Forklift Operator

King Ocean•Fort Lauderdale, FL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and timely operation of forklifts and material handling equipment in support of Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessel operations. This position plays a critical role in loading, unloading, transporting, staging, and securing cargo throughout the terminal while ensuring compliance with company policies, OSHA regulations, Port Everglades requirements, and all applicable maritime safety standards. The Forklift Operator must maintain constant awareness of vessel operations, surrounding personnel, equipment, and cargo to ensure efficient cargo movement while minimizing operational delays and safety risks.

Requirements

TWIC Card Required
Ability to obtain and maintain Port Everglades access credentials.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
Must successfully complete company-required equipment certification.
Knowledge of safe forklift operating practices.
Understanding of cargo handling procedures.
Ability to safely maneuver equipment in congested terminal environments.
Strong awareness of surroundings and hazard recognition.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Effective communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a vessel operations team.
Basic knowledge of load capacities and weight distribution.
Ability to work efficiently under tight vessel schedules and operational deadlines.
Employee must be authorized to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Minimum one (1) year of forklift operating experience in a port, warehouse, logistics, manufacturing, or industrial environment preferred.
Experience operating forklifts ranging from standard warehouse units to heavy-capacity forklifts preferred.
High School Diploma
Strong attention to detail
Must be able to speak and read conversational English
Fluent English/ Bilingual a plus
Applicants need to be able to obtain a Ports ID and a TWIC card

Responsibilities

Safely operate forklifts of various capacities to load and unload cargo from Ro-Ro vessels.
Transport cargo between vessels, warehouse facilities, storage yards, staging areas, and customer delivery locations within the terminal.
Position cargo for efficient loading sequences according to vessel loading plans.
Stack, organize, and secure cargo while maintaining required spacing and accessibility.
Assist with cargo staging before vessel arrival and departure.
Load and unload trailers, containers, chassis, and warehouse freight as assigned.
Handle oversized, heavy, sensitive, or specialized cargo using proper lifting techniques and approved equipment.
Conduct daily pre-operation inspections of assigned forklift equipment.
Report mechanical deficiencies, equipment damage, leaks, or unsafe operating conditions immediately.
Maintain cleanliness of assigned equipment.
Operate forklifts in accordance with manufacturer specifications and company operating procedures.
Refuel or recharge equipment as required.
Follow all OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and terminal operating procedures.
Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
Observe traffic patterns, pedestrian walkways, vessel operations, and restricted areas.
Perform work safely around vessel ramps, docks, cranes, trucks, trailers, and heavy equipment.
Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, emergency drills, and required training.
Immediately report accidents, near misses, unsafe conditions, or property damage.
Assist vessel loading and discharge operations as directed by supervision.
Communicate with foremen, signal personnel, checkers, and operations staff regarding cargo movement.
Support inventory movement and terminal housekeeping activities.
Assist with terminal cleanup and maintaining safe work areas.
Perform additional operational duties as assigned.