Outdoor Forklift Operator - Columbus, OH

Watco Transloading, LLC; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-job training

Watco University training

Leadership development programs

Career advancement opportunities

Competitive compensation

Job summary

Watco Transloading, LLC is seeking an Outdoor Forklift Operator to support daily transloading and site operations in Columbus, OH. The role involves operating heavy equipment, moving materials between trucks, railcars, and vessels, and ensuring safety and efficiency on outdoor sites.

Starting at $20.00 per hour, the position requires 2–3 years of equipment experience, a valid driver's license, and the ability to pass safety and equipment certifications.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience operating equipment preferred.
• Ability to pass classroom and field evaluations for equipment.
• Valid driver's license required.

Responsibilities

• Operate outdoor forklifts and heavy equipment safely.
• Move bulk materials between trucks, railcars, vessels, barges, and storage areas following procedures.
• Perform pre- and post-use equipment inspections and report issues promptly.
• Participate in daily safety briefings and maintain clean, organized work areas.
• Follow written and verbal instructions to meet schedules.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions while maintaining safety.

Skills

Equipment operation

Safety awareness

Inspection & maintenance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Requisition ID33906-Posted09/14/2026-Transload Operations

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco .

Here’s what you can expect from Watco:

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation andbenefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco'sSafe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

Starting Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour

Schedule: 7:00 A.M. - 3:30 P.M., occassional weekends as needed

Location: 1875 Frebis Ave., Columbus, OH 43206

The Outdoor Forklift Operator is responsible for safely operating a variety of heavy equipment to support daily transloading and site operations. Outdoor Forklift Operators work both independently and collaboratively in outdoor environments under varying conditions to ensure smooth and reliable site performance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Able to obtain qualifications and show competencies in the equipment type that they will be required to operate
• Transfer bulk materials and other cargo between trucks, railcars, vessels, barges, and storage areas in accordance with proper procedures and safety standards
• Conduct equipment inspections before and after use; report or address any maintenance or safety concerns promptly with leadership and safety team
• Participate in daily safety and job briefings, maintaining a strong focus on safety, environmental protection, and teamwork
• Follow written and verbal instructions to complete tasks efficiently and meet operational schedules
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions while maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work area this includes but is not limited to the cab of their equipment and surrounding work area

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be able to pass and/or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position and location. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Minimal of 2-3 years of experience operating equipment is strongly preferred
• Must show competency level and understanding with the type of equipment they are selected to operate by passing both classroom and field evaluation with satisfactory marks
• Must show familiarity with various cargo types and understand the hazards associated with them in regard to equipment, cargo, and pedestrian safety
• Valid Drivers license
• Past credentials for associated equipment are preferred but not required

Education

Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent