Forklift Mechanic

Forward Air Corporation; Groveport (OH); On-site; USD 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corporation in Ohio seeks a skilled Mechanic to maintain tractors, forklifts and MHE across multimodal terminals. You will diagnose and repair critical systems, perform preventive maintenance and ensure DOT compliance for safe operations.

This on‑site role offers a Monday–Friday schedule with 8:00 AM–4:30 PM shifts, targeting uptime and reliability for fleet and warehouse equipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training preferred.
• Forklift certification and CDL Class A or B highly preferred; ASE/DOT certifications desirable.
• Experience repairing tractors, forklifts and MHE required.
• Strong ability to read manuals, wiring diagrams and repair documentation.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, repair, and maintain tractors, including engines, brakes, suspensions and electrical systems.
• Perform maintenance on forklifts (propane, electric, diesel, sit‑down, stand‑up, specialty).
• Troubleshoot and service material handling equipment (MHE) like pallet jacks and reach trucks.
• Conduct scheduled preventive maintenance per manufacturer and company standards.
• Document work orders with diagnostics, parts used and follow‑ups.
• Conduct DOT‑compliant inspections and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Identify root causes and recommend uptime improvements.
• Maintain a clean, safe workspace per OSHA policies.
• Coordinate with operations to prioritize repairs and minimize downtime.
• Assist in inventorying and stocking parts and tools.

Skills

Diagnostic skills

Wiring diagrams

Hand tools use

MS Office

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical/Vocational training

Tools

Diagnostic equipment

Shop machinery

Job description

Job Description

The Mechanic will play a critical role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of our fleet and warehouse equipment within a multimodal transportation terminal, intermodal yard, or contract logistics site. They are responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining tractor trailers, forklifts (all types), and a variety of material handling equipment (MHE). They support operational readiness and uptime by ensuring our transportation and warehouse operations have reliable equipment available when needed. The Mechanic will work closely with operations leadership and maintenance teams to prioritize work orders and uphold safety and compliance standards.

Position

Forklift Mechanic

Compensation

$25-32 per hour

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, repair, and maintain tractor trailers, including engines, brakes, suspensions, electrical, and other critical systems.
• Perform maintenance and repairs on all types of forklifts, including propane, electric, diesel, sit‑down, stand‑up, and specialty units.
• Troubleshoot, service, and maintain material handling equipment (MHE) such as pallet jacks, order pickers, reach trucks, and other warehouse equipment.
• Conduct scheduled preventive maintenance services according to manufacturer and company standards.
• Complete work orders thoroughly, documenting diagnostics, parts used, repairs performed, and follow-up needs.
• Conduct DOT‑compliant inspections and ensure all tractor trailer repairs meet regulatory requirements.
• Identify root causes of recurring issues and recommend solutions that improve equipment uptime.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized workspace consistent with OSHA and company safety policies.
• Coordinate with operations leadership to prioritize equipment repairs and minimize disruption to workflow.
• Assist in inventorying, ordering, and managing parts, shop tools, and maintenance supplies.
• Support equipment installations, component replacements, and system upgrades.
• Ensure all work complies with quality standards and manufacturer specifications.
• Provide input on trends, patterns, or equipment issues to inform future maintenance planning.
• All other duties as assigned to meet evolving business needs.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED required; technical school or vocational training preferred.
• Certification/Licensure: Forklift certification and a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A or B highly preferred; additional mechanical certifications (e.g., ASE, DOT inspector certification) preferred.
• Previous hands‑on experience repairing and maintaining tractor trailers, forklifts, and Material Handling Equipment (MHE) required.
• Strong diagnostic abilities with mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, wiring diagrams, and repair documentation.
• Skilled in the safe use of hand tools, diagnostic equipment, and shop machinery.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Demonstrated discretion and confidentiality in handling and protecting sensitive information.
• Technical: Proficient with common office technologies, including Windows PCs, Microsoft O365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and web conferencing (Teams, Zoom, Webex, etc.).
• Environment: Comfort commuting to/from and working in a 100% on‑site setting (listed in this posting), with travel for related meetings/events.