Forklift Operator

Southshore is an ISO 9001:2015 certified third party logistics provider delivering cost effective integrated logistics and outsourcing supply chain solutions to businesses in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Nebraska, and Iowa. This position is located at our Normal, IL facility.

The forklift operator plays a critical role in the safe, efficient, and accurate movement of good within the regional distribution center (RDC). The forklift operator follows and adheres to the Southshore Companies standard operating procedures to deliver best-in-class customer service while maintaining a high standard of operational excellence. The forklift operator is an empowered team member responsible for upholding the culture and values of the company.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Successfully operates a power industrial forklift by moving levers, pressing pedals, and controlling lifting apparatus.
• Perform daily forklift inspections and follow forklift operating guidelines.
• Safely operate sit down forklift trucks to transport, stack, and organize products within the RDC.
• Safely load and unload truck (receive/process), put-away and pick product, and maintain warehouse organization and cleanliness.
• Ensure accurate and timely movement of product to meet operational goals using scanning equipment.
• Assistant in inventory management by following Southshore Companies policy and procedures.
• Identify, report, and fix damaged inventory and shortages throughout the day.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines and protocols while operating forklift trucks.
• Replaces forklift propane tank and/or charge batteries, as needed.
• Report any equipment malfunctions and participate in regular safety training.
• Ensure the integrity of products during handling and transportation.
• Collaborate with team members to meet quality standards.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with team members and supervisors.
• Inspect the ceiling, sidewalls, and floor for damage before loading or unloading any trailer from an outside carrier. Notify the driver and the supervisor or manager of any pre-existing damage.
• Performs cleanup of the shipping and receiving areas at the end of the shift or as required.
• Performs all duties in accordance with Southshore Companies safety manual.
• Regular (punctual and dependable) attendance is an essential function of this job.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1 or more years proven experience as a Lift Truck Operator (LTO) working in a similar industry (distribution warehouse) is preferred; additional education may be substituted for years of work experience.
• Powered Industrial Forklift Truck License (we will train and provide certification). Prior license/certification is highly preferred.
• Prior SAP scanning experience is a plus.
• Inventory control experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skill, and/or Abilities:

• Ability to read, write, count, and perform basic math skills of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
• Required initiative and ability to work independently and in a team setting.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and guidelines for material handling equipment.
• Ability to talk, listen, understand, and follow directions.
• Ability to set priorities and flexibly to reset priorities in a changing environment.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet productivity targets.
• Ability to pay attention to details and accuracy in inventory control.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Good organizational skills.
• Mechanical aptitude skills are required.
• Knowledge and experience using forklift SAP inventory equipment scanning system.
• Computer skills are preferred.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work overtime and some Saturdays as needed by the business (especially during peak season - January through April)

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

• Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 60 pounds.
• Regularly required to talk and/or hear to communicate with co-workers, supervisors, managers, and/or truck drivers.
• Manual dexterity is required for operating machinery.
• Frequently required to bend, twist, turn, kneel, and/or squat.
• Frequently required to stand and/or walk on the concrete warehouse floor.
• Frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Frequently required to reach with hands and arms.
• Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to work in various weather conditions and tolerate exposure to typical noises and smells associated with a warehouse.
• Safety equipment to include but not limited to a hi-vis safety best or shirt, safety glasses, gloves, closed toe shoes, long sleeves, long pants, above ankle socks, and masks (as needed).
• Our facility handles soybeans. Applicants with soy allergies should be aware of potential exposure in the work environment.

Pay:

• $17.35 per hour
• Seasonal bonus program of $2.25 on top of your hourly wage from November-April each year!*

Shift:

• 7AM-3:30PM April - November
• Split shifts from November-April; 5:45AM-2:15PM + OT & 2PM - 10:30PM + OT
• Ability to work both shifts if necessary is preferred

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse and Child
• 401(k) + 4% Company Match
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Pet Insurance
• EAP Program

Southshore Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.