Load Builder/Forklift Operator

Colonial Group; Soldotna (AK); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Group is seeking a Load Builder/Forklift Operator in Soldotna, AK to safely load and unload materials and prepare delivery loads for customer sites.

You'll build balanced, secure loads, operate forklifts and hand trucks, and keep the yard organized while following all safety policies and procedures. This role rewards reliability, accuracy, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Forklift certification required or the ability to obtain.
• 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.

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.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Safety-minded

Reading orders

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift certification

Job description

Load Builder/Forklift Operator

Location: Soldotna, AK Yard

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.