Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator and Production Technician Job Description This role combines night shift backup forklift operation with hands-on production work in the finals department. You will operate stand-up electric and sit-down propane forklifts to move materials throughout the shop and support production by assembling large industrial HVAC units using hand and power tools. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys a mix of equipment operation and mechanical assembly work in a modern, temperature-controlled facility. Responsibilities Operate stand-up electric and sit-down propane forklifts (up to 3,500 lbs capacity) safely and efficiently as a backup forklift operator on the night shift. Use forklifts to move fans, pallets, and other materials between departments and work areas throughout the shop. Transport and empty garbage bins and other waste containers using the forklift as needed. Support production in the finals department for the majority of the shift by assembling large industrial HVAC units. Use drills and other power tools to install doors, windows, handles, and related components onto HVAC units. Perform assembly and basic construction tasks, ensuring components are securely and accurately installed. Use an overhead crane occasionally to lift, move, or position larger components or assemblies safely. Follow production drawings, blueprints, or schematics as needed to complete assembly tasks correctly. Apply basic mechanical skills to troubleshoot minor issues and ensure proper fit and function of assembled parts. Maintain a clean and organized work area, including safe storage of tools, materials, and equipment. Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment and adherence to shop safety rules. Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production schedules and quality standards. Use basic computer technology as needed for production, documentation, or communication tasks. Perform other related duties in the shop as assigned to support overall production and material flow. Essential Skills Proven forklift operating experience with the ability to operate a forklift confidently from the first day. Experience operating sit-down propane forklifts. Experience operating stand-up electric forklifts. Previous production or manufacturing experience. Hands-on experience using drills and other power tools in an assembly or construction environment. Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic mechanical assembly tasks. Ability to follow instructions, drawings, or basic blueprints to complete assembly work. Basic computer knowledge and comfort using computer technology in a shop environment. Ability to work safely around overhead cranes and other material handling equipment. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship. Ability to work effectively on a night shift schedule. Capability to perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, and handling materials throughout the shift. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience with sheet metal work is a plus. Familiarity with assembly or construction environments is beneficial. Experience working with mild steel components is an asset. Ability to read and understand blueprints, schematics, or technical drawings is preferred. Comfort using a variety of hand and power tools in a production setting. Basic mathematics skills to support measurements and assembly tasks. Strong teamwork and communication skills in a collaborative shop environment. A safety-conscious mindset and willingness to follow established safety procedures. Why Work Here? The organization offers a comprehensive and supportive total rewards package designed to value your contribution and promote long-term stability. You can expect competitive pay with shift differential and a paid lunch, along with generous time-off benefits, including additional PTO after your first year and PTO/sick leave that rolls over from year to year. The benefits package includes employer-paid medical, dental, and life insurance, as well as paid holidays. The company invests in your well-being with reimbursements for gym memberships and work boots, cash safety awards, and opportunities to use the shop for your own home projects. You will also enjoy discounts on metal purchases, company-sponsored events, and a respectful, collaborative work environment where your safety, growth, and work-life balance are taken seriously. Work Environment The role is based in a large, temperature-controlled facility that produces custom HVAC units for commercial properties. You will work primarily on the night shift in a busy shop environment that uses forklifts, overhead cranes, and a variety of hand and power tools. The setting is industrial and production-focused, with frequent movement of materials and equipment between departments. You will spend part of your time operating forklifts and the remainder performing assembly work on large HVAC units in the finals department. The workplace emphasizes safety, collaboration, and respect, with access to shop equipment and materials as part of day-to-day operations Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cheney, WA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $21.44 - $22.51/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 Cheney,WA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 8, 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. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.