Night Shift Forklift Operator - Dock & Training Mentor

Forward Air Corporation; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 23,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corporation is seeking an experienced Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, stage, and document freight in a multimodal terminal or warehouse environment. The role requires certification, 3+ years of dock experience, and strong attention to accuracy and safety.

The operator will handle pallets and freight with various MHE, maintain inventory integrity, and support dock productivity. Training and mentorship of teammates are expected, with schedules including nights and overtime as

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required.
• Valid forklift certification/licensure (or ability to obtain) required.
• 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience required.
• Ability to recognize numbers, labels, barcodes, and freight markings accurately; basic arithmetic skills.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between doors, trailers and warehouse areas.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
• Label, scan, and track freight with handheld devices and company systems.
• Identify damaged freight and report issues or safety concerns to supervision.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized dock environment and follow PPE standards.
• Assists with dock coordination, workflow management, and problem resolution.
• Mentor junior Material Handlers and support training when needed.

Skills

English communication

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Punctuality/attendance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Handheld scanners

Freight-tracking devices

Job description

Forward Air Corporation is seeking an experienced Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, stage, and document freight in a multimodal terminal or warehouse environment. The role requires certification, 3+ years of dock experience, and strong attention to accuracy and safety.

The operator will handle pallets and freight with various MHE, maintain inventory integrity, and support dock productivity. Training and mentorship of teammates are expected, with schedules including nights and overtime as