Industrial Heavy Forklift Operator- Rigging Experience

Givens Incorporated; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly pay

Overtime opportunities

Full-time employment

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Givens Incorporated in Chesapeake, VA is seeking an experienced Industrial Heavy Forklift Operator with rigging know-how for our outdoor yard operations. The role involves loading/unloading oversized freight, securing cargo, and working with chains, binders, and straps to ensure safe transport.

The ideal candidate has at least 3 years operating heavy-capacity forklifts, experience with large loads, and a proactive safety mindset.

Qualifications

• Three years minimum experience operating heavy-capacity forklifts.
• Experience handling oversized or industrial freight preferred.
• Rigging and load-securing experience preferred.
• Familiarity with chains, binders, straps, and cargo-securing equipment.
• Ability to use tape measures, hand tools, and power tools.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy-capacity forklifts to move, load, and position oversized freight.
• Load and unload heavy equipment from shipping containers and transport equipment.
• Secure cargo to flat racks and open-top containers for export.
• Use chains, binders, straps, and other equipment to secure freight.
• Assist with rigging and positioning large or irregularly shaped loads.
• Operate basic hand and power tools (saws, nail guns).
• Inspect freight and equipment for safe handling and placement.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas and follow safety procedures.
• Work independently and with team members to complete daily tasks.

Skills

Heavy forklift operation

Rigging experience

Safety-conscious

Outdoor work

Effective communication

Tools

Chains and binders

Cargo straps

Tape measures

Power tools

Job description

Industrial Heavy Forklift Operator- Rigging Experience

Chesapeake, VA

Full Time $18.00 - $21.00 based on experience w/OT

About Givens

Since 1957, Givens has provided warehousing, transportation, logistics, packing, crating, and distribution services. Our continued growth creates opportunities for experienced employees who take pride in their work and value safety, teamwork, and reliability.

Job Description

Givens is hiring an experienced Heavy Forklift Operator to join our Packing and Crating division in Chesapeake, VA. This is a hands‑on position working in an outdoor industrial yard, handling oversized freight, loading and unloading shipping containers, and securing equipment for transportation.

We are looking for someone who has experience operating heavy‑capacity forklifts, understands safe material handling practices, and is comfortable working with large, heavy loads. Previous rigging experience is a plus.

Job Responsibilities

• Operate heavy-capacity industrial forklifts to safely move, load, and position oversized freight.
• Load and unload heavy equipment and materials from shipping containers and other transportation equipment.
• Secure cargo to flat racks and inside open-top containers for export.
• Use chains, binders, straps, and other equipment to secure freight.
• Assist with rigging and positioning large or irregularly shaped loads.
• Operate basic hand and power tools, including saws and nail guns.
• Inspect freight and equipment for safe handling and proper placement.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas.
• Follow safety procedures and work instructions.
• Work independently and alongside other team members to complete daily assignments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating heavy-capacity forklifts required.
• Experience handling oversized, heavy, or industrial freight.
• Rigging and load-securing experience preferred.
• Familiarity with chains, binders, straps, and other cargo‑securing equipment.
• Ability to use tape measures, hand tools, and power tools.
• Strong attention to safety and detail.
• Ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively with coworkers.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Dependable, safety-conscious, and able to work in a physically active environment.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience.
• Overtime opportunities.
• Full-time employment.
• Opportunities to learn new skills and grow within the company.