FT Dockworker - Des Moines, IA

20 Saia Motor Freight Line LLC; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

20 Saia Motor Freight Line LLC is hiring for a dock/Forklift operator in Des Moines, IA. You will load and unload freight using forklifts and pallet jacks, verify shipments, and maintain secure loads for safe transportation. Expect adherence to DOT rules, safety protocols, and accurate documentation across shifts.

The role requires basic English literacy, HS diploma or GED, and eligibility to work in the United States. Prior forklift certification or hazmat training is preferred.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Read, write, communicate and comprehend English to perform tasks and complete shipping documents.

Responsibilities

• Loads and unloads trailers using forklifts, pallet jacks and other equipment, complying with regulations.
• Operates dock tools to secure freight and maintain straps, bars and other securing devices.
• Loads, recoups, rewraps and stacks freight as needed.
• Verifies shipments by reading labels and securing freight for loading/unloading.
• Follows bill and quality control procedures for timely, cost-efficient shipments.
• Logs, reports and processes shortages and damages.
• Maintains a safe and clean work environment.

Skills

English language

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift

Pallet Jack

Dock tools

Hazmat training

Forklift certification

Job description

Position Summary

Sorts and handles freight in and out of over-the-road equipment, containers, city trailers, and straight trucks. Operates forklifts and pallet jacks to load and unload freight.

Major Tasks and Responsibilities

• Loads and unloads trailers using forklifts, pallet jacks, and other equipment in compliance with state, federal, and Department of Transportation regulations.
• Operates dock tools to ensure freight is loaded securely and properly, including maintaining straps, bars, air bags, cardboard, and dunnage.
• Loads, recoups, rewraps, and stacks freight as needed.
• Verifies shipments by reading labels and correctly securing freight for both loading and unloading trailers.
• Follows established bill and quality control procedures to ensure timely, claims-free, and cost-efficient shipments.
• Logs, reports, and processes any shortages and damages to freight.
• Promotes and maintains a safe and clean work environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Read, write, communicate and comprehend the English language in order to perform the various tasks of the job, including but not limited to: converse with co-workers and members of the general public; understand oral and written instructions as well as governmental regulations; respond to questions and inquiries from management and government representatives; and accurately complete various shipping documents, reports and records required of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Warehouse, freight, dock, forklift, or pallet jack experience.
• Forklift certification or hazmat training.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in verifying shipments.

Work Conditions and Physical Demands

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoops, and lift throughout the shift.
• Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying freight up to 100 pounds; team lift or mechanical assistance required for heavier items.
• Regular use of hands and arms for handling freight, operating pallet jacks, and securing loads.
• Ability to climb on and off forklifts, trailers, and dock platforms safely.
• Adequate vision and hearing (with or without correction) to operate equipment, read labels, and follow safety signals.
• Ability to work in varying temperatures and weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow due to dock and yard exposure.
• Ability to work varying schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays based on operational demands.

Pay Rate: $25.25 - $28.85 per hour, based on experience

Benefits

At Saia, your success is our success! That's why we work hard to provide you with what you need to build an awesome career. We are committed to rewarding superior employee performance so that when you work hard, your achievements won't go unnoticed. Make Your Move At Saia, our people are the reason we've been successful for over a century in the industry. Together, we've created a positive culture that’s driven by our core values - like dignity and respect, a customer-first approach, safety and more. With hundreds of terminals across the country and growing, we're always looking for more collaborative and motivated individuals to join our team. So, if you're ready to put your career on a solid path, let’s go further.

Saia is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

With headquarters in Georgia, Saia LTL Freight operates across the U.S. and employs thousands of people nationwide. Through our network of partners, we serve the balance of the U.S. including Alaska and Hawaii, plus Puerto Rico, Canada and Mexico. Through our three operating service groups-Saia LTL, LinkEx, and Saia Logistics Services-we provide complete transportation and logistics solutions. As a company, Saia is dedicated to providing every employee the opportunity and environment to continue to grow and contribute, individually and as part of a team.