Lower Plant Material Handler

Owens Corning; Colfax (NC); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Owens Corning in Colfax is seeking a Material Handler to supply raw materials to production, move inventory between areas, and maintain accurate records. The role includes forklift operation, basic preventive maintenance, and helping keep a clean, safe work environment.

Ideal candidates have 6–12 months of related experience, can read a tape measure, and communicate clearly both verbally and in writing. This position requires reliable attendance and teamwork.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Approximately 6–12 months of related experience.
• Ability to read a tape measure and use measuring devices.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Keep production lines stocked by monitoring inventory and replenishing materials.
• Operate RF scanning equipment and record accurate inventory transactions.
• Transport materials between departments and support safe housekeeping.
• Inspect forklifts and report safety or equipment issues promptly.
• Follow quality, inventory, shipping, and material handling procedures.

Skills

Tape measure reading

Communication skills

Independent work

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift operation

RF scanning

Job description

Primary Purpose

The primary purpose of this position is to provide raw materials to production lines, transport materials between departments, and maintain organization and inventory accuracy throughout the facility. Additional responsibilities include preparing finished goods for shipment, performing forklift inspections and basic preventive maintenance, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

Job Duties

• Ensure production lines remain stocked with the correct materials by regularly monitoring inventory levels and replenishing materials as needed.
• Operate RF scanning equipment and perform inventory transactions accurately.
• Maintain ongoing communication with production leads and supervisors to ensure material needs are addressed promptly.
• Transport raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods throughout the facility safely and efficiently.
• Prepare finished products for shipment, including wrapping, strapping, labeling, and pallet preparation.
• Maintain clear access to aisles, doorways, electrical panels, emergency equipment, and other designated areas.
• Support housekeeping efforts by removing trash, scrap, unused racks, banding, cardboard, pallets, and other debris from work areas.
• Inspect forklifts before use and immediately report equipment damage, safety concerns, or facility issues to supervision.
• Demonstrate professionalism and teamwork when interacting with coworkers, leaders, and support departments.
• Provide clear and effective verbal and written communication.
• Participate in safety initiatives and contribute ideas to improve workplace safety.
• Work independently with a sense of urgency while managing daily responsibilities.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of materials, part numbers, inventory locations, and production processes.
• Support production operations as needed to gain product knowledge and assist with operational requirements.
• Follow all quality, inventory control, shipping, and material handling procedures.
• Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.

Job Analysis

JOB KNOWLEDGE
Must possess a thorough knowledge of raw materials, inventory locations, and material flow processes throughout the facility. Previous forklift experience is preferred. Must successfully complete all required forklift training, written testing, and operational evaluations.

Job Specifications/Experience

A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent education is preferred. Approximately six to twelve months of experience is typically required to become proficient in all aspects of the position. Must be able to read a tape measure, operate measuring devices as required, and demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills.

INITIATIVE & INGENUITY

Work priorities are determined by production requirements, incoming material needs, and supervisory direction. The individual must be self-motivated, capable of working independently with limited supervision, and able to follow verbal and written instructions while understanding the impact of material flow on overall operations.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the direction of department supervisors and plant leadership. Coordinates activities with other material handlers, team leads, and production personnel. Reports material shortages, operational issues, equipment concerns, and other unusual circumstances to leadership.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR MATERIAL/PRODUCT

Carelessness in handling or transporting materials and finished products may result in product damage, inventory inaccuracies, line interruptions, delayed production, or missed shipments. Responsible for maintaining accurate material movement and inventory transactions.

Contact With Others

Regular interaction with coworkers, team leads, supervisors, and support staff is required. Clear, professional, and concise communication is essential to support safe and efficient operations.

PHYSICAL EFFORT

Work involves frequent hand, wrist, and arm movements and may require operating a forklift for extended periods. Duties include walking, bending, twisting, stooping, climbing, and lifting up to approximately 35 pounds. Assistance must be obtained when lifting items exceeding 35 pounds. Normal or corrected vision and hearing are required. Good hand-eye coordination and the ability to safely operate powered industrial equipment are essential.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR EQUIPMENT

Responsible for the safe operation and care of forklifts and other material handling equipment. Damage to equipment, inventory, or facility property may result in operational disruptions and financial loss.

WORKING CONDITIONS/HAZARDS

Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to materials such as wood dust and aluminum. The position may require working in temperatures up to 95°F or higher. Hazards may include slips, trips, falls, strains, cuts, pinch points, and injuries associated with material handling and forklift operation. Continuous attention to safe work practices is required.

Safety Responsibilities

Must adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and any other designated equipment, must be worn as required. Care and attention are necessary when handling heavy or awkward materials, operating forklifts, and storing materials in elevated rack locations to prevent injury and property damage.

Other Requirements

Performs additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by management. Reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.