Baler Forklift Operator

28d•$17 - $19

About The Position

As a Baler / Forklift Operator at RWB Thrift, you help operate the baler and forklift to process and transport donated materials such as clothing, textiles, cardboard, and plastics. You collect, sort, and feed materials into the baler's hopper, monitor controls to ensure proper compaction, and securely tie and label bales before moving them to designated storage areas by forklift. You also operate and maintain equipment, organize donated items, follow safety procedures, and keep work areas clean and orderly. The position supports thrift store operations as well as recycling and waste reduction efforts. The work takes place in a consistently busy, fast-paced, noisy, and brightly lit store and production environment. The role includes regular interaction with customers, donors, and coworkers, and requires flexibility to switch tasks or departments as operational needs dictate. Employees may need a fundamental understanding of spoken and written English to understand instructions and communicate with people who primarily use English. Employment eligibility is verified through E-Verify.

Requirements

Previous thrift, retail, warehouse, or back-of-house experience is preferred but not required.
Ability to safely and effectively perform essential job functions and meet qualitative and quantitative productivity requirements in accordance with applicable standards.
Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 70 pounds, frequently exert up to 25 pounds of force, and constantly apply negligible force when handling objects.
Ability to stand for extended periods.
Ability to perform repetitive motions and tasks requiring manual dexterity and fine motor skills.
Ability to maintain balance on narrow, slippery, or moving surfaces and while performing agile tasks.
Visual clarity at 20 inches or less and at 20 feet or more.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, noisy, and brightly lit environment.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills for regular interactions with customers, donors, and coworkers.
Flexibility to switch tasks or departments and work in assigned areas based on operational needs.
A fundamental understanding of spoken and written English may be necessary to understand instructions and communicate verbally and in writing.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Previous thrift, retail, warehouse, or back-of-house experience.

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain baler machines and forklifts to process and transport clothing, textiles, cardboard, plastics, and other materials.
Feed materials into the baler's hopper and monitor controls to ensure proper compaction into bales.
Tie and label bales securely and transport them to designated storage areas using a forklift.
Operate and maintain balers, trash compactors, and janitorial tools, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
Organize and sort donated items, ensuring accurate documentation and placement in designated areas.
Follow safety protocols and guidelines to prevent accidents and maintain a safe work environment.
Communicate with team members, follow store procedures, and coordinate operations.
Perform routine equipment maintenance to support optimal performance and longevity.
Maintain cleanliness and organization in work areas, including baler and storage areas.
Collaborate with team members to meet production targets and support thrift store operations.
Support recycling and waste reduction efforts in accordance with company policies and procedures.