Dockhand - Marina Fork Lift Driver Full Time

Hilton; Key West (FL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Hilton in Key West is seeking a Marine Forklift Driver to operate marina forklifts and associated equipment for launching, retrieving, transporting, and storing vessels. You will assist with dock operations and provide professional service to boat owners, guests, and marina tenants while upholding safety and environmental procedures.

Responsibilities include vessel handling, equipment inspections, and coordinating movements with marina management.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Previous marine forklift operation experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate marine forklifts, boat lifts, and related equipment to launch, retrieve, transport, and rack-store vessels.
• Assist with docking/undocking and vessel arrivals/departures, coordinating with marina staff and owners.
• Conduct daily pre-shift inspections and report mechanical issues; maintain equipment cleanliness and logs.
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures when equipment requires service.

Skills

Forklift operation

Marina operations

Safety procedures

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Forklifts

Inspection logs

Job description

The Marine Forklift Driver is responsible for the safe operation of marina forklifts and related equipment to launch, retrieve, transport, and store vessels. This position supports marina operations by ensuring vessels are handled safely and efficiently while providing professional service to boat owners, guests, and marina tenants. The Marine Forklift Driver maintains equipment, assists with dock operations, and helps ensure compliance with marina safety standards and environmental procedures.

Vessel Handling and Storage

• Safely operate marine forklifts, boat lifts, and related equipment to launch, retrieve, transport, and rack-store vessels.
• Position vessels accurately within dry storage facilities, staging areas, and designated marina locations.
• Secure vessels in storage locations using established marina procedures.
• Inspect vessels for existing damage prior to movement and report concerns immediately.
• Follow manufacturer operating guidelines and marina safety procedures when handling vessels.

Marina Operations

• Assist with docking and undocking vessels as required.
• Provide support during vessel arrivals and departures.
• Coordinate vessel movements with marina management, dock staff, and vessel owners.
• Maintain clear communication with marina personnel to support safe and efficient operations.
• Assist with fueling or related marina services when authorized and trained.

Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

• Conduct daily pre-shift inspections of forklifts and equipment.
• Monitor equipment condition and promptly report mechanical issues.
• Maintain forklift cleanliness and operating readiness.
• Complete equipment inspection logs and maintenance records as required.
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures when equipment requires service.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous marine forklift operation experience preferred.
• Experience working in a marina, marine service facility, boatyard, or related environment preferred.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record required.