Forklift Operator

Sproutup; Statesville (NC); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Sprout is seeking a Forklift Driver to safely move IT assets and materials within the facility, while adhering to Lean, 5S, and Kaizen principles. The role supports ITAD operations and inventory flow in a sustainability-minded warehouse.

Ideal candidates have 1+ year forklift experience, forklift certification, and comfort using ERP systems and handheld scanners. English fluency is required; Spanish is a plus.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of forklift operation in a warehouse or industrial setting.
• Experience with IT asset disposition (ITAD) or electronics recycling preferred.
• Strong safety record and ability to follow SOPs.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts to move, load, and unload IT assets and materials.
• Perform pre-operational checks and routine forklift maintenance.
• Support cycle counting and inventory management using ERP systems and scanners.
• Enforce safety protocols and participate in Kaizen/5S improvements.
• Ensure material handling meets quality standards and customer specs.

Skills

Forklift operation

Inventory accuracy

5S / Lean principles

Reading shipping docs

English fluency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Forklift certification

OSHA safety training (preferred)

Tools

ERP systems

Handheld scanners

Barcode scanning

Job description

Overview

Sprout is a growing Green company, we're a team on a mission to make a real difference in the world by upcycling leading technology, recycling unusable electronics and helping our customers achieve their sustainability goals. We believe in One Sprout, where teamwork and mutual support are paramount, driving us to win and lose together. Our commitment to Deliver Excellence means surpassing expectations every day for both internal and external customers. Integrity Matters at Sprout, with zero tolerance for dishonesty and a steadfast dedication to doing the right thing. We offer clear paths for career growth, cross-training opportunities, and a supportive community where hard work, flexibility, and respect are valued. Join us and be proud of the impact you make as part of a team dedicated to environmental sustainability.

The Forklift Driver at Sprout is responsible for the safe operation of forklifts and other material handling equipment to move, load, and unload materials within the facility. This role is essential for maintaining operational efficiency by ensuring that equipment and materials are handled securely and efficiently, while adhering to safety, quality, and environmental standards. The Forklift Driver plays a crucial role in supporting the company’s IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) operations by facilitating the seamless flow of materials in compliance with Lean, 5S, and Kaizen principles, while contributing to Sprout’s commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities:

Material Handling & Equipment Operation:

• Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment to move, load, and unload IT assets and other materials within the facility.
• Ensure that materials are transported safely and in compliance with all safety and operational protocols.
• Perform pre-operational checks and routine maintenance of the forklift to ensure it is in safe working condition.
• Organize materials in accordance with 5S principles, keeping the work area clean and free of hazards.

Inventory Management Support:

• Assist in cycle counting and inventory management by accurately moving and storing materials in designated areas.
• Use handheld scanners or ERP systems to update material movements and inventory locations.
• Verify accuracy of shipments and deliveries by comparing items to bills of lading and customer orders.

Safety & Compliance:

• Follow all safety protocols, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and safe forklift operation techniques.
• Conduct regular safety checks of the working area to ensure compliance with OSHA, R2v3, and ISO 45001 safety standards.
• Report any safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, or accidents to the Supervisor immediately.
• Participate in regular safety training and drills to stay up-to-date with best practices and company policies.

Quality Control:

• Inspect materials for damage during movement or transport and report any issues to the appropriate department.
• Ensure materials are handled in accordance with company quality standards and customer specifications.
• Assist in maintaining product integrity through careful and accurate handling.

Continuous Improvement:

• Actively participate in Kaizen events and Lean initiatives to improve processes related to material handling and workflow efficiency.
• Suggest and implement process improvements to reduce waste, enhance safety, and improve overall operational efficiency.
• Assist in organizing workstations, materials, and inventory according to 5S principles (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain).

Qualifications

Experience:

• 1+ years of experience operating forklifts in a warehouse or industrial environment.
• Experience with IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) or electronics recycling preferred but not required.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Knowledge of forklift operations, including safety protocols and daily maintenance checks.
• Basic understanding of inventory systems, including barcoding and scanning systems.
• Familiarity with 5S and Lean methodologies in warehouse operations is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in basic arithmetic and able to read and understand shipping and inventory documents.
• Fluency in English is required; Spanish language proficiency is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for an entire 8-hour shift.
• Willingness to work in a non-climate-controlled warehouse.
• Willingness to work overtime and weekends if needed.

Certifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Forklift certification required.
• OSHA safety training certification (preferred).

EEO – Equal Employment Opportunity

The Company is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, sex, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, gender, ethnicity, religion, national origin, ancestry, nationality, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or on any other basis prohibited by law (except where an attribute is a bona fide occupational qualification)