Forklift Operator - Part Time Evening and Weekend presso Kaiser Transport

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated Equipment Operator to take ownership of loading trailers to maximum capacity - by weight and volume - while maintaining a safe, efficient, and organized yard. This is not your average forklift job: it requires leadership, coordination, and grit to ensure every trailer is optimized for profitability. The Equipment Operator works closely with drivers, dispatchers, and fleet staff to ensure freight is measured, scaled, and secured safely and efficiently. The right person will thrive in a physically and mentally demanding environment and take pride in working smarter to fill the trailers and keep freight moving across the country.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts ranging from 4,000 to 50,000 lb capacities safely and efficiently
• Ensure safety compliance by reporting potential incidents or hazards
• Load open-deck trailers to maximum legal capacity by weight and volume
• Lead the loading process and direct drivers while in the yard
• Coordinate with dispatch, fleet, and drivers throughout the shift
• Identify, communicate, and execute on opportunities to add freight to loads
• Measure, scale, and document freight dimensions accurately
• Perform daily pre-trip inspections on yard and rigging equipment
• Report and escalate maintenance issues to the Fleet Department
• Assist drivers with securement, tarping, and load optimization
• Track, tag, and confirm freight destinations
• Participate in daily dispatch and yard meetings
• Maintain yard cleanliness and equipment (including washing and snow removal)
• Support training and onboarding for new yard personnel

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED (required)
• 2+ years of forklift experience (14,000 lb or higher preferred)
• Experience with open-deck freight (preferred)
• Experience in OTR open deck operations helpful
• Must be available to work Friday evenings and Saturdays (additional shifts during peak demand)
• Strong aptitude with simple math and numbers
• Proven ability to communicate effectively and coordinate with multiple departments

Preferred Personality Traits

• Thinks outside the box and acts decisively to accomplish goals
• Highly coachable and responsive to feedback
• Able to respond, adapt, and overcome obstacles in the moment
• Calm and stable demeanor
• Demonstrates backbone and accountability
• Positive, team-oriented, self-disciplined, and dependable
• Committed to doing the job right, not just getting it done

Physical & Work Environment

Must be able to stand, walk, lift, climb, push, and pull for extended periods. Exposure to heat, cold, dirt, grease, and outdoor weather year-round. Operates in a fast-paced yard environment. This is a part-time, 2nd shift, hourly position. You must be available to work Friday evenings and Saturdays, with increased hours during peak demand. This position is not eligible for overtime in accordance with the Motor Carrier exemption under FLSA guidelines.

Why Join Us

If you take pride in working with integrity and purpose - this is the role for you. Our Forklift Operators are the backbone of our operation, ensuring every trailer leaves the yard safely loaded and profitably packed. This position offers a demanding schedule and the satisfaction of meeting real world challenges – but without constant oversight or production quotas. You'll have the freedom to manage your time, make smart decisions, and take ownership of your results.