Forklift Operator

Forklift operator must be able to drive propane powered forklift to push, pull, lift, stack, tier or move wood products or materials to/from machines, loading areas and storage areas.  Successful candidates must be able to work in various jobs which can include rotating to different job duties. These job duties could include various machine operations, handling material, grading material, quality checks, clean up, and other similar manufacturing activities. This position requires you to follow written and verbal job instructions, give and receive constructive feedback, and apply critical thinking. Employees must be able to use personal safety equipment while working in a manufacturing environment that includes moving machinery, fast paced fork lift traffic, machine noise, and a work environment that will vary depending on the time of the year. If you’re ready to be a team player in a family-like setting with a rich history, for priority consideration. We are especially looking for skilled forklift operators.

Key Responsibilities:  (1) Breaks loads down that are too high to be placed on other machine centers.  (2) Removes and replaces stickers on loads that could be stacked high. If load of wood is dropped, it is the forklift operator’s responsibility to pick it up.  (3) Checks oil and fluids, refuels, and blows down forklift with compressed air each shift of operation.  Always uses proper PPE (Gloves, glasses, long-sleeved shirt) when using compressed air.  (4) Responsible for neat and straight stacking of veneer/plywood.  (5) May have to straighten loads stacked by other shifts.  (6) May dump dumpsters as needed.  (7) Worker may be required to rotate to other jobs or perform other duties as needed for the efficient operation of the mill. (8) Timely and consistent attendance is an essential job function 

 

Performance Standards: (1) Worker must plan ahead to ensure the smooth timely flow of plywood and other materials to and from machine centers and storage areas. (2) Must complete marking, tallying, and other paperwork in a neat, accurate, safe, and timely manner. 

 

Work Environment/Physical Demands:  (1) Standing- The worker may stand, periodically, when adjusting stickers for veneer to be moved.  Pushing and pulling carts in and out to be picked up.  (2) Walking- The worker will be involved in walking while inspecting machinery prior to operation, adjusting stickers, evaluating load conditions, and adjusting equipment, or performing minor service of the vehicle.  (3) Uneven ground- May be exposed to some uneven ground, both in unfinished asphalt and or dirt or gravel, storage areas for veneer or other materials.  (4) Sitting- The worker will push and pull levers to raise and lower forks.  Will, additionally, operate controls, both foot and hand operated, steer vehicle from pickup to loading area and set loads for transportation.  (5) Lifting- The worker may be exposed to occasional or infrequent lifting of stickers used to support loads of veneer that are picked up by the forklift.  May move veneer to the loading site and return from the patching, dry chain or storage area.  (6) Climbing- Climbing onto and off machinery operation and minor servicing.  (7) Pushing- The worker will utilize a push/pull motion in operating hand controls and steering the forklift to raise and lower forks, devices to push/pull carts to the load and in general operation and movement of the forklift.  It should be noted, in addition, the worker will utilize a clutch and brake system while operating he vehicle, using both foot and leg motion on a frequent short duration basis, as cited above. (8) Twisting- While operating the forklift, the worker will be exposed to the need for occasional twisting to observe the load, looking from left, right, and forward motion, people and other motorized vehicle traffic for clearance or mobility. (9) Reaching- The worker will use a reaching motion while operating the forklift in controlling the levers and steering wheel of the vehicle and adjusting loads, and in performing very minor service types of activities on the vehicle, as well as adjusting stickers.  (10) Stooping- The worker may use a stooping motion when observing his/her vehicle or moving stickers or veneer to be moved.  (11) Kneeling- Picking up spilled loads.  (12) Crouching- Picking up a spilled load.  (13) Physical demands may change from day to day, employee’s discretion will be required and imperative at all times.  (14) Noise or Vibration- Some vibration from both the forklift and from the conveyors and other machinery within the plywood plant. (15) Hazards- Moving machinery; splinters; uneven surfaces; ergonomics involved in climbing on/off forklift, pushing/pulling carts, reaching for stickers; overhead hazards form stacked materials; traffic hazards; fueling and minor maintenance hazards; and slippery surfaces. 

 

Qualifications: Must obtain and maintain a forklift operator’s license. Must successfully complete structured job training and evaluation and sustain a high level of competency. Previous forklift experience in a production environment highly recommended. 

Columbia Forest Products is North America’s largest manufacturer of hardwood plywood and hardwood veneer products. Columbia’s decorative interior veneers and panels are used in high-end cabinetry, fine furniture, architectural millwork and commercial fixtures. 
 
Columbia Forest Products is an employee owned company that has a wide array of benefits: Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401K, Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance. Our company stands out because of our commitment to our employees. In fact, we have a CFP Foundation dedicated to helping our employees, employees families and the local community. 

Our Core Values we take pride in: Customer Service Above all Else, We Are Family, Share the Success and Absolute Integrity. If these are core values that you represent, please take the time to apply online for this rewarding career with Columbia Forest Products. Please make sure you have a good current phone number and email address on your application and you check them often, as we may contact you during the screening process.

Equal Opportunity Employer