Heavy Equipment Operator - Chicago, IL

Watco; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 33,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Forbes-recognized culture

Competitive compensation and benefits

Paid on-the-job training with peer

Job summary

Watco in Chicago is seeking a Forklift Operator/General Labor candidate to support dock operations, load/unload materials, and maintain clean, organized dock areas. The role emphasizes safe forklift handling, teamwork and reliability, with opportunities for advancement within Watco’s rail and logistics network.

Hourly pay ranges from $23.62 to $33.75, dependent on experience, with a Monday–Friday schedule, 7:00 am–3:30 pm and potential overtime as business needs dictate.

Qualifications

• 3 years of experience operating forklifts, with safe load handling and maneuvering in confined spaces preferred
• Basic mechanical skills with equipment inspection, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance preferred
• Familiarity with warehouse management systems or handheld scanners preferred

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts 5k-8k capacity
• Perform inspections of equipment prior to use and during use as needed
• Demonstrate performance toward operational excellence
• Communicate with stakeholders throughout shift
• Wear Watco and OSHA mandated PPE
• Work as part of a team and take on additional duties as needed
• Demonstrate knowledge of safety programs

Skills

Forklift operation

Teamwork

Safety compliance

Equipment inspection

WMS/Handheld scanners

Tools

WMS

Handheld scanners

Job description

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco.

Here’s What You Can Expect From Watco

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco’s Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

Hourly Pay Rate: $23.62 - $33.75 (dependent on years of experience)

Schedule: M-F, 7:00 to 3:30pm

Seeking candidates with experience operating 5,000 to 8,000 lb. capacity forklifts. Responsibilities include dock work, loading and unloading materials, maintaining clean and organized dock areas, and performing general labor duties such as sweeping and other physical tasks. Heavy equipment experience is a plus.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts 5k-8k capacity
• Perform inspections of equipment being utilized prior to use and during use as needed
• Demonstrate performance toward operational excellence
• Communicates with operational stake holders throughout shift
• Wearing all Watco and OSHA mandated personal protective equipment
• Able to work with a team, take direction and follow work rules, as well as take on additional job responsibilities as needed
• Demonstrate knowledge of company safety programs

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be able to pass and/or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position and location. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately
• 3 years of experience working with or around forklifts, with demonstrated skill in safe load handling, stacking, and maneuvering in confined spaces preferred
• Basic mechanical skills with knowledge of equipment inspection, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance preferred
• Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS) or handheld scanners preferred
• Maintain regular, dependable attendance
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including day and night shifts, with availability for overtime, weekends, and holidays as required by business needs
• Forklift Operator certification preferred

Knowledge of weight limits, load distribution, and material storage protocols

Education

Must be 18years of age or older