Load Builder/Forklift Operator

Colonial Group; Kingston (WA); On-site; USD 22,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Group in Kingston, WA is seeking a Load Builder/Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, and organize building materials for delivery to customer sites. The role emphasizes accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to safety standards in a fast-paced yard environment.

You will build balanced loads, verify labeling, operate forklifts and hand trucks, and support daily yard operations. The ideal candidate will have a HS diploma or GED, forklift certification, and a commitment to safety,

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is preferred.
• At least 3 months of lumber yard/warehouse experience preferred.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.
• Ability to read work orders, shipping documents, and material labels.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Able to work independently and in a team.
• Commitment to workplace safety and safe material-handling practices.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload building materials safely and efficiently.
• Build delivery loads with correct weight distribution and configuration.
• Secure loads with strapping, bracing, padding to prevent movement.
• Review work orders and identify materials to move or load.
• Transport materials within yard using forklifts and hand trucks.
• Label and inventory materials accurately.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Follow all safety policies and participate in training.
• Suggest safety or process improvements when appropriate.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Safety minded

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift certification

Job description

Load Builder/Forklift Operator

Location: Kingston, WA Truss

We are seeking a reliable and safety-minded Load Builder to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for safely loading, unloading, and organizing building materials while preparing delivery loads for customer job sites. The ideal candidate takes pride in accuracy, works efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and is committed to maintaining the highest safety standards.

As a Load Builder, you play a critical role in ensuring customers receive the right materials in a safe and timely manner by building balanced, secure loads and supporting daily yard operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Load and unload building materials from trucks, pallets, and customer vehicles safely and efficiently.
• Build customer delivery loads by determining the appropriate weight distribution, product placement, and load configuration to ensure safe transportation.
• Secure loads with strapping, bracing, padding, or other materials to prevent shifting or damage during transit.
• Review work orders and customer requests to identify materials that need to be moved, staged, or loaded.
• Transport materials throughout the yard or facility using forklifts, hand trucks, electric dollies, or other material-handling equipment.
• Open containers, units, slings, and loads using appropriate hand tools and equipment.
• Label, tag, or mark materials to ensure accurate identification and inventory control.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work environment.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and best practices to protect team members and customers.
• Participate in safety meetings and training programs as required.
• Recommend improvements to safety procedures and operational efficiency when appropriate.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) months of experience in a lumber yard, warehouse, manufacturing, distribution, or similar environment preferred.
• Forklift certification required or the ability to obtain certification as required by company policy.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, shipping documents, and material labels.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety and safe material-handling practices.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 80 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, reach, push, pull, climb, and kneel throughout the workday.
• Ability to safely operate material-handling equipment and tools.
• Capable of working in a physically demanding environment while maintaining productivity and safety standards.

Work Environment

• Work is performed primarily in a lumber yard, warehouse, or production environment.
• Regular exposure to varying weather conditions and temperature fluctuations.
• Frequent exposure to moving equipment, mechanical parts, dust, and noise.
• May work around industrial machinery and other equipment requiring adherence to strict safety protocols.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required based on job duties and work location.

Why Join Our Team?

At our company, you'll be part of a hardworking team dedicated to delivering quality products and exceptional service. We offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for career growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on our daily operations. If you're dependable, safety-focused, and enjoy working in a hands-on environment, we'd love to hear from you.