Forklift Operator

Garden Core is seeking a Forklift Operator to operate a forklift in a rugged 50+ acre outdoor environment and in a fast‑paced manufacturing facility. The successful candidate will work onsite in McLean, IL
.

• Operate stretch wrap machines, film roll‑up enders, and extended boom arm forklift equipment
• Organize product on the yard according to inventory procedures
• Safely load product onto and unload product from flatbeds and box trailers
• Validate packing slips, ship tickets, and other delivery documentation by auditing, recording and interpreting shipping documents, weights & measures, labels, and production schedules
• Other duties related to the nature of the job may be assigned on a temporary or permanent basis as needed

• At least 2 years’ experience operating a 5,000‑lb forklift in an outdoor yard environment
• High school diploma or GED, or equivalent combination of education, training and experience
• Ability to perform routine inspection, fueling and preventive maintenance duties (lubrication, cleaning, battery change)
• Ability to read and write in English
• Math, communication and comprehension skills to interface with transportation, dispatch and direct trailer hitch operations
• Ability to successfully pass internal Forklift Certification Training and demonstrate safety procedures
• Physical requirements include lifting up to 65 lbs, extended standing, walking, sitting, bending, climbing, working inside and outside, and use of fall protection equipment
• Able to perform job tasks in sometimes dusty, hot and/or cold working conditions
• Able to sit for extended periods, climb up & down from cab heights, and work effectively in extreme outdoor climate(s) – cold, heat, rain, fog

• Hourly rate of $17 – $18 per hour
• 401(k) plan / group retirement savings program
• Short‑term and long‑term disability benefits
• Life insurance
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays

• Highly competitive base pay
• Comprehensive medical, dental and disability benefits programs
• Group retirement savings program
• An inclusive culture that values opportunity for growth, development and internal promotion

Garden Core is a leading U.S. manufacturer of lawn and garden consumables, offering a broad portfolio of mulch, soil, stone and lime products. The Company has deep, long‑standing partnerships with major home improvement retailers and garden centers and delivers consistent, high‑quality execution across large‑scale private label and branded programs. The Company has over 1,400 employees and operates 58 manufacturing facilities across the United States.

Garden Core is an affirmative action and 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, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. AI tools may be used in certain stages of the employment lifecycle, such as candidate review;

however, all final employment decisions will be made by a person.