1st Shift Forklift Operator - Recycling Handling

Aerotek; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Aerotek seeks a Forklift Operator for the 1st shift in Madison, WI. The role involves operating sit-down gas forklifts, moving materials, and performing basic maintenance while working indoors and outdoors in a fast-paced environment.

You will handle loading/unloading, use pallet jacks, and support general labor tasks to ensure smooth facility operations. A strong safety mindset and reliability are essential for this physically demanding role.

Qualifications

• Experience operating sit-down gas forklifts.
• 1+ year operating skid steers, loaders, or similar machinery.
• Proven material handling experience in an industrial, warehouse, or recycling environment.
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds regularly.
• Experience using pallet jacks and other basic material handling tools.
• Comfort working around garbage, recycling materials, and in hot, dirty, and loud conditions.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors for extended periods.
• Strong adherence to safety procedures and equipment operating guidelines.
• Willingness to work 1st shift, Monday through Friday, with occasional Saturdays.

Responsibilities

• Operate sit-down gas forklifts to move, stack, and transport recycling material and garbage throughout the facility.
• Load, unload, and relocate materials, ensuring safe and efficient material handling at all times.
• Empty full containers and bins and move them to designated areas for processing or disposal.
• Perform general preventative maintenance on forklift equipment to keep machinery in safe working condition.
• Use additional material handling equipment such as pallet jacks, loaders, and skid steers if experienced or once hired directly.
• Assist with general labor tasks, including picking, loading, and other duties as needed to support facility operations.
• Work both indoors and outdoors in varying conditions, including hot, dirty, and loud environments around garbage and recycling materials.
• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Collaborate with team members and help out wherever needed to ensure smooth and efficient facility operations.
• Lift and move heavy items, including loads of 50 pounds or more, as part of daily tasks.

Skills

Forklift operation

Small equipment operation

Material handling

Heavy lifting

Pallet jacks

Safety compliance

Indoor/outdoor work

Team collaboration

Overtime willingness

Tools

Skid steers

Loaders

Balers

Job description

Aerotek seeks a Forklift Operator for the 1st shift in Madison, WI. The role involves operating sit-down gas forklifts, moving materials, and performing basic maintenance while working indoors and outdoors in a fast-paced environment.

You will handle loading/unloading, use pallet jacks, and support general labor tasks to ensure smooth facility operations. A strong safety mindset and reliability are essential for this physically demanding role.