Dock & Freight Forklift Operator - Day Shift

Forward Air Corp.; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 53,451,000 - 67,227,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a Freight Handler (Forklift Operator) to safely load, unload, and move freight in a fast-paced dock environment.

You will operate sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks, stage cargo, and use handheld scanners to ensure accurate documentation and shipping readiness. The role requires 3+ years dock/warehouse experience, a valid forklift certification, and the ability to communicate in English.

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing, to understand safety and operational instructions, work assignments, and freight documentation.
• Ability to recognize numbers, labels, barcodes, and freight markings accurately, and to perform basic arithmetic to verify freight counts, quantities, and weights.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks, along with other MHE such as pallet jacks, carts, and dollies.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors, trailers, and designated warehouse areas.
• Label, scan, and track freight using handheld scanners and company systems to ensure accuracy and documentation integrity.
• Identify damaged freight and promptly report issues, unsafe conditions, or equipment concerns to supervisory personnel.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized dock environment, including work areas, tools, and MHE.
• Assist with dock coordination, workflow management, and problem resolution.

Skills

English communication

Basic arithmetic

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Sit-down forklift

Stand-up forklift

Reach truck

Pallet jack

Handheld scanners

Job description

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a Freight Handler (Forklift Operator) to safely load, unload, and move freight in a fast-paced dock environment.

You will operate sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks, stage cargo, and use handheld scanners to ensure accurate documentation and shipping readiness. The role requires 3+ years dock/warehouse experience, a valid forklift certification, and the ability to communicate in English.