- Professional references required, ideally including a prior warehouse supervisor or manager who can speak to your equipment skills and safety record
- Reliable transportation to Brighton
Nice to have:- Experience with drayage or container freight
- Familiarity with a warehouse management system (WMS) or handheld scanners
- Experience operating other equipment (reach truck, telehandler, overhead crane)
Physical requirements:- Ability to sit on equipment for extended periods and to climb on and off machinery frequently
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs as needed
- Comfortable working in a warehouse environment with seasonal temperature changes, noise, and outdoor dock work
- Good depth perception and situational awareness around trucks, people, and freight
