Sheet Metal Puller / Forklift Operator

Sheet Metal Puller / Forklift Operator

Location: Richmond, VA

Job Type: Contract-to-Hire

Shift: 1st Shift | Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-5:30 PM

Pay Rate: Starting at $22.00/hour (Higher pay available depending on experience)

Overtime: Weekly OT opportunities available

Job Summary

We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Sheet Metal Puller / Forklift Operator to support material handling and production operations. This position will pull materials for production, operate sit-down forklifts, load and unload trucks, organize inventory, and ensure materials are delivered accurately and on time.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Pull sheet metal, plate, and structural materials according to work orders, cut lists, and production schedules.
• Operate sit-down forklifts to safely transport raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished products.
• Load and unload flatbed and enclosed trailers using forklifts; secure and stage materials for production or shipment.
• Verify material type, size, quantity, and heat numbers against work orders and packing lists.
• Deliver materials to production areas including laser tables, press brakes, shears, saws, and fabrication stations.
• Organize inventory and maintain accurate material locations throughout the warehouse and shop.
• Perform daily forklift inspections and report equipment maintenance needs.
• Assist with inventory counts and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Safely handle sheet metal, plate, tubing, and structural steel while preventing product damage.
• Work closely with production, shipping, and receiving teams to maintain material availability and workflow efficiency.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
• Perform other warehouse and material handling duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating sit-down forklifts in a manufacturing, warehouse, or metal fabrication environment preferred.
• Experience pulling orders from work orders, cut lists, or production schedules.
• Ability to safely move heavy sheet metal, plate, tubing, and structural steel.
• Ability to read tape measures and identify material sizes and specifications.
• Experience loading and unloading flatbed trailers preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to verify material accuracy before delivery to production.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer or inventory system experience is a plus.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in a physically demanding industrial environment.
• Commitment to workplace safety and quality standards.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a structural steel, sheet metal, or fabrication shop.
• Forklift certification or ability to become certified.
• Experience using overhead cranes is a plus.
• Knowledge of metal identification, inventory control, and warehouse operations.
• Experience working around fabrication equipment such as lasers, press brakes, shears, and saws.