Forklift Operator - Starting at $20.10/hr.

Graham Packaging Company is hiring a Forklift Operator in Loma Linda, MO, starting at $20.10/hr. This dual-role position involves safely operating forklifts, handling materials, and supporting production in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Responsibilities include supplying production lines, transporting finished goods, and maintaining safety standards. The role requires teamwork and a focus on safety and efficiency, with shifts scheduled in a rotating 12-hour format.
Company StatementGraham Packaging is a people, planet and values-based company and a leader in sustainable packaging manufacturing. From the kitchen to the laundry room, Graham Packaging is part of your everyday life. For employees at Graham, our Blue Culture is part of their everyday lives, too. In other words, Blue is how we do things here. At Graham, we are united by a clear vision. We know our part and help those around us know theirs, encouraging one another to continuously improve. We create a safe, challenging environment to innovate by supporting creative ideas and new ways of thinking. We take the initiative to cultivate our individual growth and help others do the same, while keeping ourselves and one another accountable. And we actively promote cooperation, collaboration, integrity and respect across regions and teams to foster an engaged, diverse and connected workforce. We value our employees, and a Blue Culture allows for the most rewarding employee experience as part of the Graham family. Blue is how we feel about what we do—together—to create a better tomorrow. Working at Graham means you lead constructively with clear goals, use diverse thinking to drive excellence, accountability, innovation, as well as demonstrating collaboration, embracing learning, and taking action for continuous improvement and growth.
Overview
Graham Packaging Company is seeking dependable, safety-focused team members for our Forklift Operator / Packaging Specialist role in Joplin, MO.





B Shift | Day Shift | 6:45 AM – 7:30 PM | Rotating 12-Hour Schedule





This is a dual-role position that combines forklift operation, material handling, and production support in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.


If you enjoy staying active, working with equipment, supporting production teams, and being part of a company that values safety and teamwork, we encourage you to apply.


Responsibilities
This role is responsible for safely operating forklifts, supplying production lines with materials, moving finished goods to warehouse storage, and supporting packaging operations as needed. Team members in this role play a key part in keeping production running efficiently.


Forklift / Material Handling

Safely operate forklifts to move raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods
Supply production lines with pallets, corrugated cases, dividers, slip sheets, glue, and other materials
Remove finished product from lines and transport to staging, stretch wrap, or warehouse storage
Load and unload trailers as needed
Store materials neatly and accurately in designated warehouse locations
Complete daily forklift safety inspections and battery checks
Change batteries and maintain battery watering procedures when needed

Production / Packaging Support

Assist production team members with breaks and lunches
Support packaging lines by keeping materials stocked and production flowing
Set up rework, hold product, and special packaging requests as directed
Visually inspect pallets and packaging for quality, damage, and accuracy
Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas

Documentation / Communication

Complete required paperwork accurately and legibly
Track material usage, product movement, and inventory transactions
Communicate shortages, damaged materials, low inventory, or operational issues to leadership
Assist with cycle counts and physical inventories

Qualifications
Minimum of 1 year forklift experience preferred.


Forklift Operators are required to interact with other managers, employees, vendors, and customers. Therefore, the following skills and proficiencies are also essential requirements of the position:



Prior forklift experience preferred (training may be provided for qualified candidates)
Manufacturing, warehouse, or production experience preferred
Ability to work safely in a fast-paced industrial environment
Ability to lift, bend, stand, walk, and work a 12-hour shift
Strong attendance and dependability
Ability to work well with teammates and supervisors
Basic reading, writing, and documentation skills

Compensation StatementThe expected salary range for the position described in this posting is made in accordance with the legal mandates of certain jurisdictions within the United States. The final agreed-upon compensation is based on individual qualifications and experience.
Benefits StatementBenefits include medical, dental, vision and basic life insurance. Employees are able to enroll in the company’s 401K Employee Saving Plan and may participate in its Employee Wellness Program. Employees will also receive paid time off in accordance with company policy and state law requirements.
EEO DisclaimerGraham Packaging is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, religion, creed, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.