Forklift Operator

Location: Salida, CA

Pay Rate: $26.45 - $27.24 an hour

Shift: Day, Swing & Grave available

Must be available to work overtime, weekends, and varying schedules based on operational needs.

Our client, a leading food manufacturing company in Salida, CA, is seeking an experienced Forklift Operator to support shipping and warehouse operations in a fast-paced environment. This position is responsible for the safe and efficient movement, storage, staging, and shipment of products while maintaining quality, safety, and productivity standards.

Assignment Length: Temporary assignment for approximately 3 months, with the possibility of extension based on business needs and performance.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

Join a well-established and reputable food manufacturing company
Gain experience in a fast-paced, team-oriented warehouse environment
Opportunity for assignment extension based on business needs and performance
Competitive pay rate

Position Summary

The Forklift Operator plays a critical role in supporting shipping and warehouse operations by safely loading, unloading, transporting, and storing materials. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, dependable, and highly experienced operating multiple types of forklifts in a distribution center or warehouse environment.

Key Responsibilities

Load and unload trucks with palletized materials of varying sizes and weights
Move, stage, relocate, and store products throughout the warehouse
Perform high-stacking operations safely in congested warehouse environments
Support shipping functions by accurately moving inventory to designated locations
Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance concerns
Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety guidelines, company policies, and safety procedures
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
Work effectively with warehouse, production, and shipping personnel to meet operational goals

Required Qualifications

Minimum 3 years of recent forklift operating experience in a Distribution Center (DC) or warehouse environment
Experience operating all of the following equipment:- Stand-Up Forklift
- High-Stack Forklift
- Pull-Pack Forklift
- High-Reach Forklift
Proven experience performing high-stacking operations in fast-paced warehouse environments

Additional Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required
Valid Driver's License required
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Ability to follow directions and work independently
Ability to work overtime, weekends, and flexible schedules as needed
Commitment to workplace safety and quality standards

Preferred Qualifications

Food manufacturing or food distribution experience
Experience working under GMP and food safety requirements
Previous shipping and receiving experience