Sheet Metal Puller / Forklift Operator

Job description

### Sheet Metal Puller / Forklift Operator **Location:** Richmond, VA **Job Type:** Contract-to-Hire **Shift:** 1st Shift | Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM **Pay Rate:** Starting at $22.00/hour (Higher pay available depending on experience) **Overtime:** Weekly OT opportunities available ### Job Summary We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused **Sheet Metal Puller / Forklift Operator** to support material handling and production operations. This position will pull materials for production, operate sit-down forklifts, load and unload trucks, organize inventory, and ensure materials are delivered accurately and on time. ### Essential Duties & Responsibilities - Pull sheet metal, plate, and structural materials according to work orders, cut lists, and production schedules. - Operate **sit-down forklifts** to safely transport raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished products. - Load and unload flatbed and enclosed trailers using forklifts; secure and stage materials for production or shipment. - Verify material type, size, quantity, and heat numbers against work orders and packing lists. - Deliver materials to production areas including **laser tables, press brakes, shears, saws, and fabrication stations**. - Organize inventory and maintain accurate material locations throughout the warehouse and shop. - Perform daily forklift inspections and report equipment maintenance needs. - Assist with inventory counts and maintain accurate inventory records. - Safely handle sheet metal, plate, tubing, and structural steel while preventing product damage. - Work closely with production, shipping, and receiving teams to maintain material availability and workflow efficiency. - Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following company safety policies and OSHA regulations. - Perform other warehouse and material handling duties as assigned. ### Qualifications - Previous experience operating **sit-down forklifts** in a manufacturing, warehouse, or metal fabrication environment preferred. - Experience pulling orders from work orders, cut lists, or production schedules. - Ability to safely move heavy sheet metal, plate, tubing, and structural steel. - Ability to read tape measures and identify material sizes and specifications. - Experience loading and unloading flatbed trailers preferred. - Strong attention to detail and ability to verify material accuracy before delivery to production. - Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. - Basic computer or inventory system experience is a plus. - Strong communication and organizational skills. - Ability to lift up to **50 pounds** and work in a physically demanding industrial environment. - Commitment to workplace safety and quality standards. - High school diploma or GED preferred. ### Preferred Qualifications - Previous experience in a **structural steel, sheet metal, or fabrication shop**. - Forklift certification or ability to become certified. - Experience using **overhead cranes** is a plus. - Knowledge of metal identification, inventory control, and warehouse operations. - Experience working around fabrication equipment such as **lasers, press brakes, shears, and saws**.