Forklift Operator Trainee

Texas Pipe And Supply Company; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Pipe And Supply Company in Houston, TX is seeking an entry-level Forklift Operator Trainee to learn safe forklift operation and support pipe yard activities.

You will receive hands-on training in receiving, organizing, handling, and shipping materials with a goal of advancing to a full Forklift Operator role after completion.

This 40-hour weekly training program starts with 7:00 AM–5:00 PM sessions; wear PPE and pass a background check and drug screen to qualify.

Qualifications

• Prior forklift experience preferred (pipe yard or warehouse environment a plus).
• Exposure to industrial equipment or material handling preferred.
• Ability to learn heavy equipment operation (including forklifts up to 25K lbs).
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to safety at all times.
• Must be able to pass background check and drug screening.
• Ability to work a minimum of 40 hours per week.
• Forklift certification preferred or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Assist with shipping and receiving, including unloading trucks and verifying materials.
• Learn to operate forklifts safely under supervision.
• Assist in sorting, staging, and organizing pipe and materials (carbon and stainless steel).
• Learn proper storage procedures in racks, shelves, and yard areas.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment (sweeping, organizing, pallet upkeep).
• Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE at all times.
• Assist team members in ensuring accurate and timely material handling.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor or manager.

Skills

Forklift experience

Industrial equipment exposure

Heavy equipment operation 25K lbs

Safety mindset

Teamwork

Background check

Drug screening

40 hours/week

Willingness to learn

Job description

Job Details

Level: Entry

Job Location: Houston, TX 77051

Salary Range: $18.00 - $20.00

JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking a Forklift Operator Trainee to learn and develop the skills required to safely and efficiently operate industrial forklifts and support pipe yard operations. This role will involve hands‑on training in receiving, organizing, handling, and shipping materials, with the goal of transitioning into a full Forklift Operator position upon successful completion of training.

The trainee will work under supervision while gaining experience in warehouse and pipe yard operations, including inventory handling, material movement, and safe equipment operation.

TRAINING SCHEDULE:

• Initial training schedule:7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Final shift assignment will be determined upon successful completion of training

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Prior forklift experience preferred (pipe yard or warehouse environment a plus)
• Exposure to industrial equipment or material handling preferred
• Ability to learn heavy equipment operation (including forklifts up to 25K lbs)
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to safety at all times
• Must be able to pass background check and drug screening
• Ability to work a minimum of 40 hours per week
• Forklift certification preferred or willingness to obtain

RESPONSIBILITIES (TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT):

• Assist with shipping and receiving, including unloading trucks and verifying materials
• Learn to operate forklifts safely under supervision
• Assist in sorting, staging, and organizing pipe and materials (carbon and stainless steel)
• Learn proper storage procedures in racks, shelves, and yard areas
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment (sweeping, organizing, pallet upkeep)
• Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE at all times
• Assist team members in ensuring accurate and timely material handling
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor or manager

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Regular use of hands, arms, and ability to talk/hear
• Frequent standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling
• Ability to lift 10–50 lbs regularly
• Occasionally lift up to 100 lbs with proper equipment
• Ability to sit, climb, and maintain balance as neededVision requirements include close/distance vision, depth perception, color vision, and ability to adjust focus

CAREER PATH:

Upon successful completion of the training program and demonstrated competency, the trainee will transition into a full Forklift Operator role.