Skilled Dock Forklift Operator

Forward Air Corporation; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corporation is seeking an experienced Forklift Operator in Indianapolis, IN to safely load, unload and move freight in a busy multimodal terminal.

You will handle pallets and freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, maintain accurate documentation with handheld scanners, and follow OSHA and PPE requirements while supporting dock productivity and team mentoring when needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required.
• Valid forklift certification/licensure required (or ability to obtain).
• 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.
• Basic arithmetic to verify freight counts, quantities, and weights.
• Willingness to learn basic computer systems, handheld scanners, and freight-tracking devices.
• Ability to operate MHE such as pallet jacks, dollies, hand trucks, and possibly order pickers.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload freight using forklifts and other MHE.
• Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors and trailers.
• Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping.
• Assist drivers with loading/unloading following safety procedures.
• Label, scan, and track freight using handheld scanners.
• Identify damaged freight and report issues to supervision.
• Follow safety policies and PPE standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe dock environment.
• Learn equipment operation, safety procedures, and job tasks.
• Support dock productivity and overall operational goals.

Skills

English communication

Basic arithmetic

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Pallet jacks

Dollies

Handheld scanners

Freight-tracking devices

Job description

Forward Air Corporation is seeking an experienced Forklift Operator in Indianapolis, IN to safely load, unload and move freight in a busy multimodal terminal.

You will handle pallets and freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and other MHE, maintain accurate documentation with handheld scanners, and follow OSHA and PPE requirements while supporting dock productivity and team mentoring when needed.