Forklift Operator

M&M Industries is a U.S.-based manufacturer of plastic pails and packaging solutions. We operate in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where safety, quality, and teamwork are critical to keeping production running efficiently.

The Forklift Operator is an experienced material handler responsible for safely and efficiently supporting production, inventory, and logistics operations. This role ensures material accuracy, leads by example in safety and 5S practices, and may assist in training or supporting Forklift Operator I employees and production teams.

Schedule: C Shift, 6:45AM-7:00PM, 3-3-2 rotating schedule with every other weekend guaranteed off.

Key Responsibilities:

• Follows and enforces safety policies and procedures to maintain a safe work environment.
• Conducts and documents daily forklift inspections; reports and escalates safety issues promptly.
• Maintains a clean and organized workspace in accordance with 5S and Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Reviews production schedules and work orders to determine material needs and prioritizes workload independently.
• Operates forklift to stage, transport, and replenish materials for multiple production lines or departments.
• Performs advanced inventory control activities including cycle counts, location audits, and variance reconciliation.
• Troubleshoots inventory discrepancies and partners with Supervisors, Planners, or Inventory Control to resolve issues.
• Completes shipping and receiving paperwork accurately; may prepare Bills of Lading or verify orders against system data.
• Ensures finished goods are scanned, wrapped, labeled, and staged in correct zones for shipment.
• Supports outbound loading and unloading operations and verifies load accuracy per order and dock audit logs.
• Identifies process improvement opportunities in material flow and participates in Kaizen or 5S events.
• Assists in training or mentoring Forklift Operator I employees as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Competencies (Knowledge/Skills/Abilities)

• Advanced forklift operation skills and ability to maneuver safely in tight spaces.
• Strong understanding of inventory systems and barcode scanning processes.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word (preferred).
• Ability to interpret work orders, Bills of Lading, and basic shipping documentation.
• Understanding of GMP, Food Safety, and HACCP standards as applicable to packaging operations.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills with the ability to coordinate between departments.

Education

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. (required)

Experience

• Minimum two (2) years of forklift or material handling experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment required.
• Experience with ERP or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) preferred.
• Demonstrated history of safe operation and strong attendance record.

Licenses and Certifications

• Forklift Certification (required)
• Additional heavy equipment certifications (preferred)

Physical Job Requirements

• Ability to lift and handle up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in hot or cold manufacturing environments while wearing required PPE.
• Ability to sit, stand, bend, and operate powered equipment for extended periods of time.