Senior Forklift Operator & Dock Specialist

Forward Air Corporation; Laredo (TX); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corporation is seeking a Freight Handler (Forklift Operator) in Laredo, TX. You will safely load/unload freight, stage and track cargo, and assist drivers while maintaining accurate records using handheld scanners.

The role requires a forklift certification, English communication skills, 3+ years dock experience, and the ability to lift up to 75 lbs with assistance. Expect a physically demanding environment with varied shifts.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required.
• Valid forklift certification/licensure (or ability to obtain before operating equipment) required.
• 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience required.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing, to understand safety and operational instructions, work assignments, and freight documentation.
• Ability to recognize numbers, labels, barcodes, and freight markings accurately, and to perform basic arithmetic to verify freight counts, quantities, and weights.
• Willingness and ability to learn and use basic computer systems, handheld scanners, and freight-tracking devices.
• Ability to safely operate MHE such as pallet jacks, dollies, hand trucks, order pickers, pallet riders, conveyors, dock plates, dock levelers, sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks (with training).
• Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance.
• Extensive standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and twisting for 8-12 hours per shift; lift up to 50 lbs, occasionally up to 75 lbs with assistance.
• Work in a non-climate-controlled environment with exposure to temperature extremes and noise.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors, trailers, and warehouse areas.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
• Assist drivers with loading and unloading following safety procedures.
• Label, scan, and track freight with handheld devices to ensure accuracy.
• Identify damaged freight and report issues to supervision.
• Maintain a clean, safe dock environment and comply with PPE policies.
• Learn equipment operation and safety procedures under supervision.
• Support dock productivity and workflow efficiency.
• Work nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Handle oversized/high-value freight safely.
• Assist with dock coordination and task prioritization, sometimes acting in lead capacity.
• Train and mentor other Material Handlers.

Skills

English communication

Math basics

Safety awareness

Mentoring/training

Education

High School Diploma/GED (preferred)

Tools

Handheld scanners

Freight-tracking devices

Pallet jacks

Job description

Forward Air Corporation is seeking a Freight Handler (Forklift Operator) in Laredo, TX. You will safely load/unload freight, stage and track cargo, and assist drivers while maintaining accurate records using handheld scanners.

The role requires a forklift certification, English communication skills, 3+ years dock experience, and the ability to lift up to 75 lbs with assistance. Expect a physically demanding environment with varied shifts.