Material Handler Forklift Operator

Material Handler Shift: 1st Shift | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Employment Type: Full Time, Non-Exempt Pay Starting at: $21 per hour Additional Hours: Overtime and weekend availability required as needed Job Summary The Material Handler is responsible for maintaining 100% inventory accuracy and preparing “kits”-organized sets of parts and tools-for the production line. This role is critical in a lean manufacturing environment, ensuring that production team have exactly what they need, when they need it, without having to leave their stations to search for parts. Key Responsibilities Cycle Counting: Perform frequent physical counts of raw materials, components, and finished goods. Investigate and resolve discrepancies between physical stock and the ERP/MRP system or excel spreadsheet theoretical values. Kitting Operations: Gather and package specific components into “kits” based on Kit Sheets. Ensure all kits are labeled and staged for production. Discrepancy Reporting: Identify and report damaged goods, short-shipments from vendors, or “phantom inventory” issues to the Production Control Supervisor. Space Optimization: Maintain the “Kitting Area” and Inventory Area using 5S principles. Ensure high-velocity parts are easily accessible to speed up the kitting process. Material Transactions: Track and log manual inventory moves, ensuring the spreadsheet or system reflects real-time stock levels. Other Duties: Any other tasks assigned by supervisor/manager. Requirements & QualificationsEducation High School Diploma or GED required Experience & Technical Skills 1–3 years of experience in inventory control, kitting, or warehouse operations. Attention to Detail: High. Must be able to distinguish between very similar part numbers (e.g. Part-A123 vs Part-A124) Math Skills: Proficiency in basic arithmetic for counting, weighing, and unit-of-measure conversions (e.g. pieces to pounds). Technical Skills: Familiarity with ERP systems and/or excel based tracking sheets. Organization: Strong 5S mindset – maintaining a clean, lean, and organized dock environment. Certifications: Forklift Operator certification. Trainer certification a plus. Strong computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite Additional Requirements Lean Manufacturing: Experience with “Kitting” or “Just-in-Time” delivery to production lines. Understanding of Kanban systems and “Two-Bin” replenishment. Quality Mindset: Ability to perform basic visual inspections of parts during the kitting process to catch defects before they reach the assembly line. Problem Solving: Identifying why a part is consistently missing or “shrinking” from inventory. Working Conditions This is a shop floor position. Candidates should be comfortable with the following: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. frequently Must be able to stand and walk for most of the shift Be able to work in a team environment. Bending, crouching, and reaching required to inspect parts and operate equipment Shop environment — temperatures may vary seasonally Noise exposure on the floor; PPE required Must wear required safety gear including safety glasses, steel-toed shoes, sleeves, pants, and gloves. Pay: From $21.00 per hour Benefits: Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Work Location: In person