Baler Forklift Operator

About The Position

As a Baler / Forklift Operator at RWB Thrift, you play a crucial role in the efficient operation of the baler machine and forklift activities. Your primary responsibilities include collecting, sorting, and feeding materials such as clothing, textiles, cardboard, or plastics into the baler's hopper. You will monitor the machine's controls to ensure it applies the appropriate amount of pressure to compact materials into tight bales, and securely tie and label resulting bales before moving them to designated storage areas using a forklift. Safety is paramount, and you will follow strict guidelines and protocols to prevent accidents and maintain equipment. Your role not only maximizes storage space and streamlines operations but also supports the thrift store's sustainability efforts by facilitating recycling and waste reduction.

Requirements

Ability to Safely Perform Job Functions: Capable of safely and effectively performing essential job functions in accordance with ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting both qualitative and quantitative productivity requirements.
Physical Strength: Must have the ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 70 lbs, frequently exert up to 25 lbs. of force, and constantly apply negligible force when handling objects.
Endurance: Able to stand for extended periods of time.
Manual Dexterity: Proficient in performing repetitive motions such as extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction and working primarily with fingers rather than the whole hand or arm.
Fine Motor Skills: Skilled in tasks involving seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with hand or hands.
Balance and Agility: Capable of maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling on narrow, slippery, or erratically moving surfaces, as well as maintaining balance when performing agile tasks.
Visual Acuity: Possesses clarity of vision at 20 inches or less and 20 feet or more.
Dependability: Effective performers demonstrate regular and punctual attendance. They behave consistently and predictably; are reliable and dependable in fulfilling their professional obligations.
Integrity: Effective performers think and act ethically and honestly. They apply ethical standards of behavior to daily work activities. They take responsibility for their actions.
Humility: Effective performers recognize one's own limitations, being open to learning from others, and treating everyone with respect and dignity.
Adaptability: Effective performers are adaptable. They embrace needed change and modify their behavior when appropriate to achieve organizational objectives. They are effective in the face of uncertainty.
Inclusion: Effective performers create and participate in an inclusive environment. They value and respect diversity, and foster a sense of belonging for all individuals.
Team Player: Effective performers are team oriented. They identify with the larger team and their role within it. They prioritize the collective success of the team over personal achievements.
Informal Communication: Effective performers clearly and articulately convey information to others in casual or informal situations. They understand that communication happens through verbal and nonverbal cues, and are able to interpret body language accurately and use it appropriately.
Professionalism: Effective performers conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with organizational values, policies, and standards. This requires a commitment to integrity, ethical conduct, and respect for diversity, as well as the ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders in a professional and courteous manner.

Nice To Haves

Previous thrift, retail, warehouse, or back of house experience is preferred, but not required
High school diploma or GED preferred

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain baler machines and forklifts to efficiently process and transport materials such as clothing, textiles, cardboard, or plastics
Feed materials into the baler's hopper and monitor controls to ensure proper compaction into tight bales
Securely tie and label bales before transporting them to designated storage areas using a forklift
Operate and maintain various equipment, including baler machines, trash compactors, and janitorial tools, ensuring they function safely and efficiently
Organize and sort donated items, ensuring accurate documentation and placement in designated areas
Follow strict safety protocols and guidelines to prevent accidents and maintain a safe work environment
Communicate effectively with team members, following store procedures and coordinating operations to streamline processes
Perform routine maintenance on equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity
Maintain cleanliness and organization in work areas, including baler and storage areas
Collaborate with team members to achieve production targets and support thrift store operations
Support recycling and waste reduction efforts in alignment with company policies and procedures