Forklift Operator: Dock Mentor & Champion

Forward Air Corp.; Des Plaines (IL); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a skilled Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, and move freight in a multimodal terminal environment. The role requires certification and experience with MHE, accurate scanning, and attention to safety procedures.

You will work either Sunday-Thursday or Tuesday-Saturday shifts, handling dock operations, documenting cargo, and supporting top performance in a fast-paced warehouse setting. Physical stamina and dependable attendance are essential.

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing, to understand safety and operational instructions.
• Must have valid forklift certification/licensure or ability to obtain before operating equipment.
• 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience required.
• Able to recognize numbers, labels, barcodes, and freight markings accurately and perform basic arithmetic to verify counts, quantities and weights.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks and other MHE.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors and designated areas.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
• Assist drivers with loading/unloading following dock and safety procedures.
• Label, scan, and track freight to ensure accuracy and documentation integrity.
• Identify damaged freight and report issues or unsafe conditions to supervisors.

Skills

English communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Pallet jacks

Handheld scanners

MHE knowledge

Job description

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a skilled Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, and move freight in a multimodal terminal environment. The role requires certification and experience with MHE, accurate scanning, and attention to safety procedures.

You will work either Sunday-Thursday or Tuesday-Saturday shifts, handling dock operations, documenting cargo, and supporting top performance in a fast-paced warehouse setting. Physical stamina and dependable attendance are essential.