Yard Associate

VanderWall Brothers; Spring Lake Township (MI); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

VanderWall Brothers is seeking a Yard Associate in Michigan to safely operate forklifts, move materials, load/unload, and maintain yard inventory. You will work with warehouse teams to optimize material flow, follow safety protocols, and report hazards promptly.

This role requires outdoor work, physical stamina, and a commitment to reliable, efficient logistics to support timely deliveries. Qualified candidates have forklift certification, proven forklift experience, and legal work authorization

Qualifications

• Valid forklift operator certification or license.
• Experience operating forklifts in industrial or warehouse settings.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and operate equipment responsibly.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts to move materials and products safely and efficiently within the yard.
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, and containers according to established procedures.
• Organize and maintain yard inventory to ensure easy access and accurate tracking.
• Conduct routine inspections of forklifts and report any maintenance or safety concerns.
• Collaborate with warehouse and logistics teams to coordinate material flow and support daily operations.
• Adhere strictly to all safety guidelines and company policies to maintain a secure work environment.
• Assist with yard cleanup and general maintenance tasks as needed.

Skills

Forklift operation

Safety awareness

Manual labor

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Inventory management systems

Yard management software

Job description

The Yard Associate plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient and safe movement of materials and equipment within the yard area of our facility. This position is responsible for operating forklifts to load, unload, and transport goods, maintaining organized storage areas, and supporting overall yard operations. The Yard Associate contributes to maintaining a safe work environment by adhering to all safety protocols and reporting any hazards or equipment issues promptly. This role requires strong attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively with team members to meet operational goals. Ultimately, the Yard Associate helps optimize yard logistics to support timely delivery and distribution processes.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Valid forklift operator certification or license.
• Proven experience operating forklifts in an industrial or warehouse setting.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and operate equipment responsibly.
• Comfortable working outside.
• Physical capability to perform manual labor, including lifting and standing for extended periods.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in a yard or logistics environment.
• Familiarity with inventory management systems or yard management software.
• Basic mechanical skills for minor forklift troubleshooting.
• Strong communication skills to effectively coordinate with team members.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Responsibilities:

• Operate forklifts to move materials and products safely and efficiently within the yard.
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, and containers according to established procedures.
• Organize and maintain yard inventory to ensure easy access and accurate tracking.
• Conduct routine inspections of forklifts and report any maintenance or safety concerns.
• Collaborate with warehouse and logistics teams to coordinate material flow and support daily operations.
• Adhere strictly to all safety guidelines and company policies to maintain a secure work environment.
• Assist with yard cleanup and general maintenance tasks as needed.

Skills:

The required skill of forklift operation is essential for daily tasks such as loading, unloading, and transporting materials safely within the yard. Proficiency in this skill ensures efficient handling of goods, minimizing damage and delays. Preferred skills like familiarity with inventory systems enhance the ability to track and organize materials accurately, improving overall yard productivity. Communication skills are used daily to coordinate with team members and supervisors, ensuring smooth workflow and adherence to safety standards. Additionally, mechanical aptitude supports quick identification and reporting of equipment issues, reducing downtime and maintaining operational continuity.