15K Forklift Operator - Houston, TX

Watco; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-job training

Safety‑first culture

Competitive compensation

Job summary

Watco in Houston, TX is hiring a Forklift Operator to support high‑level operational efficiency. You will operate forklifts, perform pre‑shift inspections, and maintain safety standards in a fast-paced environment. Shifts include day/night and weekends as needed, with training and support from peer trainers.

The role emphasizes teamwork, dependability, and adherence to safety protocols, with benefits and ongoing development opportunities through Watco University.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older with HS/GED or equivalent.
• 3 years of forklift experience with safe load handling preferred.
• Familiarity with WMS or handheld scanners preferred.
• Must be able to pass required certifications and testing.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts 8k-65k+ lbs depending on skill.
• Inspect equipment prior to use and during operation.
• Demonstrate performance toward operational excellence.
• Communicate with stakeholders during shifts.
• Wear Watco and OSHA mandated PPE.
• Work with a team and be flexible for overtime or weekend shifts.
• Follow company safety programs.

Skills

Follow written instructions

Safe load handling

Teamwork

Weight limits & load distribution

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift Operator Certification

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Job description

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco.

Here's What You Can Expect From Watco

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek


• Competitive compensation and benefits


• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers


• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center


• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University


• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

Starting Pay Rate: $21 per hour

Schedule: 8-12 hour shifts with no set schedule - including day or night shifts and weekend shifts as needed

Location: 14035 Industrial Rd., Houston, TX 77015

As a 15K Forklift Operator, this role supports the efficiency of operations at a high-level performance with a strong emphasis on safety, teamwork, and operational excellence. The team members must be dependable, follow company safety protocols, wear required PPE, and be available for shift work, overtime, and off-hour responses.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts 8k-65k and up depending on skillset


• Perform inspections of equipment being utilized prior to use and during use as needed


• Demonstrate performance toward operational excellence


• Communicates with operational stake holders throughout shift


• Wearing all Watco and OSHA mandated personal protective equipment


• Able to work with a team, take direction and follow work rules, as well as take on additional job responsibilities as needed


• Demonstrate knowledge of company safety programs

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be able to pass and/or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position and location. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately

Knowledge of weight limits, load distribution, and material storage protocols

• 3 years of experience working with or around forklifts, with demonstrated skill in safe load handling, stacking, and maneuvering in confined spaces preferred


• Basic mechanical skills with knowledge of equipment inspection, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance preferred


• Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS) or handheld scanners preferred


• Maintain regular, dependable attendance


• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including day and night shifts, with availability for overtime, weekends, and holidays as required by business needs


• Forklift Operator certification preferred


• Must have a valid TWIC card

Education

Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent