Forklift Operator (3rd shift)

Colonial Group; Champaign (IL); Hybrid; USD 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Group is seeking a Forklift Operator for our Champaign, IL warehouse. The role requires operating sit-down and stand-up forklifts and EPJs to support daily order fulfillment and inventory control, with an emphasis on safety and accuracy on a 3rd shift from 10:00 pm to 6:30 am.

The position also involves loading, unloading, selecting products, staging for shipment, and contributing to a compliant, clean work environment in line with OSHA and company standards.

Qualifications

• Six months of related warehouse or distribution experience.
• Basic math and reading skills.
• Ability to operate forklift and electric pallet jack.
• Safety-focused with PPE adherence.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate forklifts and EPJs to move, load, unload, pick, and consolidate products.
• Conduct manual case picking and other material handling tasks as needed.
• Replenish inventory and ensure correct product placement.
• Prepare products for shipment, including palletizing and wrapping.
• Assist with physical inventories and cycle counts.

Skills

Forklift operation

EPJ operation

MHE operation

Inventory management

Safety awareness

Attention to detail

Reading comprehension

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

WMS

Job description

Schedule: 3rd Shift Monday to Friday from 10:00 pm - 6:30 am

Compensation:

Base Hourly: $19.36 per hour
Shift Differential: $0.75 per hour
Incentive eligible: Yes

Position Overview

The Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of forklifts, electric pallet jacks (EPJ), and other material handling equipment (MHE) to ensure accurate order fulfillment and inventory management in support of daily warehouse operations. This role supports daily warehouse operations through loading, unloading, picking, and consolidation of products while upholding CJ Logistics America’s safety and quality standards.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities

Warehouse Operations

• Safely operate stand-up and/or sit-down forklifts to move, load, unload, pick, put away, and consolidate products.
• Conduct manual case picking and other material handling tasks as needed for order fulfillment. This may include utilizing other forms of MHE such as, but not limited to, an EPJ.
• Replenish inventory in appropriate storage bays and maintain accurate product placement.
• Prepare products for shipment, including palletizing, wrapping, and staging in accordance with shipping requirements.
• Assist with physical inventories and cycle counts as directed.

Quality & Compliance

• Perform visual inspections and quality checks on all products and outbound shipments to ensure accuracy and prevent damage.
• Conduct audits of outbound loads, resolving labeling discrepancies and addressing shortages.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment, adhering to all company policies, OSHA safety requirements, and PPE protocols.
• Participate in required safety and compliance training, including forklift and hazardous material handling.

Team Collaboration & Communication

• Coordinate with warehouse associates, leads, and supervisors to achieve daily productivity and service targets.
• Communicate product defects, inventory issues, or operational concerns promptly to management.
• Demonstrate positive teamwork and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.

Perform other related job duties as assigned or required.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent – or equivalent relevant experience.
• At least six (6) months of related warehouse or distribution experience.
• Basic math and reading skills.
• Ability to operate material handling equipment including, but not limited to a forklift and electric pallet jack.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform essential duties while adhering to safety and operational standards.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a high-volume, fast-paced warehouse or logistics environments.
• Prior experience with multiple types of forklifts and material handling equipment.
• Prior experience with warehouse management systems (WMS).
• Familiarity with electronic record-keeping and label printing systems.
• Experience collaborating with customer operations and inventory teams.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the physical ability to:

• Stand and/or walk for extended periods (up to 10 hours, depending on shift)
• Sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as needed
• Climb stairs, ladders, and/or scaffolds at various heights including ground-level and racking zones frequently
• Reach with hands and arms overhead and below waist level
• Lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds
• Occasionally lift heavier items with or without assistance
• Use fine motor skills/manual dexterity to operate equipment, tools, or keyboards
• Frequently use hands and fingers to handle, grasp, or control objects
• See clearly at close range and at distance, with peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
• Hear and understand verbal instructions, alarms, and equipment signals in a noisy environment

Work Environment

This position operates in a warehouse and distribution center environment. The employee is frequently exposed to:

• Varying temperatures, including but not limited to refrigerated or non-climate-controlled areas
• Loud noise levels, such as machinery, forklifts, and conveyor systems
• Dust, odors, and airborne particles
• Concrete flooring and moving mechanical equipment
• Frequent exposure to powered industrial vehicles and warehouse traffic

The employee is required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as steel-toed shoes, safety glasses, and high-visibility vests.

Location/Remote Eligibility

This role may be performed on-site only.

Schedule

Work hours may vary by shift assignment and may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime based on business needs.