Forklift Operator: Dock Freight Specialist (Mon-Fri 5am-9am)

Forward Air Corp.; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, and move freight in a multimodal terminal environment.

You will use sit-down/stand-up forklifts, reach trucks, and handheld scanners to ensure accurate documentation and efficient handling of cargo. The role requires 3+ years of dock/warehouse experience, OSHA compliance, and the ability to work a schedule that may include early mornings, nights, weekends, and overtime onsite in Missouri.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks, along with other appropriate MHE, such as pallet jacks, carts, and dollies, and approved physical lifting techniques.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors, trailers, and designated warehouse areas in accordance with operating procedures.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
• Assist drivers with loading and unloading activities following dock and safety procedures.
• Label, scan, and track freight using handheld scanning devices and company systems to ensure accuracy and documentation integrity.
• Identify damaged freight and promptly report issues, unsafe conditions, or equipment concerns to supervisory personnel.
• Abide by all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and PPE standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized dock environment, including work areas, tools, and MHE.
• Perform tasks under appropriate supervision while learning equipment operation, safety protocols, and job procedures (for developing roles).
• Support dock productivity, workflow efficiency, and overall operational goals.
• Work assigned schedules, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime based on business needs.
• Safely and accurately handle oversized, high‑value, or complex freight.
• Assist with dock coordination, workflow management, and problem resolution.
• Prioritize freight and coordinate task assignments, sometimes acting in a lead capacity (without direct supervisory responsibility).
• Serve as a subject‑matter expert on dock operations, equipment, and procedures.
• Train, mentor, and support the development of other Material Handlers.
• All other duties as assigned to meet evolving business needs.

Skills

English communication

Safety awareness

Regular attendance

Basic arithmetic

Willingness to learn MHE systems

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Pallet jacks

Dollies/hand trucks

Reach trucks

Sit‑down forklifts

Forklift certification/training

Conveyors/dock plates/dock levelers

Handheld scanners

Job description

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, and move freight in a multimodal terminal environment.

You will use sit-down/stand-up forklifts, reach trucks, and handheld scanners to ensure accurate documentation and efficient handling of cargo. The role requires 3+ years of dock/warehouse experience, OSHA compliance, and the ability to work a schedule that may include early mornings, nights, weekends, and overtime onsite in Missouri.