| Location | Gastonia, NC |
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.