Marine Forklift Operator

Description

Established in 1969, Cigarette Racing has innovative vision and legendary style. Cigarette boats are uniquely hand-crafted in the United States and known globally for power, comfort, and luxury. Our high-level execution and premium quality are second to none and we stay committed to building the finest powerboats and center consoles in the world.

We are seeking a Marine Forklift Operator - Vessel Movement who will be responsible for safely moving, positioning, loading, and staging 41', 42', 52', and 59' high-performance vessels throughout the manufacturing facility and company property. This role operates heavy-capacity forklifts and material-handling equipment while protecting employees, vessels, equipment, and property.

The position requires forklift certification, strong spatial awareness, and strict compliance with OSHA standards and company safety procedures. The role also supports Facilities and Stockroom/Materials operations by moving materials, handling deliveries, relocating equipment, and meeting general facility needs.

• Safely operate forklifts and authorized equipment to move, position, stage, load, and relocate 41', 42', 52', and 59' vessels.
• Evaluate vessel size, weight, balance, clearance, travel path, and surrounding conditions before movement.
• Ensure vessels are properly supported, balanced, and positioned while protecting finished surfaces and components from damage.
• Coordinate vessel movement with Production, Facilities, Quality Control, Service, and other departments.
• Use designated spotters and established communication procedures when maneuvering vessels in restricted or congested areas.
• Stage vessels as required for production, inspections, sea trials, service, transportation, and delivery.

• Maintain required forklift certification and operate equipment in accordance with OSHA standards, company procedures, and rated capacity requirements.
• Perform required pre-use equipment inspections and promptly report mechanical issues, damage, or unsafe conditions.
• Follow established vessel-movement procedures, including proper load positioning, use of spotters, and pedestrian/traffic safety practices.
• Wear required PPE and immediately report accidents, near misses, or safety hazards.
• Participate in required safety training and remove unsafe equipment from service when necessary.

• Support Facilities with equipment and material movement, general facility projects, cleanup, organization, and basic handyman-related tasks.
• Serve as a runner for Stockroom/Materials, transporting parts, supplies, tools, and equipment to production departments.
• Assist with receiving, loading, unloading, staging, and storing incoming materials and vendor deliveries.
• Support movement and organization of large or heavy inventory requiring forklift assistance.
• Maintain clean, organized, and unobstructed vessel staging and material-handling areas.

• Maintain forklifts and assigned equipment in clean and safe operating condition.
• Properly park, secure, and store equipment when not in use.
• Report preventative maintenance or equipment servicing needs to Facilities or management.

This list is not exhaustive, and responsibilities may be subject to adjustment based on the evolving needs of the business.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience operating heavy-capacity forklifts with large, oversized, or high-value loads required.
• Experience moving boats, marine vessels, large vehicles, or oversized manufactured products strongly preferred.
• Current forklift certification required.
• Knowledge of forklift capacity, load stability, positioning, and safe operating practices.
• Working…