General Utility & Forklift Operator

South-Coast-Lumbe; Grants Pass (OR); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

South Coast Lumber in Merlin, OR is seeking a dependable Forklift Operator to join our Log Yard team. This outdoor, weather-driven role requires proven forklift experience and a safety-first mindset to move lumber, plywood, and LVL products efficiently.

You will perform daily equipment inspections, assist with inventory staging, and work with drivers and supervisors to ensure smooth operations. Overtime may be required during peak periods.

Qualifications

• Prior forklift operation experience required.
• Log yard, mill, or industrial setting preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license required.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate forklifts and related equipment to unload, reload, and stage lumber, plywood, LVL products.
• Assist with organization and staging of inventory to maintain efficient material flow.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and report mechanical issues.
• Follow all safety procedures, PPE use, and hazard awareness.
• Communicate effectively with team members, drivers and supervisors for smooth operations.
• Support general tasks during high-volume periods.
• Adapt to changing priorities and respond to production needs in a timely manner.

Job description

Location: Merlin, OR
Department: Log Yard
Job Type: Full-Time
Shift: Days to train, will eventually become a night shift | Monday-Friday | Overtime as needed

South Coast Lumber is seeking a dependable and experienced Forklift Operator to join our hardworking team at our Merlin Reload Facility. This hands-on utility position plays a key role in supporting daily operations by safely operating forklifts and goats to transport, sort, and organize wood materials and products. The ideal candidate will bring proven forklift experience, a solid work ethic, and a safety-first mindset while working in a dynamic outdoor environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Safely operate gas and diesel forklifts and other material-handling equipment to unload, reload, and warehouse lumber, plywood, and LVL products onto flatbed trucks, box vans, boxcars, and center beam rail cars.

Assist with the organization and staging of product inventory to maintain efficiency and accurate flow of materials.

Perform daily equipment inspections, report mechanical issues, and assist with light maintenance or cleanup as needed.

Follow all safety procedures and company guidelines, including PPE use and hazard awareness.

Communicate effectively with fellow team members, truck drivers, and supervisors to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Support general tasks, including cleanup and assisting others during high-volume periods.

Adapt to changing priorities and respond to production needs in a timely and reliable manner.

Qualifications & Experience:

Prior forklift operation experience required; log yard, mill, or industrial setting preferred.

Understanding of basic wood products handling procedures.

Familiarity with safety standards related to forklift use and warehouse operations.

Ability to work in outdoor environments and handle physically demanding tasks.

Dependable, team-oriented, and willing to support various yard functions as needed.

Valid driver's license required.

Physical Requirements:

Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions, including rain, wind, and heat.

Requires standing, lifting, bending, and operating equipment for extended periods.

Must be flexible to work overtime when necessary.

Why Join Us?

Competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package to support your financial and personal well-being.

Career development opportunities in a respected company with deep community roots.

Join a team committed to teamwork, safety, and operational excellence, where your hard work is recognized and valued.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.