Container Unloader / Forklift Operator

Parkstone HR; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 55,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Casual to permanent opportunity

Stable long-term employment prospects

Well-maintained equipment

Job summary

Parkstone HR's client, a large Australian transport and logistics business, is seeking an experienced Container Unloader / Forklift Operator to join their busy Tottenham operation on Somerville Road, Melbourne.

In this role you will unload containers, operate forklifts from 2.5 to 16 tonnes, secure loads, perform yard duties and help with general freight handling in a fast-paced environment while maintaining safety standards.

Qualifications

• LF forklift licence and proven forklift operation experience.
• Experience in transport/logistics or container handling.
• Physically fit and able to perform manual labour throughout shift.

Responsibilities

• Safely unload steel, timber and pipe products from containers.
• Operate forklifts from 2.5 to 16 tonne capacity.
• Safely load and unload containers and delivery vehicles.
• Chain, unchain and secure loads per site procedures.
• Assist with stripping and de-choking containers.
• Perform general yard duties and freight handling.
• Conduct daily forklift and equipment pre-start inspections.
• Maintain workplace health and safety compliance.
• Work closely with team to unload freight safely and efficiently.
• Assist with additional operational duties as required.

Skills

LF Forklift Licence

Forklift operation

Transport / logistics experience

Physical fitness

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Punctuality

Overtime willingness

Job description

Our client is a large privately owned Australian transport and logistics business specialising in road transport, wharf cartage, container handling, warehousing and distribution services. Due to continued growth, they are seeking an experienced and hardworking Container Unloader / Forklift Operator to join their busy operation located in Tottenham (Somerville Road). The position offers consistent hours, regular overtime and the opportunity to secure a permanent position for the right candidate.

About the Role

This is a genuine all-rounder role suited to someone who enjoys hands‑on work and isn't afraid to get involved wherever required.

Working in hardworking teams of 3, you will be responsible for unloading 40ft containers carrying steel, timber and pipe products, securing and releasing loads, performing yard duties and operating forklifts throughout the depot. This role requires a strong work ethic, physical fitness and the ability to work safely in a fast‑paced freight environment.

While forklift operation forms part of the role, this is not a forklift‑only position. You will regularly be climbing in containers, chaining and unchaining loads, assisting with container unloading activities and working both outdoors and under awnings in varying weather conditions.

If you're someone who enjoys staying active, working in a practical environment and being part of a close‑knit team, this could be the perfect opportunity.

Important

Please note: This is a genuine all‑rounder position involving container unloading, climbing, load restraint activities, general yard duties and forklift operation. It is not a forklift‑only role. Applicants must be physically fit and comfortable performing manual work throughout the day

Core Responsibilities

Safely unload steel, timber and pipe products from shipping containers.

Operate forklifts ranging from 2.5 tonne through to 16 tonne capacity.

Safely load and unload containers and delivery vehicles.

Chain, unchain and secure loads in accordance with site procedures.

Assist with stripping and de‑choking containers.

Perform general yard duties and freight handling activities.

Conduct daily forklift and equipment pre‑start inspections.

Maintain a high level of workplace health and safety compliance.

Work closely with team members to ensure freight is unloaded safely and efficiently.

Assist with any additional operational duties as required.

Skills & Experience

Current LF Forklift Licence and proven forklift operating experience.

Experience within transport, logistics, steel, timber, freight or container handling environments.

Physically fit and capable of performing manual labour throughout the shift.

Comfortable climbing in containers and working around heavy freight.

Experience operating forklifts up to 16 tonnes highly regarded.

Strong safety focus and awareness.

Reliable, punctual and hardworking attitude.

Ability to work effectively within a team environment.

Willingness to work overtime when required.

What's on Offer

• $40 per hour casual rate
• Monday to Friday - Day shift positions
• 6:00am starts with regular overtime available
• Casual to permanent opportunity
• Stable long‑term employment prospects
• Well‑maintained equipment and facilities
• Supportive team environment

Our client is committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities and customers we serve. We are committed to achieving an inclusive workforce. We stronglyencourage all applications from all backgrounds including the culturally diverse.