Dock Worker​/Forklift Operator

Job Summary

The dockworker must efficiently load and unload freight, ensuring the correct items are placed on the right trucks. Safety is paramount, and the dockworker uses equipment such as forklift, pallet jack, or manual techniques to handle materials. Proper securing of freight with airbags, cardboard, straps, and other tools is crucial to prevent damage during transport. The dockworker’s performance directly impacts the reliability of deliveries to customers.

• Load and unload freight on trailers using a motorized forklift, pallet jack, or manually in compliance with state and federal DOT guidelines.
• Use various loading techniques, such as loading tight or cross loading.
• Transport self and/or freight continuously throughout the service center on non‑forgiving surfaces.
• Utilize Dock Yard Management System to consistently monitor freight shipment locations.
• Read and interpret shipping labels.
• Familiarity with, and in some cases ability to complete, the various forms utilized in freight movement such as shipping orders, city stripping manifests, freight bills, overage/damage movement reports, and exception forms.
• Hand load, rewrap or stack freight as necessary.
• Secure freight inside trailers using appropriate tools and supplies (e.g., pallets, straps, rope).
• Maintain frequent contact with service center personnel; fast‑paced and deadline‑oriented.

• High school degree or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of safe and efficient lifting and transporting procedures.
• Knowledge of different loading techniques such as loading tight and cross loading.
• Familiarity with shipping documents and ability to complete them.
• Ability to utilize the dock yard management system.
• Availability for work at all times to meet customer pickup and delivery schedules.
• Ability to operate a handheld tablet when needed.
• Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking).

• Standing up to 8 hours per shift, five to seven days per week on non‑forgiving surfaces.
• Sitting on a forklift up to 8 hours per shift, five to seven days per week.
• Walking up to 8 hours a day on non‑forgiving surfaces.
• Performing frequent squatting, bending, stooping, kneeling.
• Climbing onto and off of forklifts several times a day.
• Loading and unloading full trailers of freight weighing up to 500 lbs, moving 100 lb containers, balancing 300 lb drums, rolling and lifting tires, overhead stowing of cartons weighing up to 100 lbs.
• Performing frequent pulling and pushing of freight up to 100 lbs and forklift related items.
• Hearing and seeing, including ability to detect horns, shouts, and inspect forklift mechanical equipment.
• Reaching for freight at waist level and occasionally above shoulder height.
• Lifting and handling objects up to 100 lbs using proper techniques.
• Using cognitive skills for safety logic, reading manifests, tablets, and inspecting areas for debris or defects.
• Working a variety of shifts to meet customer schedules; tolerance for hot or cold climates, noise, and odor.

The role involves exposure to various work environments, including loading and unloading in enclosed trailers, exposure to all weather conditions, noise levels that vary from quiet to loud, and lighting conditions that may be extreme.

Working Days:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday. Shift: PM. These days and shift are estimates and may change based on job scheduling and business levels.

• Great Health Benefits including a Zero premium medical plan for employee‑only coverage.
• Vision & Dental.
• Short Term & Long Term Disability.
• Flex Spending Accounts.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match and additional company annual discretionary match opportunity.
• Life Insurance.
• Wellness Program.
• Tuition Reimbursement for Drivers and Technicians.
• Training and growth opportunities to build a career.

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, and/or gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, military status, Vietnam Era and/or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law(s).