Forklift Operator

JOB SUMMARY

The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating forklift and material-handling equipment to load, unload, stack, and move lumber, residuals, and other materials throughout Plain Dealing Lumber's mill, yard, and shipping operations. This role plays a critical part in keeping production moving and trucks and railcars loaded on schedule, while maintaining strict compliance with safety protocols at all times. The Forklift Operator works closely with shift supervisors, other equipment operators, and mill personnel to ensure materials are staged, stored, and shipped accurately and safely.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safely operate forklift(s) and other material-handling equipment to load and unload lumber, residuals, and materials from trucks, railcars, and storage areas.
• Stack, sort, and stage lumber and finished product according to grade, size, and order specifications.
• Transport materials between production areas, yard storage, and shipping/receiving docks in a timely manner to support production flow.
• Perform pre-shift and post-shift forklift inspections, checking fluids, tires, forks, and safety equipment; promptly report defects or maintenance needs.
• Load and unload trucks and railcars accurately, verifying quantities, product type, and destination against shipping and production documents.
• Maintain accurate inventory placement and support cycle counts and physical inventory as needed.
• Follow all safety protocols, including speed limits, load capacity limits, pedestrian right-of-way, and required PPE.
• Keep forklift travel paths, yard, and work areas clear of debris and hazards.
• Communicate with supervisors, other equipment operators, and mill personnel to coordinate material flow and avoid production delays.
• Assist with general yard and mill housekeeping and other manual material-handling tasks as needed.
• Immediately report accidents, near-misses, and equipment malfunctions to a supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shift Supervisor.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid forklift operator certification, or ability to obtain PDL forklift certification upon hire (training provided).
• Prior experience operating a forklift or similar industrial equipment preferred.
• Ability to read and understand basic shipping documents, labels, and product specifications.
• Ability to work safely in an outdoor/industrial environment, including exposure to varying weather conditions, noise, and dust.
• Strong attention to detail and a demonstrated commitment to safety.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed based on production demands.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in a sawmill, lumber yard, or manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating multiple types of material-handling equipment (sit-down forklift, reach truck, etc.).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is performed primarily in the mill yard and shipping/receiving areas, with regular exposure to varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain), noise, dust, and moving equipment. The incumbent must be able to safely operate a forklift for extended periods and regularly sit, stand, climb on and off equipment, twist, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs. Required personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hearing protection, high-visibility vest) must be worn at all times in production and yard areas. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Plain Dealing Lumber is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.