Forklift Operator

Express Employment Professionals - Cincinnati East; Lisle (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Express Employment Professionals - Cincinnati East is seeking a Forklift Operator to support warehouse and production operations in Lisle, IL. You will safely operate forklifts, load/unload trailers, move materials between receiving and shipping areas, and maintain accurate inventory records using RF scanners and WMS.

The role requires lifting up to 50 pounds, attention to safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment as part of a diverse team; previous forklift experience and

Qualifications

• Must safely operate material handling equipment and follow safety policies.
• Able to lift up to 50 lb repeatedly and maintain good physical stamina.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in inventory and documentation.
• Reliable attendance and ability to work well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts and material handling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload trailers, verify shipments for accuracy and damage.
• Transport materials between receiving, production, storage and shipping areas.
• Move, stack, organize, and secure pallets and inventory, prepare for shipment.

Skills

Operate equipment safely

Lift 50 pounds

Attention to detail

Team player

Work in fast-paced environment

Reliable attendance

Safety-focused

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

RF scanners

Warehouse management systems (WMS)

Job description

Position Summary

The Forklift Operator plays a critical role in supporting warehouse and production operations by safely and efficiently moving materials throughout the facility. This position and is responsible for loading unloading trailers, transporting inventory, maintaining accurate documentation, performing equipment inspections, and ensuring adherence to all safety, quality, and operational standards.

Key Responsibilities

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety standards, and established operating procedures.
• Perform daily pre- and post-operation forklift inspections and report any equipment issues, rack damage, inventory discrepancies, or safety concerns to supervisors.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment through "Clean as You Go" practices and good housekeeping standards.

Forklift & Material Handling

• Operate forklifts and material handling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload trailers while verifying shipments for accuracy and damage.
• Transport materials between receiving, production, storage, and shipping areas.
• Move, stack, organize, and secure pallets, raw materials, finished goods, inventory, freight, and supplies.
• Wrap finished goods and prepare products for shipment as needed.
• Hand-sort pallets accurately and efficiently according to quality and grade standards.

Inventory & Documentation

• Scan and track material movements using RF scanners and warehouse inventory systems.
• Complete trailer load/unload documentation accurately.
• Maintain accurate inventory, quality, productivity, and safety records.
• Support inventory accuracy through attention to detail and proper product handling.

General Warehouse Duties

• Assist with production and warehouse operations as needed.
• Work effectively within a diverse team environment.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by site leadership.

Qualifications

Required

• Ability to safely operate material handling equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds consistently throughout the shift.
• Ability to bend, twist, reach, walk, stand, and perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the workday.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to workplace safety.
• Reliable attendance and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced warehouse, logistics, manufacturing, or production environment.

Preferred

• Previous forklift operating experience.
• Forklift certification (or willingness to obtain company-provided certification).
• Experience in warehouse, logistics, manufacturing, or distribution environments.
• Experience with RF scanners and warehouse management systems.
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent work experience.

Physical Requirements

• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Perform repetitive motions including bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, pulling, and lifting.
• Stand, walk, and operate equipment for extended periods.
• Work in a fast-paced warehouse or manufacturing environment.

Success Factors

• Safety-focused mindset.
• Strong work ethic and reliability.
• Commitment to quality and inventory accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.