Forklift Operator

Job Description - Counterbalance / Reach Truck Operator

Location: Kingston, ON

Shift: Monday to Friday

The Counterbalance / Reach Truck Operator is responsible for safely moving, storing, staging, loading, unloading, and retrieving wire, reels, pallets, and other materials throughout the warehouse and yard. This role supports shipping, receiving, production, and general warehouse operations by ensuring products are accurately identified, handled, and stored in the correct locations.

The position requires strong attention to detail, safe equipment operation, and the ability to work efficiently in a busy warehouse and yard environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate counterbalance forklifts and reach trucks in the warehouse and yard
• Load, unload, move, and accurately place wire, reels, pallets, and other materials
• Place and retrieve products from racking at various heights
• Pick, stage, and move orders based on shipping and warehouse requirements
• Verify product numbers, descriptions, quantities, labels, and storage locations before moving materials
• Inspect products for visible damage, incorrect labelling, or discrepancies and report concerns to the supervisor
• Support shipping by pulling and staging orders and loading trucks safely
• Support receiving by unloading incoming shipments and staging materials in designated areas
• Supply wire and materials to production or other departments as required
• Use scanners, inventory systems, and warehouse documentation accurately
• Complete daily equipment inspections and report equipment concerns
• Maintain organized warehouse, staging, and yard areas
• Assist with yard cleanup, including organizing reels, removing debris, and keeping travel paths clear
• Communicate with supervisors and warehouse team members regarding orders, inventory, or material concerns
• Perform other warehouse and material-handling duties as assigned

Requirements

• Previous experience operating counterbalance forklifts and reach trucks
• Valid forklift certification or ability to complete required company training
• Previous warehouse, shipping, receiving, distribution, or material-handling experience
• Comfortable placing and retrieving products from elevated racking
• Able to read and follow shipping, receiving, and material-handling instructions
• Strong attention to detail when verifying products, quantities, labels, and locations
• Basic computer, scanner, or Warehouse Management System experience considered an asset
• Experience using Zebra scanners considered an asset
• Familiarity with wire, cable, reels, or similar materials considered an asset
• Able to work independently and as part of a team
• Reliable, punctual, and safety-focused

Work Conditions

• Busy warehouse and yard environment with regular forklift and material movement
• Regular standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting throughout the shift
• Operating counterbalance forklifts and reach trucks for extended periods
• Working around elevated racking and in narrow warehouse aisles
• Able to lift and handle materials weighing 50 lbs. or more as required
• Indoor and outdoor work in varying weather conditions
• Required PPE must be worn, including safety footwear, high-visibility clothing, gloves, and other designated protective equipment

We acknowledge that software used in our recruitment and selection process may have Artificial Intelligence components built in but confirm that all work assignment decisions are made by our expertly trained staff. The position advertised here is for an existing vacancy.