Senior Forklift Operator & Dock Specialist

Forward Air Corp.; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 23,419,000 - 33,062,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a skilled Forklift Operator in Des Plaines, IL to safely load, unload, and move freight in a multimodal terminal environment. The role emphasizes accuracy, adherence to safety policies, and teamwork across dock operations.

You will operate sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, assist drivers, and help mentor developing Material Handlers while maintaining high productivity and freight integrity.

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.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, with safe lifting techniques.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors, trailers and designated areas.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
• Assist drivers with loading/unloading following dock and safety procedures.
• Label, scan, and track freight using handheld scanners and company systems.
• Identify damaged freight and report issues or equipment concerns promptly.
• Maintain a clean, safe, organized dock environment and follow PPE requirements.
• Learn equipment operation, safety protocols, and job procedures.
• Support dock productivity and workflow, work nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Act as a subject-matter expert on dock operations and mentor newer team members.

Skills

Dock/warehouse experience

English communication

Safety awareness

Basic math/arithmetic

Reading labels/barcodes

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Handheld scanners

Freight-tracking devices

MHE operation equipment

Job description

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a skilled Forklift Operator in Des Plaines, IL to safely load, unload, and move freight in a multimodal terminal environment. The role emphasizes accuracy, adherence to safety policies, and teamwork across dock operations.

You will operate sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, assist drivers, and help mentor developing Material Handlers while maintaining high productivity and freight integrity.