Industrial Forklift Operator

Interfor; Soperton (GA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Group Benefit Programs

HSA Medical Plan

401(k) Matching Plan

Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Holidays

Employee Assistance Program

Training & Development Opportunities

Instant access to wages ahead of pay

Quarterly performance-based bonus

Job summary

Interfor is seeking an Industrial Forklift Operator in Swainsboro, Georgia. You will operate industrial forklifts to move, load, and organize lumber across the mill, following OSHA safety standards and company policies.

The role emphasizes safe handling, teamwork, and ongoing adherence to maintenance and housekeeping standards to support efficient production. A high school diploma and forklift certification or ability to obtain it are preferred.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Forklift certification or the ability to obtain certification.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to respond quickly and follow procedures in emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Operate industrial forklifts safely and efficiently following safety standards and procedures.
• Transport, stage, and store lumber throughout the mill to maintain flow.
• Assist with loading/unloading and ensure stacks are secure and stable.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance tasks as required.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and support shift continuity.

Skills

Forklift certification

Strong communication

Emergency response

Education

High School Diploma/Equivalent

Job description

Industrial Forklift Operator, Swainsboro, Georgia

At Interfor, we're more than a lumber company - we're helping build the homes, businesses, schools, and communities that people rely on every day. As anIndustrial Forklift Operatorin Swainsboro, Georgia, you'll play an important role in the safe and efficient movement of lumber products throughout our manufacturing operation. Working as part of a dedicated operations team, you'll operate industrial-sized forklifts to move, load, and organize products throughout the mill.

Thepay range for this position is up to$22.41 per hour based on skill and experience.

What You’ll Do

• Operate forklifts safely and efficiently in accordance with all Interfor and OSHA safety standards, policies, and job safety analysis procedures.
• Safely transport, stage, and store lumber throughout the planer mill, including carrying banded packs of lumber to the appropriate storage sheds, maintaining lumber flow to the planer, and moving missorts to re-entry.
• Ensure continuous lumber availability for processing by correctly setting up and positioning lumber units on infeed systems and prioritizing lumber lengths as required.
• Assist with unloading dry kilns and storing lumber in designated areas while ensuring all units and stacks remain stable and secure.
• Help maintain lumber quality by repairing damaged, incomplete, or broken packs and addressing spills or housekeeping issues promptly.
• Move and manage trim blocks, stick racks, and other material handling inventories, ensuring all stored units are properly secured and banded.
• Monitor forklift gauges and equipment performance to identify operating issues and communicate concerns immediately through verbal communication, checklists, and work orders.
• Complete daily equipment inspections, checklists, and preventive maintenance documentation accurately and timely.
• Perform routine forklift maintenance, including greasing, servicing, cleaning with a pressure washer, and assisting with tire changes and other preventive maintenance tasks.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area by picking up loose boards, removing debris, emptying trash collection sites, and supporting overall housekeeping efforts throughout the planer mill.
• Support shift continuity by ensuring work areas and equipment are prepared for the next shift and remaining beyond scheduled hours when necessary to support operations.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety, protecting employees, equipment, and mill property at all times.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by supervisors or mill management.
• Physical Requirements: Walking, standing, sitting, climbing stairs, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.

What You Offer

• High School Diploma/Equivalent preferred.
• Forklift certification or the ability to obtain certification through a standard training course.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with team members and supervisors.
• Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations, following established procedures.

What We Offer

• Group Benefit Programs (Employee Medical, Dental, Vision Plans
• HSA Medical Plan
• 401(k) Matching Plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Training & Development Opportunities
• Instant access to your wages ahead of payday
• Quarterly performance-based bonus opportunity

Who We Are

Interfor is one of the largest forest products companies in the world and we’re growing in exciting directions. With our industry leading training programs and track record of promoting from within, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to #StartHereGoFar.

We appreciate the interest of all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All applicants offered a position must successfully complete a pre-employment drug test and background check. Interfor is an Equal Opportunity Employer building a capable, committed, diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual identity, gender, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.