Senior Forklift Operator - Night Shift & Dock Lead

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

Job summary

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, and move freight within a multimodal terminal. You will operate sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, maintaining accurate documentation and adhering to safety policies.

As a senior team member, you may mentor new Material Handlers, coordinate tasks, and support dock productivity. Valid forklift certification and 3+ years of dock experience are required, with shift work including nights and overtime.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required.
• Valid forklift certification/licensure required.
• 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.
• Basic arithmetic to verify freight counts, quantities, and weights.
• Willingness to learn basic computer systems and handheld scanners.
• Ability to operate MHE such as pallet jacks, forklifts, and reach trucks with training.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors and trailers.
• Label, scan, and track freight to ensure accuracy and documentation integrity.
• Identify damaged freight and report issues or safety concerns.
• Maintain a clean and safe dock environment and follow PPE standards.
• Support dock productivity and assist with workflow management.
• Work nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.

Skills

Forklift operation

English communication

Numerical accuracy

Basic math

Learning new tech

Attendance reliability

Education

High School Diploma / GED

Tools

Pallet jacks

Handheld scanners

Dock equipment

Reach trucks

Conveyors

Job description

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a Forklift Operator to safely load, unload, and move freight within a multimodal terminal. You will operate sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, maintaining accurate documentation and adhering to safety policies.

As a senior team member, you may mentor new Material Handlers, coordinate tasks, and support dock productivity. Valid forklift certification and 3+ years of dock experience are required, with shift work including nights and overtime.