We are seeking a safety-conscious and skilled Versa-Lift Operator to join our team in Sparks, Nevada, focusing on data-center equipment logistics. Your primary duties involve utilizing high-capacity Versa-Lifts equipped with booms to transport, position, and load expensive industrial machinery. While a specialized rigging team manages the rigging process, you will be responsible for maneuvering the equipment in strict accordance with established lift plans and under the guidance of a designated lift director.
Primary Duties
- Maneuver high-capacity Versa-Lifts (25/35 and 40/60 class) and standard forklifts through confined industrial areas with precision.
- Utilize boom attachments and extendable counterweight chassis while strictly adhering to manufacturer-provided load charts.
- Ensure the secure transport of heavy, top-heavy, and high-value assets by maintaining smooth operation and avoiding abrupt movements or traveling with elevated loads.
- Execute all lifting tasks in alignment with the approved lift plan, following the specific instructions of the lift director and signal person.
- Verify that load weight, center of gravity, and equipment settings remain within safe rated capacities prior to initiating any lift.
- Position machinery exactly as instructed by the lift director while maintaining a safe distance from the rigging crew.
- Document thorough pre-shift inspections of all equipment components, including hydraulics, tires, and safety systems, to ensure operational readiness.
- Assess travel routes, floor stability, and overhead clearance to help maintain a safe working environment for the entire team.
- Enforce strict exclusion zones to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the path of suspended loads.
- Halt operations immediately if conditions become hazardous or deviate from the established lift plan.
- Maintain constant radio and visual communication with the lift director and signal person to ensure seamless coordination.
- Contribute to safety briefings and job hazard analyses to help minimize risks during daily operations.
- Communicate any equipment malfunctions, incidents, or near-misses to management without delay.
- Assist with general warehouse tasks, including receiving, shipping, and loading, to support overall facility efficiency.
- Maintain a tidy and organized workspace to help promote a culture of safety and productivity.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of 1 year of recent, documented experience operating Versa-Lifts or similar high-capacity forklifts (20,000 lbs+) in construction or industrial settings.
- Comprehensive understanding of load centers, center of gravity, and equipment capacity charts.
- Demonstrated history of safely managing large, top-heavy, or expensive industrial equipment.
- Proficiency in following standard radio protocols and hand signals during complex lifts.
- Physical ability to lift 50 lbs, mount and dismount heavy machinery, and work in diverse industrial environments.
- Successful completion of a background check for site access.
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with Versa-Lift 25/35 or 40/60 series models.
- Prior work involving boom or hoist equipment attachments.
- Background in power-generation, data-center, or industrial installation projects.
Operational Readiness Requirements
Previous experience is a prerequisite, but all operators must undergo site‑specific validation before working independently. To be cleared for solo operation, you must:
- Obtain Versa‑Lift certification through the manufacturer, rental provider, or our qualified contractor.
- Pass the mandatory powered industrial truck evaluation as required by OSHA (29 CFR 1910.178).
- Complete all necessary site‑specific training and lift plan orientation.
- Successfully perform supervised lifts until you are formally approved for independent work.