Dock Worker​/Forklift Operator

Job Summary

Dockworker responsible for efficient loading and unloading of freight, ensuring correct placement of items on trailers and adherence to safety standards. The role focuses on using forklift, pallet jack, or manual techniques and securing freight with airbags, cardboard, or straps to prevent damage during transport. The dockworker supports overall warehouse and material handling operations, meeting delivery schedules and maintaining customer satisfaction.

• Load and unload freight on trailers using a motorized forklift, pallet jack, or manually in compliance with state and federal DOT guidelines.
• Apply various loading techniques, including tight loading and cross loading.
• Transport freight continuously throughout the service center on non‑forgiving surfaces.
• Utilize the Dock Yard Management System to monitor freight shipment locations.
• Read and interpret shipping labels and complete relevant freight movement forms (shipping orders, city stripping manifests, freight bills, overage/damage reports, exception forms).
• Hand‑load, rewrap, or stack freight as necessary to ensure quality loading of all trailers.
• Secure freight inside trailers using appropriate tools and supplies (pallets, straps, rope).
• Maintain fast‑paced, deadline‑oriented performance while communicating with service center personnel.

This is not an all‑inclusive list of job responsibilities and duties. Employees are expected and must be able to perform all duties and tasks assigned.

• High school degree or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of safe and efficient lifting and transporting procedures.
• Knowledge of freight transportation procedures and various loading techniques (tight and cross loading).
• Experience completing freight movement forms (shipping orders, city stripping manifests, freight bills, overage/damage reports, exception forms).
• Ability to use the Dock Yard Management System for consistent monitoring of shipment locations.
• Availability to work at all times to meet customer pickup and delivery schedules.
• Proficiency in operating handheld tablets.
• English reading, writing, and speaking skills.

• Standing for up to 8 hours per shift, 5–7 days per week on concrete, wood, metal, sometimes wet and slippery surfaces.
• Sitting on a forklift for up to 8 hours per shift, 5–7 days per week.
• Walking up to 8 hours a day on non‑forgiving surfaces.
• Squatting, stooping, or kneeling frequently to handle freight.
• Climbing onto and off forklifts and maneuvering in small spaces.
• Loading and unloading full trailers of freight weighing up to 500 lbs., with or without a dolly or cart.
• Frequent pulling and pushing of freight up to 100 lbs.
• Handling freight up to 100 lbs., using OSHA guidelines for lifting techniques.
• Operating forklift controls, steering wheel, and lifting equipment.
• Using cognitive skills for attention to surroundings, safety logic, and reasoning.
• Working in hot or cold climates, in noisy or odorous environments.
• Attendance is a requirement.

• Encounters various work environments, including loading/unloading with others, enclosed vehicle and trailer operations, all weather conditions, and variable noise and lighting levels.
• Working days:
  Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.
• Preferred shift: PM (subject to change).

• Great Health Benefits, including a zero‑premium medical plan for employee‑only coverage.
• Vision & Dental coverage.
• Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability benefits.
• Flex Spending Accounts.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match and additional discretionary match opportunities.
• Life Insurance.
• Wellness Program.
• Tuition Reimbursement for Drivers and Technicians.
• Training and growth opportunities to build a career.
• Promote from within philosophy.
• National career opportunities available at 260+ service centers.

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).