Sheet Metal Material Handler / Forklift Operator

Sheet Metal Material Handler / Forklift Operator Location: Richmond, VA Job Type: Contract-to-Hire Starting Pay: From $20.00 per hour (higher pay available based on experience) Shift: First Shift | Monday-Friday | 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Overtime: Weekly overtime opportunities available

Job Summary

We are seeking a dependable and safety-conscious Sheet Metal Material Handler / Forklift Operator to support our manufacturing and fabrication operations. In this role, you will be responsible for pulling materials for production, operating a sit-down forklift, loading and unloading trucks, organizing inventory, and ensuring materials are delivered accurately and efficiently throughout the facility. The ideal candidate has experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or metal fabrication environment and is committed to maintaining a safe, organized, and productive workplace.

Sheet Metal Material Handler / Forklift Operator Location: Richmond, VA Job Type: Contract-to-Hire Starting Pay: From $20.00 per hour (higher pay available based on experience) Shift: First Shift | Monday-Friday | 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Overtime: Weekly overtime opportunities available

Job Summary

We are seeking a dependable and safety-conscious Sheet Metal Material Handler / Forklift Operator to support our manufacturing and fabrication operations. In this role, you will be responsible for pulling materials for production, operating a sit-down forklift, loading and unloading trucks, organizing inventory, and ensuring materials are delivered accurately and efficiently throughout the facility. The ideal candidate has experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or metal fabrication environment and is committed to maintaining a safe, organized, and productive workplace.

Responsibilities

• Pull sheet metal, plate, tubing, and structural materials based on work orders and production schedules.
• Operate a sit-down forklift to transport raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished products throughout the facility.
• Load and unload flatbed and enclosed trailers safely and efficiently.
• Verify material type, size, quantity, and specifications before delivering materials to production.
• Supply materials to fabrication areas, including laser tables, press brakes, shears, saws, and other production equipment.
• Organize warehouse inventory and maintain accurate material locations.
• Perform daily forklift inspections and report maintenance concerns.
• Assist with inventory counts and maintain inventory accuracy.
• Safely handle heavy metal materials while preventing product damage.
• Work closely with production, shipping, and receiving teams to maintain workflow.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following OSHA and company safety standards.
• Perform other warehouse and material handling duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Experience operating a sit-down forklift in a manufacturing, warehouse, or fabrication environment preferred.
• Experience pulling materials using work orders, cut lists, or production schedules.
• Ability to safely handle sheet metal, plate, tubing, and structural steel.
• Ability to read a tape measure and identify material sizes and specifications.
• Experience loading and unloading flatbed trailers preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to verify material accuracy.
• Basic computer or inventory system experience is a plus.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in a physically demanding industrial environment.
• High school diploma or GED preferred. Preferred Experience
• Experience in a sheet metal, structural steel, or fabrication shop.
• Forklift certification or willingness to become certified.
• Experience operating overhead cranes is a plus.
• Knowledge of inventory control and warehouse operations.
• Familiarity with fabrication equipment such as lasers, press brakes, shears, and saws. Why Join Us?
• Contract-to-hire opportunity with long-term potential
• Weekly overtime opportunities
• Stable first-shift schedule
• Collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to grow your skills in manufacturing and fabrication