Forklift-Certified Lead Material Handler

Pearson; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Pearson is seeking a Material Handler Lead to coordinate day-to-day material movement and staging activities to support production and shipping goals. This role provides hands-on leadership to a small team, helps prioritize work, and ensures accurate inventory handling while maintaining safety and housekeeping standards.

You will lead daily workflow, perform hands-on material handling, coordinate inbound/outbound activities, support inventory accuracy, operate forklifts, and train teammates on

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• 2+ years of warehouse/materials experience; lead experience preferred.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily workflow by assigning tasks, setting priorities, and balancing labor to meet production/shipping schedules.
• Perform hands-on material handling while guiding others (loading/unloading, staging, put-away, replenishment, picking).
• Coordinate inbound/outbound activities and communicate status/issues to supervisors and internal customers (production, shipping, planning).
• Support inventory accuracy: verify counts, help resolve discrepancies, assist with cycle counts.
• Operate material-handling equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and carts (as trained/authorized).
• Train and coach team members on safe work practices, standard procedures, and quality expectations.
• Maintain safety and housekeeping; ensure aisles/exits are clear; report hazards or incidents promptly.
• Escalate equipment, quality, or staffing concerns; assist with shift handoffs and basic reporting.
• Other duties as directed by department leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Prioritization

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift Certification

Job description

Pearson is seeking a Material Handler Lead to coordinate day-to-day material movement and staging activities to support production and shipping goals. This role provides hands-on leadership to a small team, helps prioritize work, and ensures accurate inventory handling while maintaining safety and housekeeping standards.

You will lead daily workflow, perform hands-on material handling, coordinate inbound/outbound activities, support inventory accuracy, operate forklifts, and train teammates on