Warehouse Forklift & Packaging Operator

Ontario Trillium Foundation; Covington (LA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Abita in Covington, LA is seeking a Warehouse Forklift & Packaging Operator to support both warehouse logistics and packaging line operations. You will safely operate material handling equipment, move inventory, and help ensure product quality and compliance.

The role requires standing for long periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and following GMPs and SOPs. A high school diploma or GED and basic computer skills are required, with an interest in beer and craft brewing helpful.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Basic knowledge of computers or similar systems.
• Strong safety awareness and commitment to GMPs.
• Attention to detail and accurate work practices.
• Eligible to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Operate a forklift to load, unload, and transport materials.
• Receive, inspect, and store incoming materials per SOPs.
• Move product between dry storage and cooler per storage guidelines.
• Operate packaging machinery and assist with changeovers and setup.
• Conduct quality checks and complete required production reports.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety in the warehouse and packaging areas.

Skills

Safety awareness

Attention to detail

Manual dexterity

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift

Packaging machinery

Job description

Position Summary

The Warehouse Forklift & Packaging Operator is responsible for supporting both warehouse logistics and packaging line operations. This role includes safely operating material handling equipment, managing inventory movement, and performing tasks associated with the packaging of finished products. The position requires adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), a strong focus on safety, quality assurance, and maintaining efficient production and warehouse workflows.

Warehouse & Forklift Operations

• Operate a forklift in a safe and orderly manner to load, unload, and transport materials.
• Load trucks based on delivery schematics and shipping requirements.
• Receive, inspect, and store incoming materials according to SOP guidelines.
• Move product between dry storage and cooler, ensuring proper storage conditions.
• Operate stretch wrapper in accordance with SOP guidelines.
• Maintain organization and accuracy of inventory within designated warehouse locations.

Packaging Operations

• Operate and monitor packaging machinery to ensure product quality and conformity to standards.
• Troubleshoot and adjust machinery during operation to minimize downtime.
• Assist with product changeovers and machine setup based on production needs.
• Perform light maintenance and basic machine adjustments.
• Verify correct product codes and date coding accuracy on all packaged goods.
• Remove finished products from the line and separate rejected items per quality standards.
• Assist with hand-packing, rework, and other packaging-related tasks as needed.
• Stock and replenish packaging materials such as cartons, wraps, labels, glue, and ink.

Quality, Reporting & Compliance

• Conduct quality checks including code verification and product inspections.
• Complete required production and operational reports.
• Follow all safety guidelines, GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and standard work procedures.
• Maintain cleanliness of work areas including warehouse, packaging lines, and surrounding spaces.
• Clean equipment areas including machine perimeters, infeed/discharge zones, and coding equipment.

Working Conditions

• Flexible to working rotating schedules as business needs arise (typical work week = 45 hours).
• Position requires standing for long periods of time (up to 12 hours), bending, stooping, twisting, and lifting products and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Constantly stooping under conveyors and in and around the equipment.
• Routine pushing, pulling, reaching, upper body and arm rotation, arm extension, and climbing ladders.
• Very high noise levels in/around bottling line (ear protection required).
• Exposure to various temperature changes.
• Able to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (ear plugs, gloves, boots, etc.).

Supervision of Others

This position does not require any management responsibilities.

Education/Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Basic knowledge of computers.
• Knowledge of safe work operations, safety policies and procedures.
• Attention to details, ability to recognize when there is a problem.
• Love, appreciation and knowledge of beer, including a familiarity with the craft brewing industry and with beer styles.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Abita is an equal opportunity employer.