Forklift Operator - 1st Shift

Forklift OperatorThe Forklift Operator safely operates clamp forklifts and other industrial trucks to move finished HVAC and industrial refrigeration units throughout the warehouse, and to load and unload trucks. This role manages both incoming and outgoing shipments, verifies and maintains accurate records, and works closely with internal customer service teams and external customers to coordinate transportation and resolve shipping and receiving inquiries. The position is a contract role through the end of the year, with potential extension into January, and requires strong attention to detail, safety, and inventory accuracy.Responsibilities:Operate clamp forklifts and other industrial trucks to move finished goods within the warehouse.Safely load and unload trucks with finished HVAC and industrial refrigeration units.Ensure all industrial trucks are operated in accordance with safety standards and procedures.Manage the outflow of finished products to customers, ensuring timely and accurate shipments.Track and record shipping charges for outgoing shipments.Monitor and document which carriers are used by customers receiving the products.Respond to inquiries from customer service regarding shipping and receiving dates and status.Manage the inflow of product for warehousing, including receiving and staging materials.Receive paperwork for incoming shipments and accurately input inventory into the inventory management system.Track the inflow of materials to maintain up-to-date inventory records.Ensure all products are stored properly according to warehouse procedures.Verify that products are correctly labeled and easily identifiable in the warehouse.Confirm that products delivered and shipped are accurate and free from damage.Inspect packaging and crating upon receipt and prior to shipment, repairing or correcting issues as needed.Maintain required annual safety and forklift certifications.Keep the work area clean, organized, and safe in accordance with facility standards.Perform other related duties and assignments as required to support warehouse operations.Remain available to work in all areas of the warehouse as operational needs require.Essential Skills:Proven experience operating sit-down forklifts, clamp forklifts, and other industrial trucks in a warehouse environment.Demonstrated ability to safely load and unload trucks with various types of finished goods.Strong attention to detail for verifying shipments, labels, and packaging integrity.Ability to accurately receive, record, and input inventory data into computer systems and inventory management software.Capability to track shipping charges and carrier usage with a high level of accuracy.Effective communication skills to respond to customer service queries about shipping and receiving dates.Ability to function both as a collaborative team member and as an independent contributor.Commitment to safety, including maintaining required safety certifications at all times.Physical ability to occasionally lift up to 30 lbs and perform warehouse tasks involving sitting, standing, walking, and lifting.High level of focus and situational awareness in a busy warehouse environment with loud noise.High School diploma or GED.Additional Skills & Qualifications:Experience operating Toyota and Hyster clamp forklifts.Familiarity with stand-up reach trucks in addition to sit-down forklifts.Comfort using computer systems and warehouse software for inventory management and record keeping.Experience working with finished HVAC and industrial refrigeration units or similar large industrial products.Ability to adapt to different areas of the warehouse and support various operational needs.Strong organizational skills to maintain clean, orderly, and efficient workspaces.Why Work Here?You will join a safety-focused warehouse team that values reliability, collaboration, and clear communication. The role offers hands-on work with modern equipment, opportunities to build and maintain valuable certifications, and a chance to develop your skills in shipping, receiving, and inventory management. The environment supports learning, cross-training across different warehouse areas, and contributing directly to smooth, efficient operations.Work Environment:This position is based in a warehouse setting and involves regular sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and working around loud noise for extended periods throughout the day. You will use clamp forklifts (Toyota and Hyster), other industrial trucks, and computer systems and software to perform daily tasks. Personal protective equipment, including eye and ear protection, is required at all times, and some industrial trucks are equipped with additional personal safety features such as seat restraints. The role emphasizes a clean, organized, and safety-conscious work area, with adherence to all facility safety protocols and procedures.Job Type & Location:This is a Contract position based out of Ontario, CA.Pay and Benefits:The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $22.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace Type:This is a fully onsite position in Ontario, CA.Application Deadline:This position is anticipated to close on Oct 9, 2026.