Forklift Operator

Carver Companies; Village of Ravena (NY); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Carver Companies in New York's salt packaging facility is seeking a Forklift Operator to safely move raw materials and finished goods. You will operate forklifts and related equipment to support production, packaging, and shipping, while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.

Candidates should have at least a year of forklift experience, a valid certification or ability to obtain one, and a strong safety mindset. This role requires physical work, overtime and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum 1 year forklift operation experience.
• Ability to obtain forklift certification.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment to transport raw materials, finished goods, and packaging supplies.
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, and railcars safely and efficiently.
• Stage materials for production and packaging lines to maintain workflow.
• Move finished products to storage and prepare shipments as required.
• Perform pre- and post-operation inspections of forklifts and report issues.
• Maintain accurate inventory movement and proper product handling.
• Follow company policies, OSHA regulations, and PPE procedures.
• Assist with general warehouse and plant duties, including cleanup.
• Support production teams to ensure efficient operations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to meet goals.

Skills

Safety-focused

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift

Inventory systems

Job description

The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating material handling equipment to support production, packaging, and shipping activities within a salt packaging facility. This role ensures the timely movement of raw materials and finished products while maintaining safety, accuracy, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, detail-oriented, and experienced in a fast-paced industrial or manufacturing environment.

• Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment to transport raw materials, finished goods, and packaging supplies throughout the facility.
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, and railcars in a safe and efficient manner.
• Stage materials for production and packaging lines to maintain continuous workflow.
• Move finished products to storage areas and prepare shipments according to operational requirements.
• Perform pre- and post-operation inspections of forklifts and report any mechanical or safety concerns.
• Maintain accurate inventory movement and ensure proper product handling to prevent damage.
• Follow all company policies, OSHA regulations, and safety procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Assist with general warehouse and plant duties, including cleanup and organization of materials.
• Support production teams as needed to ensure efficient plant operations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support operational goals.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience operating forklifts in a manufacturing, warehouse, or industrial environment.
• Valid forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.
• Strong understanding of safe material handling practices.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions with attention to detail.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to work effectively as part of a team.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience in a manufacturing or packaging facility.
• Experience handling bulk materials or palletized goods.
• Familiarity with inventory systems or warehouse processes.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and operate equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Ability to work in a physically active environment, including walking and bending.
• Required use of PPE (hard hat, safety vest, steel‑toe boots) in operational areas.
• Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to dust, noise, salt, and varying temperatures.
• Fast-paced, team-oriented environment with frequent interaction among production staff.
• Regular overtime, weekend, or shift work may be required based on operational needs.