Production Forklift Operator
About The Position
Vermont Hard Cider Company is seeking an experienced Forklift Operator to support first-shift production operations in Middlebury. The role keeps production teams supplied with materials, provides hands-on production support as needed, and helps uphold safety and quality standards. The schedule is Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pay is $19.00–$24.00 per hour, based on skills, experience, internal equity, and business needs. The operator works with production materials and finished goods, completes inventory and material-movement documentation, inspects equipment, and follows safety, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), food safety, quality, and operating procedures. The position may also support changeovers, cleanup, downtime projects, and other production-floor needs. Vermont Hard Cider Company is part of a beverage business that produces hard cider and other alcoholic and specialty non-alcoholic beverages. The company describes its commitment to employees and the community as socially, ethically, and environmentally responsible. It is an equal opportunity employer; employment is subject to applicable pre-employment screenings and background verification.
Requirements
- Two to five years of forklift operating experience in a production or manufacturing environment.
- Ability to obtain and maintain company-required forklift certification.
- Strong attention to detail and a consistent record of accurate documentation.
- Demonstrated safe work habits and ability to follow established production-floor procedures.
- Ability to work independently, communicate priorities clearly, and support an organized production workflow.
Nice To Haves
- Current forklift certification is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment safely on the production floor.
- Stage raw materials, packaging, pallets, and supplies for scheduled production runs.
- Keep production lines supplied and move finished goods efficiently to designated production-floor staging areas.
- Complete inventory transactions and material-movement documentation accurately and on time.
- Perform pre-shift equipment inspections and promptly report safety concerns or maintenance needs.
- Support production changeovers, cleanup activities, downtime projects, and other production-floor needs as required.
- Follow safety, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), food safety, quality, and operating procedures to maintain a safe, productive work environment.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off starting at three weeks in the first year
- Up to 10 paid holidays annually
- Paid parental leave
- Company-paid life insurance
- Company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance
- Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
- Annual bonus opportunity
- Monthly product allowance
- Employee referral bonus program
- Wellness and employee appreciation programs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
No Education Listed
