Forklift Operator

Primary Responsibility

Under general supervision, the Forklift Operator will ensure safe and accurate receipt, storage, and shipment of food products using equipment such as sit‑down and stand‑up forklifts, high‑reach forklifts, stand‑up straddle trucks, walk‑behind trucks, pallet jacks, double pallet jacks and radio frequency equipment.

• Efficiently and safely load and unload freight using proper equipment to move products to storage throughout the facility.
• Effectively stack and store merchandise, pick and assemble orders for shipment, check freight for accuracy, damage, and infestation, while labeling, sorting, wrapping, packing, and repacking as directed by management.
• In compliance with OSHA standards, operate equipment (sit‑down and stand‑up forklifts, high‑reach forklifts, stand‑up straddle trucks, walk‑behind trucks, single/double pallet jacks and RF scanners) in a manner that promotes safety.
• Maintain production standards while keeping a clean and orderly work environment.
• Perform additional duties such as inventory, cleaning, or forklift battery changes and may be required to perform other duties outside the normal responsibilities as needed.

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Three (3) months of related work experience preferred.

• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to work overtime, evenings, or weekends to complete work or attend meetings as assigned, and to adhere to attendance policies by arriving on time.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential functions and meet the physical requirements, including frequently operating a forklift, sitting, hearing, talking, using close vision, using hands to grasp or feel objects, typing, and manipulating controls. Employees may occasionally need distance vision, standing, kneeling, or crouching. Reasonable accommodation may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

While performing the essential functions, the associate must:

• Work in spaces with 55 inches of headroom.
• Tolerate controlled indoor temperatures ranging from 32 °F to minus 45 °F and outdoor ambient temperatures (heat, cold, precipitation).
• Work at heights up to 30 ft and access elevated products within a safety cage.
• Stand to rebuild pallets, tolerating a standing posture up to 5 hours over an 8‑10‑12 hour shift; walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as required.
• Lift boxes of 10–55 lbs from ground level to 80 inches and up to 70 lbs to 50 inches without assistance; lift and carry product up to 6 ft without mechanical help.
• Wear clothing, boots, headgear, and gloves that protect against the cold.
• Use hands and fingers for handling or feeling, reach with arms, talk or hear.
• Maintain close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance consistent with ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.

The Company’s good‑faith and reasonable estimate of possible compensation at the time of posting for this position is $22.50 hourly. Rate may vary based on work location.

Americold is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws. EOE/AA M/F/D/V.