Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator and Material Handler

The Forklift Operator and Material Handler is responsible for safely moving products, raw materials, and other commodities within the plant. This role emphasizes safety awareness while operating mobile equipment and requires adherence to all safety rules and procedures. The operator will load and unload trucks, retrieve and deliver materials, and maintain a clean and organized work environment.

• Load and unload trucks received at the dock and complete related reports.
• Retrieve packaged deliveries, in-process products, and finished materials from the warehouse by operating a forklift.
• Deliver products and materials to the appropriate departments.
• Enter related transactions for receipts, shipping, or inventory movements into the OPM system if required.
• Complete forklift inspection reports daily and maintain forklifts in good operating condition.
• Perform housekeeping tasks in the warehouse including maintaining work areas in an orderly fashion and keeping aisles and exits open at all times.
• Maintain a clean work environment both inside and outside the facility by using good housekeeping habits.
• Other work-related duties as assigned by the leader.

• 1 year of experience with sit-down forklift operation.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass forklift operator certification.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions in English.
• Reading and writing skills in English.
• Capable of passing an OSHA respirator physical.
• Ability to complete DOT hazardous materials handling and hazardous waste management training requirements.

• Experience handling liquid material on a forklift is preferred.
• Shipping and receiving experience.
• General production and machine operation knowledge.
• Material handling expertise.
• Familiarity with DOT regulations.
• Experience using RF scanners.
• Inventory management skills.

Our company prides itself on its family-like culture centered on core values including Responsiveness, Attitude, Proactivity, Integrity, Dependability, and Safety (R.A.P.I.D.S.). We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where every employee feels safe, valued, and has the opportunity to thrive. Our Des Moines site has grown significantly in the last five years, expanding with multiple new buildings while maintaining a close‑knit atmosphere.

The work is conducted in clean, new warehouse facilities that are temperature‑controlled. Employees work primarily on the 1st shift from 6 am to 2:30 pm, with potential variations based on workload. During the busy season, usually from January to June, 10‑hour workdays may be required. The work location is in Des Moines, Iowa, where a team of 12 operates alongside three truck drivers.

Due to the nature of the products, employees may encounter strong fumes within the warehouse. Uniforms and shoe protection are provided.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Des Moines, IA.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Des Moines, IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jan 20, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market…