The Material Handler employee is responsible for safely and efficiently moving materials throughout the manufacturing facility using a forklift (Hi-Lo) while also assisting production operations as needed. This position requires the ability to transition between material handling duties and hands-on production work to support daily manufacturing goals, maintain workflow, and ensure materials are available where and when they are needed. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Safely operate a forklift (Hi-Lo) to move raw materials, components, finished products, pallets, and other materials throughout the facility.
• Load, unload, stage, and organize materials in designated areas.
• Deliver materials and components to production work areas according to production schedules and priorities.
• Remove finished products, scrap, and empty containers from production areas.
• Maintain accurate material locations and inventory levels.
• Assist production employees with various manufacturing tasks when material-handling duties are complete or as production needs require.
• Perform hands-on production duties, including assembly, packaging, machine operation, material preparation, inspection, and other assigned tasks.
• Help keep production lines supplied with the necessary materials to prevent downtime.
• Follow work instructions, safety procedures, quality standards, and company policies.
• Perform routine inspections of the forklift and report any equipment or safety issues.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Assist with changeovers, line setup, product movement, and other production support activities.
• Work cooperatively with production, warehouse, quality, and maintenance personnel.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support manufacturing operations.

Qualifications

• Previous manufacturing, warehouse, material handling, or forklift experience preferred.
• Ability to safely operate a forklift/Hi-Lo; forklift certification or willingness to become certified as required.
• Ability to perform both material-handling and physical production work.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions and safety procedures.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and respond to changing production needs.