Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator Job Description

The 1st Shift Forklift Operator safely operates sit‑down gas forklifts to move, stack, and handle recycling materials and garbage throughout a busy facility. This role involves material handling, general labor, and light equipment maintenance while working both indoors and outdoors in a fast‑paced, industrial environment. The position requires a hands‑on team player who is comfortable working around waste materials and supporting various tasks across the operation as needed.

• Operate sit‑down gas forklifts to move, stack, and transport recycling materials and garbage throughout the facility.
• Load, unload, and transfer materials using forklift, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment.
• Empty full containers and ensure materials are placed in the appropriate locations for processing or disposal.
• Perform general preventive maintenance on forklift equipment to keep it in safe and reliable working condition.
• Assist with operating additional equipment such as skid steers, balers, loaders, and similar machinery as experience and training allow.
• Handle heavy lifting of 50 pounds or more as part of daily material handling and general labor duties.
• Support general labor tasks, including picking, loading, and maintaining a clean and organized work area.
• Work both indoors and outdoors in varying conditions, including hot, dirty, and loud environments around garbage and recycling materials.
• Collaborate with team members and help out wherever needed, contributing to a supportive, all‑hands‑on‑deck culture.
• Follow all safety procedures and facility guidelines to maintain a safe work environment for yourself and others.

• 2–5 years of forklift operating experience, preferably with sit‑down gas forklifts.
• 1+ year of small equipment operating experience (such as skid steers, loaders, or similar machinery).
• Proven material handling experience in an industrial or warehouse environment.
• Ability to safely lift and move 50 pounds or more on a regular basis.
• Experience with heavy equipment operation in a fast‑paced setting.
• Proficiency using pallet jacks and other basic material handling tools.
• Comfort working around garbage, recycling materials, and in hot, dirty, and loud conditions.
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors for extended periods.
• Strong safety awareness and adherence to operational procedures.
• Reliable attendance and the ability to work early morning start times.

• Experience operating skid steers, loaders, balers, or similar equipment is a plus.
• Willingness to work occasional Saturdays, including mandatory Saturdays following holidays.
• Flexibility to work overtime and extended hours as desired.
• Team‑oriented mindset with a willingness to assist in different areas of the facility as needed.

The company offers a stable career path in a resilient industry with strong long‑term prospects and significant opportunities for advancement. Team members can take advantage of unlimited overtime, allowing them to maximize their earnings based on their preferences. After being hired on directly, employees receive a pay increase and gain access to a comprehensive full‑time benefits plan, including competitively priced health plans.

The organization fosters loyalty and long‑term careers, as shown by the fact that a large majority of employees have been with the company for more than five years.

Contract to Hire position based out of Madison, WI.

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $21.00/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
• Employe…