Forklift Operator 17/HR Detroit

Forklift Operator

This role combines production line duties with sit-down propane forklift operation in an outdoor production and shipping environment. You will set up and operate bagging equipment, move and stack pallets of bagged salt, load and unload flatbed trucks, and maintain accurate production records while working year-round in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Set up machines on the production line by selecting the appropriate preloaded program and initiating operation.
• Operate the bagging machine to fill and seal bags of product according to production requirements.
• Stack pallets of bagged salt safely and efficiently using a sit-down propane forklift.
• Load and unload flatbed trucks and trailers with a forklift, following safe loading patterns and securing product.
• Bag product manually as needed to support production output and quality standards.
• Shovel salt outside to clean up spills and maintain a safe work area around the production site and shipping yard.
• Clean the work area daily, including production equipment and surrounding spaces, to maintain a tidy and safe environment.
• Complete production paperwork accurately during and at the end of each shift, documenting output and other required data.
• Keep accurate records of production data and report information as required by site procedures.
• Rotate between production duties and forklift operation throughout the day as business needs require.
• Participate in Friday clean-up and catch-up activities, or perform full production duties when weekly production is behind.
• Work overtime on Saturdays when needed, including during busy winter months when a six-day workweek is common.

Essential Skills

• At least 3 years of sit-down propane forklift experience.
• Proficiency operating a forklift to load and unload trailers and to drive in outdoor, uneven, or rough environments similar to lumber yards, junk yards, or construction yards.
• Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment, including familiarity with production metrics and output expectations.
• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions year-round, including heat, sun, rain, snow, and sleet for the full duration of the shift.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds consistently throughout the shift, including lifting bags of salt on and off the bagging machine.
• Ownership and use of steel-toed boots or shoes suitable for an industrial environment.
• Capability to follow safety procedures and operate equipment in a safe and controlled manner.
• Ability to complete paperwork accurately and maintain detailed production records.
• Willingness to work overtime, including Saturdays, especially during the busy winter season.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Forklift certification is preferred.
• Experience operating heavy equipment is an advantage.
• Experience loading flatbed trucks, including starting in the middle of the trailer and working toward the sides to ensure balanced loads.
• Comfort working in an outdoor production and shipping environment.
• Strong attention to detail and reliability in following established procedures.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a production and logistics team.
• Flexibility to perform both production and forklift duties as needed throughout the shift.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Detroit, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $17.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision; Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital; 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available; Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents); Short and long-term disability; Health Spending Account (HSA); Transportation benefits; Employee Assistance Program; Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave).

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Detroit, MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026.