Freight Handler & Forklift Operator: Dock Expert

Forward Air Corporation; Arizona; On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corporation is seeking a qualified Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, stage, and move freight in a multimodal terminal or warehouse environment. You will use sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, ensure accurate documentation, and support dock productivity.

The role requires 3+ years of dock experience, a valid forklift certification, and strong English communication. Compensation is $18.62 per hour with a fixed early-morning schedule, and site attendance is essential.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required.
• Valid forklift certification/licensure (or ability to obtain before operating equipment) required.
• 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience required.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing, to understand safety and operational instructions, work assignments, and freight documentation.
• Ability to recognize numbers, labels, barcodes, and freight markings accurately, and to perform basic arithmetic to verify freight counts, quantities, and weights.
• Willingness and ability to learn and use basic computer systems, handheld scanners, and freight-tracking devices.
• Ability to safely operate MHE such as pallet jacks, dollies, hand trucks, order pickers, pallet riders, conveyors, dock plates, dock levelers, sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks (with company-assisted certification/training).
• Regular and predictable attendance is required.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using forklifts and other MHE, following safety procedures.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors, trailers, and warehouse areas.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
• Assist drivers with loading and unloading activities according to procedures.
• Label, scan, and track freight to ensure accuracy and documentation integrity.
• Identify damaged freight and report issues or safety concerns promptly.
• Maintain a clean, safe dock environment and organized work areas.
• Learn equipment operation, safety protocols, and job procedures.
• Support dock productivity and overall operational goals.
• Work scheduled hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Lead the coordination of tasks when required and serve as SME on dock operations.

Skills

Forklift operation

English communication

Safety awareness

Attendance reliability

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Pallet jacks

Order pickers

Handheld scanners

Freight-tracking devices

Job description

Forward Air Corporation is seeking a qualified Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, stage, and move freight in a multimodal terminal or warehouse environment. You will use sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, ensure accurate documentation, and support dock productivity.

The role requires 3+ years of dock experience, a valid forklift certification, and strong English communication. Compensation is $18.62 per hour with a fixed early-morning schedule, and site attendance is essential.