Material Handler / Forklift Operator

Position Summary:

The Material Handler is responsible for the safe and efficient movement, staging, and storage of raw materials, fabricated components, and finished goods within a pipe fabrication shop. This role supports production workflow by ensuring that materials are properly labeled, tracked, and delivered to the correct work areas on time.

Key Responsibilities:

• Load, unload, move, and stage pipe and related materials using forklifts, overhead cranes, pallet jacks, or by hand.

• Accurately label and tag materials with job numbers and part numbers per job specifications.

• Deliver materials to designated workstations based on daily production schedules.

• Assist in receiving incoming materials, verifying accuracy against packing slips and purchase orders.

• Report discrepancies in material deliveries immediately to the Buyer and Materials Manager.

• Maintain accurate inventory records through scanning or manual logs as required.

• Organize and maintain storage areas for efficiency and safety.

• Follow safety guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for material handling and equipment use.

• Assist with end-of-day cleanup and general housekeeping of the warehouse and yard areas.

• Support cycle counting and physical inventory processes as needed.

• Communicate with team members, supervisors, and other departments to ensure timely material flow.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 6 months of material handling experience, preferably in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.

• Education: High school diploma or GED preferred.

• Certifications: Forklift certification required or ability to obtain within 30 days; Overhead crane certification a plus.

• Skills:

• Basic math and reading skills for interpreting job travelers and labels.

• Ability to read and interpret material tags, job documents, and safety instructions.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors in varying conditions.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical labor throughout the shift.

Work Environment:

• Industrial fabrication shop with exposure to noise, dust, and moving equipment.

• Frequent use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, and hearing protection.