Forklift Operator, Assembly

About Hand2mind We bring learning to life! Trusted by teachers for more than 55+ years, hand2mind creates engaging, classroom-tested materials that empower children to learn by doing. We are a 150-person strong, family-owned company that's been voted one of the Chicago Tribune's Top Workplaces for the last four consecutive years. In addition to building high-quality, hands-on learning materials for the classroom like VersaTiles® and Cuisenaire® Rods, we also develop educational toys for the home that make learning math, reading, social-emotional learning, and STEM fun and interactive. As a company, we are committed to our employee’s personal and professional development. That’s why we offer a competitive benefits package, a supportive culture, and a variety of training and development opportunities. We are looking for professionals who are truly just kids at heart! We hope you’ll come join our award-winning team today!

Team & Position Description We are currently seeking a Forklift Operator to join our Warehouse Assembly team. The Forklift Operator is responsible for ensuring assigned workload is completed with maximum accuracy and efficiency at the hand2mind distribution center in Vernon Hills, Illinois. This includes, but is not limited to, customer order picking, replenishing, shipping activities, and daily assignments to support these activities. This position reports to hand2minds Manager for Assembly Operations.

What We’re Looking For (Key Performance Objectives)

• Accurate Order Fulfillment
• Maintain 99% picking accuracy when fulfilling customer orders using RF scanners.
• Complete order picks within assigned timeframes while adhering to location, product code, lot number, and quantity requirements.
• Sustain consistent productivity levels within the assigned zone.
• Timely Replenishment (Reverse Picking)
• Replenish designated locations with finished goods within required time standards.
• Ensure 100% accuracy in product placement and documentation during replenishment activities.
• Policy & Procedure Compliance
• Demonstrate full adherence to all company policies, SOPs, and warehouse procedures.
• Maintain zero policy violations throughout the review period.
• Communication & Team Collaboration
• Communicate effectively with warehouse personnel and supervisors/leads to support smooth workflow and order fulfillment.
• Proactively report issues, delays, or inventory discrepancies within established communication channels.
• Safety & Regulatory Compliance
• Follow all safety guidelines and warehouse procedures with zero safety violations.
• Adhere to operational procedures and contribute to a safe, organized warehouse environment.
• Participate in required safety training and contribute to a safe working environment.
• Maintain 100% compliance with safety and operating rules while operating forklifts and material‑handling equipment.

Requirements/Ideal Attributes

• High School Diploma or GED required
• In-depth, firsthand knowledge and experience as a forklift operator and picking responsibilities with desktop applications, including MS Dynamics 365 F&O, MS Office - MS Word and Excel.
• Able to interpret, understand, follow, and communicate instructions.
• Able to work in a team and independently.
• Excellent communication skills; both verbal and written (read, write) clearly in English.
• Bi-Lingual (Spanish) a plus but not required.
• Flexible working weekends and extended periods of time when needed.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Standing, walking, and bending for extended periods.

We are a drug-free workplace and an EEO employer.

Please note : This role will be filled by our internal recruitment team, so no assistance is needed from any outside staffing agency at this time.

Compensation Range: $21.75 – $22.33 per hour – Actual compensation may vary due to other factors such as: years of experience, skill set and location. Total compensation includes profit sharing bonus potential, 401k matching, and a variety of other benefits (details can be found here ).

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