Forklift Operator / Yard Truck Driver

PLA Buyer LLC • Springfield, MO

4h • Onsite

About The Position

As a skilled Forklift Operator and Yard Truck Driver, you will play a dual role essential to our warehouse and yard operations. Inside the warehouse, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient movement of pallets and materials — primarily focused on loading and unloading trailers, organizing inventory, and ensuring all movements are accurately documented. In the yard, you will operate a yard truck (hostler) to move and spot trailers, keeping trailer flow efficient, organized, and safe. If you are a dependable individual with forklift and/or driving experience and a strong commitment to safety and precision, we encourage you to apply!

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED (required).
• Valid driver's license (required).
• Proficiency in operating a sit-down forklift; must pass PLA's forklift certification test (on-site certification provided if needed).
• Ability to read, write, and speak English well enough to follow safety procedures and job instructions.
• Strong attention to detail for accuracy in counts and documentation.
• Commitment to safety guidelines and procedures.
• Ability to work cooperatively within a team environment.
• Dependable and punctual attendance.

Nice To Haves

• At least 6 months of forklift operating experience (preferred).
• 1+ year of yard driving or trailer spotting experience (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Loading and unloading pallets to and from trailers with precision and care.
• Moving pallets to their correct locations throughout the warehouse to maintain organization and accessibility.
• Completing daily inspections of the forklift using a provided checklist, ensuring it is in safe operating condition.
• Safely refueling tanks, following established procedures for changing out propane tanks or charging electric tanks.
• Completing and confirming accuracy of loads, whether on paper or electronically, verifying counts of good and bad loads, and acting as the final inspector for all trailer loads.
• Ensuring that all materials moved from one location to the next are properly accounted for and marked for accurate documentation.
• Operating the yard truck (hostler) to move trailers within the facility safely and efficiently.
• Functioning as a yard jockey/trailer spotter, ensuring trailers are positioned at the correct dock doors for loading/unloading.
• Performing routine trailer checks and actively maintaining yard organization.
• Inspecting and maintaining yard truck condition (fuel, tires, oil, lights, etc.) and reporting mechanical issues promptly to the Supervisor.
• Recording trailer moves accurately on the trailer movement log and verifying trailer contents against shipping papers.
• Ensuring all trailers are properly chocked and doors secured before movement.
• Communicating effectively with dock supervisors to coordinate trailer moves and maintain flow efficiency.
• Maintaining a clean and orderly work environment at all times.
• Maintaining safe working conditions by following all guidelines and procedures for handling equipment and materials.
• Complying with all PLA policies and procedures, as well as federal and state safety rules.
• Assisting in other areas of the warehouse or yard as assigned to support and improve overall team operations.
• Adjusting as needed to new reporting relationships, work assignments, and work schedules to meet company needs and business requirements.
• Cooperating and working well with team members and management, maintaining clear and open communications at all times.
• Consistent and reliable attendance is an essential function of this job

Benefits

• Daily Pay Option – Access your earnings before payday.
• Weekly Pay – Get paid on time, every week.
• PTO (Paid Time Off).
• Full Benefits: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance – 3 medical plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield with low weekly premiums starting at $28.75.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) – Company contribution up to $750 annually with tax-advantaged savings.
• 401(k) retirement plan featuring up to a 4% employer match, eligibility the first of the month after 90 days, and access to a Financial Wellness Consultant.
• Flexible Benefits – Multiple plan options to fit your needs and budget.
• Prescription Drug Coverage – Low copays starting at $10 for generic medications.
• FREE Life Insurance & AD&D – Basic coverage provided at no cost upon employment.
• Vision Benefits – $10 eye exams and $150 frame allowance through Superior Vision by MetLife starting at $1.46 per week.
• Dental Coverage – 100% preventive care coverage with MetLife plans starting at $5.76 per week.
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability (STD) – Income replacement up to 60% of weekly covered earnings for a non-work-related injury or illness.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free and confidential support for work stress, grief, legal/financial issues, and more.
• Additional Voluntary Benefits – MetLife Legal and Identity Theft Services and Pet Insurance with ASPCA.
• LifeMart employee discounts (through ADP) on everyday stuff and larger purchases.
• Dell Employee Purchase Program (EPP) discounts available for personal use.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED