Taylor Forklift Operator (Natchez)

Jones Lumber; Natchez (MS); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Jones Lumber in Natchez, MS is seeking a Forklift Operator to safely move logs, bundles, and finished goods using a Taylor 300 forklift. The role reports to Production Foreman and collaborates with Production and Shipping teams.

A strong emphasis on safe operation and load handling is required. Ideal candidates have 1+ years in industrial forklift work in manufacturing, with a preference for forklift licensing or certification.

Qualifications

• Ability to safely operate an industrial forklift and handle heavy loads.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Forklift license or certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate the Taylor 300 forklift to move logs, lumber bundles, and finished goods safely.
• Load, unload, stack, and stage material according to production needs.
• Maintain clear travel paths and awareness of pedestrians and other equipment.

Skills

Forklift operation

Safety awareness

Instruction comprehension

Job description

Forklift Operator (Taylor 300)

Department: Production (Grade Mill) | Reports to: Production Foreman | Location: Natchez

What Makes Our Culture Different

We run on five core values: Integrity, Passion, Unity, Sustainability, and Humility. That means we do the right thing when no one is watching, we care deeply about our craft, and we win as one team. Safety, teamwork, and genuine care for our people guide how we operate every day.

Why This Role Matters

The Forklift Operator keeps the grade mill moving. Every log, lumber bundle, and load of finished goods you move safely and on time keeps production flowing and gets product to our customers. When you do your job well, the whole mill wins.

Position Summary

The Forklift Operator safely operates a Taylor 300 forklift to move logs, lumber bundles, and finished goods within the grade mill. The role reports to the Production Foreman and works closely with Production and Shipping teams. A thorough understanding of safe equipment operation and load handling is critical to success.

Primary Responsibilities

Equipment Operation and Material Handling

• Operate the Taylor 300 forklift to move logs, lumber bundles, and finished goods safely and efficiently.


• Load, unload, stack, and stage material according to production needs and load requirements.


• Keep travel paths and work areas clear, and maintain awareness of pedestrians and other equipment at all times.

Inspection and Care of Equipment

• Complete a documented pre-shift inspection of the forklift before each use.


• Report any damage, malfunction, or unsafe condition immediately and remove the equipment from service when required.


• Keep the forklift clean and report maintenance needs to your supervisor.

Safety and Compliance

• Follow all area and machine-specific safety regulations and wear all required personal protective equipment.


• Operate within the forklift’s load capacity and follow safe travel, stacking, and parking procedures.


• Follow all other safety regulations set forth by the company.

Reporting and Administration

• Complete all daily reports and inspection checklists accurately and on time.


• Complete additional tasks as assigned by members of management.

Key Performance Indicators

• Pre-shift inspections completed and documented daily.


• Material moved safely, accurately, and on time to support production.


• Zero safety incidents and full PPE compliance.


• Minimal product and equipment damage.


• Daily reports completed accurately and on time.

Qualifications and Skills

Required Technical Skills

• Ability to safely operate an industrial forklift and handle heavy loads.


• Sound judgment around moving equipment and people.


• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Preferred Technical Skills

• Forklift operating license or certification.

Experience

• 1 or more years of industrial forklift experience in a manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 50 pounds.


• Ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with body, arms, and/or legs.


• Ability to exert muscle force in repeated or continuous motion for long periods.


• Ability to stand for an extended period of time.

The Ideal Candidate

They live our values: Integrity in reporting what they find and following every safety step, Passion for keeping the mill moving, Unity in working as part of a team, Sustainability in caring for equipment and material so nothing is wasted, and Humility in asking questions and pitching in wherever needed. They are self-motivated, dependable, energetic, and willing to take initiative in a fast-paced environment.

Growth Opportunities

This role can grow into other heavy equipment operator positions, a Shipping Supervisor role, or other production leadership positions over time. We invest in our people, and your growth is part of our plan.