Forklift Operator

Sims Limited • Chicago, IL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Forklift Operator safely operates a forklift to move, load, unload, and stage metal materials throughout a recycling yard. The role requires attention to safety, proper equipment care, and awareness of nearby employees and heavy equipment. The operator also supports general yard duties as needed.

The work takes place outdoors in varying weather and around noise, dust, scrap metal, uneven surfaces, trucks, and heavy equipment. The role requires wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Requirements

• Ability to safely operate equipment and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Dependable attendance.
• Ability to work overtime or weekends as needed.
• Must successfully complete required forklift training and evaluation.
• Ability to frequently enter and exit equipment and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, push, pull, and lift materials as required.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Comfortable working around noise, dust, scrap metal, uneven surfaces, trucks, and heavy equipment.
• Must wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, high-visibility clothing, safety-toe boots, gloves, and other required protection.

Nice To Haves

• Previous forklift or material-handling experience preferred.
• Industrial, recycling, manufacturing, construction, or warehouse experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a forklift to move, load, unload, and stage metal materials.
• Load and unload trucks, containers, bins, and pallets.
• Move materials to designated processing, storage, and staging areas.
• Perform and document required pre-use equipment inspections.
• Report equipment defects, damage, spills, incidents, and unsafe conditions.
• Follow site traffic rules, safety procedures, and equipment operating requirements.
• Maintain awareness of pedestrians, trucks, and heavy equipment.
• Keep work and staging areas clean and organized.
• Wear required PPE and participate in safety training.
• Assist with general yard duties as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• A range of attractive benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed