General Utility & Forklift Operator

Socomi; Oregon (WI); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Benefits package

Career development

Job summary

South Coast Lumber in Merlin, Oregon is seeking a dependable forklift operator to join our team. This hands-on role safely operates forklifts and supports loading, unloading, and warehousing lumber products in an outdoor environment. Day shift initially with overtime as needed; training leads to night shift.

We value a strong work ethic, safety-first mindset, and ability to work with others in a dynamic yard setting. Valid driver’s license required; competitive pay and benefits offered.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate gas and diesel forklifts and other material-handling equipment to unload, reload, and warehouse lumber 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.

Skills

Forklift operation

Outdoor work

Safety mindset

Physical stamina

Teamwork

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.