Forklift Operator

Aerotek; Buffalo Grove (IL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) with match

Production bonuses twice a year

On-site training and certification

Job summary

Aerotek is seeking a Forklift Operator to safely operate forklifts and manage material flow in a modern, automated warehouse in Buffalo Grove, IL. The role supports receiving, picking, shipping, and inventory control with RF scanning capabilities.

The position demands at least 1 year of forklift experience, accuracy, and a collaborative attitude. This is an onsite, permanent role with competitive benefits and opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of forklift experience in a warehouse environment.
• Proficient with RF scanners for picking and inventory tracking.
• Experience in shipping/receiving and verifying parts.
• Hands-on experience with inventory handling and packing.

Responsibilities

• Receive incoming parts, verify against docs, update system, and store properly.
• Pick parts from low/high racks using forklift; load onto carts.
• Support cycle counting and space consolidation; maintain clean, organized inventory.
• Cross-train in other departments to support operations and meet customer expectations.
• Identify and communicate errors in material handling or documentation; ensure accuracy.
• Follow safety procedures and company policies in warehouse.
• Operate and maintain sit-down and stand-up forklifts per maintenance schedules.
• Maintain neat work area and contribute to teamwork-focused environment.
• Participate in company activities and continuous improvement programs.

Skills

Forklift operation

RF scanner

Shipping/receiving

Inventory handling

WMS/ERP systems

Attention to detail

Safety procedures

Teamwork

High/low rack experience

Education

Forklift certification

Job description

Job Title: Forklift Operator

This role focuses on safely operating forklifts and handling materials to support warehouse receiving, picking, shipping, and inventory control activities in a clean, highly organized, and automated facility. The forklift operator accurately processes incoming and outgoing parts, maintains warehouse organization, and contributes to a positive, team-oriented work environment.

Shift: 1st and 2nd Shift available

Responsibilities

• Receive incoming parts from vendors and internal locations, verify accuracy against documentation, update the computer system, and place items in the correct warehouse locations.
• Pick part orders from both low and high rack locations using a forklift and RF scanner, and load orders onto production carts for further processing.
• Support finished goods and parts maintenance by participating in cycle counting programs, bin and space consolidation initiatives, and maintaining the cleanliness and organization of inventory and the warehouse facility.
• Cross-train within the department and assist in other departments as needed to support overall operations and meet customer expectations.
• Identify potential or recurring errors in material handling or documentation, communicate issues appropriately, and verify both personal work and the work of other associates to ensure accuracy and quality.
• Adhere to the company handbook and all departmental rules and regulations, including strict compliance with safety procedures and respectful conduct toward all employees.
• Operate and maintain warehouse equipment, including sit-down and stand-up forklifts, according to maintenance schedules, and promptly report any equipment problems to supervision.
• Maintain a neat, orderly, and organized work area that supports safe and efficient warehouse operations.
• Accept responsibility for actions and work performed, demonstrate a consistently positive attitude, and contribute effectively to a teamwork-focused environment.
• Show respect at all times for fellow associates, fostering a collaborative and supportive workplace culture.
• Participate in company-sponsored activities such as suggestion programs, quality training, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform packing, shipping, and receiving tasks as assigned, ensuring accurate labeling, documentation, and timely processing of orders.
• Perform other related duties as required to support warehouse, production, and inventory operations.

Essential Skills

• At least 1 year of experience operating sit-down or stand-up forklifts in a warehouse or similar environment.
• Proficiency with RF scanners for picking, inventory tracking, and order processing.
• Experience in shipping and receiving, including checking incoming and outgoing parts for accuracy.
• Hands-on experience with inventory handling, including picking, packing, and material handling tasks.
• Ability to accurately update and work within a computer-based inventory or warehouse management system.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when verifying parts, orders, and inventory records.
• Commitment to following safety procedures and company policies in a warehouse environment.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment while maintaining a positive, cooperative attitude.
• Capability to work in both low and high rack locations using appropriate equipment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Formal forklift qualification or certification, or the ability to obtain certification through on-site training.
• Willingness to cross-train in other functions such as soldering, quality control, and chain operation to support career growth.
• Interest in participating in cycle counting and continuous improvement programs.
• Strong work ethic with reliable attendance and a focus on performance and effort.
• Ability to communicate clearly with supervisors and team members regarding equipment issues, inventory discrepancies, and process improvements.

Why Work Here?

The organization offers a clear path from temporary to permanent employment within approximately 36 months, creating a strong opportunity for long-term stability and growth. Once permanent, employees become eligible for two production bonuses each year, rewarding strong performance and contribution. The culture emphasizes promotion based on attendance, effort, and results rather than tenure, providing motivated individuals with real opportunities for advancement. Comprehensive benefits begin on the first day of permanent employment, including health, dental, vision, pet benefits, and a competitive 401(k) plan with a 6% match, supporting both immediate well-being and long-term financial security. Employees receive on-site training and certification in additional skills, such as soldering, quality control, and chain operation, enabling continuous learning and career development in a highly respected, technology-driven organization.

Work Environment

The role is based in a large, well-lit, temperature-controlled warehouse within a modern, automated facility. The site is part of a broader network of manufacturing and production locations, with the local production building employing approximately 150 people, around 100 of whom work directly in production. The facility is extremely clean, highly organized, and designed for efficiency, with many of the companys own automated drives and motors in use throughout the operation. Warehouse activities rely on forklifts, RF scanners, and computer-based inventory systems, and employees work around advanced automation equipment. The environment supports structured, safe material handling practices and emphasizes orderliness and cleanliness in all work areas.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Buffalo Grove, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $20.90/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your jobclassification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may besubject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefitsavailable for this temporary role may include the following:Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Buffalo Grove, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 24, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Buffalo Grove,IL.

About Aerotek

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.