Material Handler (Labor Pool)

The Material Handler is responsible for the safe, efficient movement, receipt, storage, and staging of raw materials and finished goods within the tissue/paper/pulp mill. This position requires a highly experienced forklift operator with strong skills in dock receiving, automated palletizers, and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs). The role supports continuous production, inventory accuracy, shipping accuracy, and overall mill efficiency.Key ResponsibilitiesForklift & Material Handling OperationsSafely operate industrial forklifts (sit‑down, stand‑up, reach, clamp/roll-handling, or high-capacity trucks)Transport raw materials, paper rolls, packaging supplies, and finished goods throughout production, warehouse, and dock areasLoad and unload materials from trailers, railcars (if applicable), conveyors, palletizers, and production linesStage materials to ensure uninterrupted production and shipping flowDock Receiving & Inbound LogisticsReceive inbound raw materials, packaging, and supplies at shipping/receiving docksUnload trailers using forklifts while ensuring load stability and product integrityVerify deliveries against bills of lading, packing slips, and purchase ordersInspect incoming materials for damage, shortages, or quality issues and report discrepanciesAccurately scan, label, and record received materials into the warehouse or inventory management system (WMS/MES/SAP)Assign and transport received materials to correct storage locations or production staging areasMaintain dock organization, traffic flow, and housekeeping standardsCoordinate with shipping, production, and procurement teams regarding delivery schedules and material availabilityPalletizer, AGV & Automated Systems OperationOperate and monitor automated palletizer systems supporting finished goods productionInterface with AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) to ensure proper routing, staging, and material flowClear palletizer jams, replenish pallets/stretch wrap, and perform minor troubleshootingCommunicate equipment or system issues promptly to maintenance and supervisionInventory & Production SupportPerform cycle counts, inventory verification, and material reconciliationsEnsure proper product identification, labeling, and traceabilitySupport shipping operations by staging outbound loads and assisting with trailer loadingCommunicate effectively with production operators, warehouse staff, and supervisorsSafety, Quality & ComplianceFollow all Kruger Products safety standards, OSHA regulations, and site-specific proceduresConduct pre‑shift forklift and equipment inspectionsAdhere to traffic patterns, dock safety procedures, and lock-out/tag-out awarenessHandle all materials in accordance with quality and damage-prevention standardsMaintain clean, organized work areas using 5S and lean manufacturing principlesParticipate in safety meetings, audits, and continuous improvement initiativesRequired QualificationsMinimum 2–3 years of forklift experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or mill environmentDemonstrated experience with dock receiving and unloading operationsProven ability to safely handle high-volume or large-format materials (paper rolls, pallets, bulk packaging)Experience operating or working around palletizers and automated material handling systemsAbility to read and interpret shipping documents, labels, and work ordersWillingness to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidaysPreferred QualificationsPrevious experience in a tissue, paper, or pulp mill environmentForklift certification (or ability to achieve certification upon hire)Clamp truck or roll-handling experienceFamiliarity with WMS/SAP or manufacturing execution systemsStrong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skillsPhysical & Work Environment RequirementsAbility to lift up to 50 lbs and handle bulky or awkward materialsProlonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, bending, and operating powered equipmentWork in a manufacturing environment with noise, dust, heat, and moving machineryRequired use of PPE (safety shoes, hearing protection, gloves, hard hat, etc.)