Night Forklift Operator & Freight Dock Specialist

Forward Air Corporation; Linden (NJ); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corporation is seeking a skilled Forklift Operator for an onsite role in Linden, NJ. Responsibilities include loading/unloading freight, staging and scanning shipments, and supporting dock operations to ensure accurate, timely delivery.

Qualifications include a valid forklift certification, 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience, and strong English communication. Expect physical duties, safety compliance, and potential mentoring of newer staff, with a Mon-Fri 7pm-3am schedule.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required.
• Valid forklift certification/licensure or ability to obtain before operating equipment.
• 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to recognize numbers, labels, barcodes, and freight markings accurately; perform basic arithmetic.
• Willingness to learn and use handheld scanners and freight-tracking devices.
• Ability to safely operate material handling equipment with training.
• Regular and predictable attendance required.
• Physical ability to stand and move for 8–12 hours; lift up to 50–75 lbs with/without assistance.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using forklifts and other MHE.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors and warehouse areas.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
• Assist drivers with loading/unloading following safety procedures.
• Label, scan, and track freight to ensure accuracy.
• Identify damaged freight and report issues promptly.
• Maintain a clean, safe dock environment and equipment.
• Work various shifts including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Mentor and support other Material Handlers as needed.

Skills

Forklift certification

English communication

MHE operation

Safety procedures

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Handheld scanners

Freight-tracking devices

Basic computer systems

Job description

Forward Air Corporation is seeking a skilled Forklift Operator for an onsite role in Linden, NJ. Responsibilities include loading/unloading freight, staging and scanning shipments, and supporting dock operations to ensure accurate, timely delivery.

Qualifications include a valid forklift certification, 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience, and strong English communication. Expect physical duties, safety compliance, and potential mentoring of newer staff, with a Mon-Fri 7pm-3am schedule.