Job Information
Aerotek Forklift Operator And Material Handler in Ashland, Virginia
Job Title: Forklift Operator and Material Handler
Job Description
This role supports a fast-paced manufacturing operation by safely operating forklifts and material handling equipment, assisting with machine setup and operation, and ensuring consistent product quality. You will work closely with machine operators on multiple production lines, handle raw materials and finished goods, perform basic equipment cleaning and preventative maintenance, and follow established safety and quality procedures. The position offers cross-training on various machines and the opportunity to build strong industrial and mechanical skills.
Responsibilities
Assist machine operators in setting up and operating production equipment, including extruders, laminating machines, and potentially press and slitter machines.
Monitor machines during operation to maintain consistent quality, throughput, and product specifications.
Load raw materials onto production lines and remove finished products in a safe and efficient manner.
Operate forklifts and clamp trucks to move, stage, and store materials and finished goods, following all safety guidelines.
Perform routine cleaning and basic preventative maintenance on machinery to minimize downtime and extend equipment life.
Inspect products for defects or irregularities and promptly report issues to supervisors or appropriate team members.
Maintain accurate production records, including counts, quality checks, and any downtime or issues encountered.
Follow all safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures where applicable, and maintain a clean and organized work area.
Support general production tasks such as assembly, packing, picking, and packaging as needed to meet production goals.
Use basic hand tools and mechanical aptitude to support minor adjustments or simple repairs under guidance.
Work collaboratively with team members across multiple lines and departments to ensure production targets are met or exceeded.
Ensure that products and services meet or exceed customer expectations through adherence to quality standards and procedures.
Participate in cross-training on multiple machines and processes to provide flexible coverage across shifts and lines.
Essential Skills
Previous industrial or manufacturing experience, including experience as an assistant or helper in a production environment.
Hands-on machine operating experience in a manufacturing setting.
Knowledge of basic machinery functions and production line processes.
Ability to operate or learn to operate forklifts and clamp trucks safely; training is available.
Basic computer skills to enter production data and follow electronic work instructions.
Basic math skills for measurements, counts, and simple calculations.
Proficiency in verbal and written communication in the English language.
Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and support coworkers across multiple lines.
Capability to lift approximately 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks throughout the shift.
Comfort working in an industrial environment involving machine operating, assembly, general labor, general production, packing, picking, and packaging.
Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with using hand tools and basic mechanical practices.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience operating extruder, laminating, press, or slitter machines in a manufacturing environment.
Experience with forklift, clamp truck, or other powered industrial trucks.
Experience using RF scanners for inventory, picking, or packing tasks.
Demonstrated history of learning and applying new information, processes, and technologies.
Strong attention to detail for quality inspection and accurate recordkeeping.
Commitment to preventative maintenance practices and equipment care.
Ability to adapt to cross-training on multiple machines and production lines.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ashland, VA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $16.00 - $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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Ashland,VA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026.
About Aerotek:
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 and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.