Forklift Operator

Company: Aerotek
Location: Des Moines
Posted on: February 18, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Job Title: Forklift Operator Job Description We are seeking a skilled forklift operator to efficiently handle inbound and outbound shipments using sit-down forklifts. This role involves operating Nissan forklifts equipped with multiple levers for tilt, up/down, side to side, and adjustments, as well as a clutch pedal for faster fork movement. Familiarity with long forks is essential to safely transport a variety of containers and pallets. The operator will also be responsible for loading trailers, stacking containers, and using scanners and Microsoft Word or Excel for tracking products. Responsibilities Operate sit-down forklifts to manage inbound and outbound shipments. Safely handle and transport various sizes of totes, large plastic containers, metal containers, pallets, and lids. Efficiently stack containers into trailers and tight spaces. Push outbound shipments, load trailers, and ensure even stacking of containers. Utilize scanners for product tracking and occasionally use Microsoft Word or Excel. Assist with general warehouse duties including sweeping, stacking, cleaning, and organizing. Essential Skills Experience with sit-down forklifts, specifically 1,000 hours within the past 5 years. Forklift experience within the last year. 1 years of shipping and receiving experience. Ability to read and speak English. Strong communication skills. Reliable transportation. Additional Skills & Qualifications Longevity on a resume is valued. Why Work Here? This position offers year-round employment, with increased activity during spring and summer, providing opportunities for skill development and advancement. Employees have the chance to learn equipment operation and perform repairs, enhancing their abilities. Career advancement is possible, as evidenced by past placements who have become floor leads. Work Environment The role is based in a new warehouse located in north Des Moines. Expect a fast-paced environment with frequent forklift activity. The position requires comfort with quick-paced work and necessitates wearing steel-toed boots, along with provided PPE such as vests, safety glasses, and gloves. The shift is Monday through Friday, 6:00 am to 2:00 pm, with occasional mandatory Saturdays, rotating every other Saturday. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Des Moines, IA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $17.00 - $17.00/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 Des Moines,IA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Feb 23, 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. Company Description 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 meet 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 in solving 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. Company Description 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 meet 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 in solving 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.

Keywords: Aerotek, Ames , Forklift Operator, Logistics, Transportation & Drivers , Des Moines, Iowa