Forklift Operator

Summary

The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely operating powered industrial trucks to move, load, unload, store, and stage materials supporting petrochemical manufacturing and production operations. This role ensures materials are handled efficiently, inventory accuracy is maintained, and all work is performed in compliance with safety regulations and company procedures.

• This position is based in Tulsa, Oklahoma; however, periodic travel may be required to support business operations and project needs.

• The position reports directly to the Purchasing Manager

• Department:
  Procurement

• Operate forklifts and other powered industrial trucks to transport raw materials, finished goods, and production supplies throughout the facility and yard.

• Load and unload trucks, trailers, railcars, and storage areas while ensuring product integrity and safe handling.

• Move materials between production lines, staging areas, warehouses, and storage locations.

• Stack, stage, and organize materials in designated storage areas following warehouse and inventory procedures.

• Secure loads properly to prevent shifting, damage, or safety hazards during transport.

• Operate specialized attachments such as clamps, extensions, or drum handlers when required.

• Navigate tight spaces, production areas, and high-traffic zones safely and efficiently.

• Accurately record material movement using inventory tracking systems, scanners, or documentation logs.

• Identify damaged, mislabeled, or nonconforming materials and report discrepancies.

• Maintain proper stock rotation using FIFO or other inventory control methods.

• Conduct pre-shift and post-shift forklift inspections including brakes, steering, hydraulics, tires, forks, and safety devices.

• Complete daily inspection checklists and report mechanical concerns or safety hazards promptly.

• Perform basic preventative maintenance such as battery charging, refueling, and cleaning equipment.

• Remove unsafe equipment from service and notify maintenance personnel when necessary.

• Maintain forklift readiness to support production and shipping schedules.

• Follow all OSHA regulations related to powered industrial truck operation.

• Adhere to company safety policies and petrochemical industry safety standards.

• Maintain forklift certification and participate in required refresher training.

• Properly utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE) including high-visibility gear, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear.

• Observe safe speed limits, pedestrian right-of-way rules, and traffic control procedures within the facility.

• Follow hazardous material handling procedures when transporting chemicals or regulated materials.

• Comply with lockout/tagout procedures when applicable.

• Report near misses, accidents, or unsafe conditions immediately.

• Support production teams by ensuring timely delivery of materials and removal of finished goods.

• Coordinate with shipping, receiving, warehouse, and production departments to maintain workflow efficiency.

• Stage materials for production runs based on schedules and work orders.

• Assist with packaging, palletizing, and preparing products for shipment when needed.

• Document equipment inspections, maintenance issues, and incident reports accurately.

• Maintain clean, safe, and organized loading docks, storage areas, and production staging locations.

• Ensure aisles, walkways, and emergency access routes remain clear.

• Properly store pallets, containers, and materials according to company procedures.

• Dispose of waste materials and damaged packaging according to environmental and safety standards.

• Support 5S and continuous improvement workplace initiatives.

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Valid forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.

• Experience operating forklifts or powered industrial trucks preferred.

• Basic understanding of warehouse operations and material handling procedures.

• Ability to follow safety procedures in a high-hazard industrial environment.

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Experience in petrochemical, oil & gas, or heavy industrial manufacturing environments.

• Experience operating multiple types of forklifts including sit-down, rough terrain, or high-reach units.

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, and twist for extended periods.

• Ability to lift and maneuver materials up to 50 lbs.

• Ability to safely operate equipment in high-noise industrial environments while wearing required PPE.

• Adequate vision, depth perception, and hand-eye coordination to safely operate equipment.

• Industrial manufacturing and warehouse environment supporting petrochemical production…