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Cold Storage Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator - Cold Storage Warehouse

Avon, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Forklift Operator - Cold Storage Warehouse Department: Warehouse Location: Avon, NY Reports To: Warehouse Supervisor Union: Teamsters 118 Position Summary The Kraft Heinz Company is currently seeking ...

The Cold Storage Forklift Operator is a self-driven/self-motivated individual capable of working proficiently, both independently and as part of a team. The successful individual must have a passion ...

3rd Shift: Cold Storage Freight Handlers PFP Logistics is looking for a Cold Storage Freight ... Loading and Unloading, Equipment Operators, Order Selection, Pallet Re-Stack, Labeling, and ...

Janitorial Cold Storage

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Janitorial Cold Storage, Ideal person will report to the Warehouse Manager, the Sanitation person ... operating procedures * Cleans glass entrance doors and windows * Vacuums all carpeted areas

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* Dedicated Cold Storage Picker with hands-on experience in freezer and cooler operations. * Highly skilled in operating sit-down and stand-up forklifts, ensuring accurate order fulfillment and ...

Do you have previous experience working in cold storage? A growing company that produces fresh ... Operators! They're looking for people with at least six months of recent stand-up forklift ...

Forklift Operator

El Mirage, AZ · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

COMPANY OVERVIEW At Arcadia Cold Storage and Logistics, our mission is to design and deploy modern ... WAREHOUSE OPERATOR I * 0-2 years of warehouse experience. Cold storage warehouse preferred but not ...

Forklift Operator

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

About Agile Cold Storage Agile Cold Storage is a privately held provider of automated and ... As a Forklift Operator at Agile Cold Storage - Buffalo, NY, you will play a crucial role in ...

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Cold Storage Operator information

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How much do cold storage operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cold storage operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cold storage operator?

Cold storage operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining facilities where perishable goods, such as food products or pharmaceuticals, are stored at low temperatures to preserve their quality and safety. Their duties include monitoring temperature controls, ensuring inventory is correctly stored and retrieved, and following safety and hygiene protocols. Cold storage operators often use specialized equipment and technology to handle goods efficiently while minimizing spoilage or contamination.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cold storage operator?

To thrive as a Cold Storage Operator, you need knowledge of warehouse operations, inventory management, and safe food-handling practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), forklifts, pallet jacks, and temperature monitoring equipment is essential for daily tasks. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong organizational skills help ensure efficient workflow and product integrity. These competencies are vital for maintaining product safety and quality while supporting smooth logistics within temperature-controlled environments.

What are some common challenges faced by cold storage operators and how can they be addressed?

Cold Storage Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict temperature controls, handling heavy or bulky items in cold environments, and ensuring proper inventory management. To address these, operators use specialized insulated clothing, follow safety protocols to prevent cold-related injuries, and utilize technology like warehouse management systems for efficient tracking. Team communication and regular equipment checks are also essential for preventing issues and ensuring smooth operations.

What is the difference between Cold Storage Operator vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectCold Storage OperatorWarehouse Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, refrigeration trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, general warehouse safety training
Work EnvironmentCold storage facilities, refrigerated areasGeneral warehouse, storage areas
Industry UsageFood, pharmaceuticals, perishable goodsVarious industries including retail, manufacturing
Job FocusOperating refrigeration and cold storage equipmentGeneral handling, stocking, and shipping

The Cold Storage Operator specializes in managing refrigeration systems and working within cold environments, focusing on maintaining proper storage conditions. In contrast, a Warehouse Worker performs broader tasks like stocking, picking, and shipping goods in general warehouse settings. Both roles are essential in logistics but differ mainly in environment and specific responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Cold Storage Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Cold Storage Operator job openings:

What states have the most Cold Storage Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cold Storage Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cold Storage Operator jobs?

For Cold Storage Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cold Storage Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Forklift Operator - Cold Storage Warehouse

Avon, NY • On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Kraft Heinz rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

199th of 445 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Description
Forklift Operator - Cold Storage Warehouse
Department: Warehouse
Location: Avon, NY
Reports To: Warehouse Supervisor
Union: Teamsters 118
Position Summary
The Kraft Heinz Company is currently seeking a Forklift Operator - Cold Storage Warehouse to work at our food processing facility in Avon, NY. This position is responsible for safely operating forklifts, scissor lifts, and material handling equipment to move, store, load, unload, and inventory finished products while supporting efficient warehouse operations. The Forklift Operator maintains compliance with safety, quality, food safety, inventory control, and GMP requirements while working in cold storage environments.
Basic Purpose
To safely and efficiently transport, store, load, unload, and inventory finished products and warehouse materials while maintaining inventory accuracy, product traceability, and compliance with warehouse safety, food safety, and quality standards.
Responsibilities
Essential Job Functions
  • Acquire and maintain a valid forklift license.
  • Safely operate forklifts and material handling equipment.
  • Transport finished product pallet loads from staging areas to designated storage locations.
  • Load and unload trucks safely and efficiently.
  • Transport empty pallets to pallet storage and stacking locations.
  • Operate palletizer equipment.
  • Utilize warehouse computer systems to maintain inventory records.
  • Maintain inventory accuracy and product traceability.
  • Support production and warehouse operations through timely movement of materials.
  • Assist with inventory counts and warehouse audits.
  • Maintain warehouse housekeeping standards.
  • Follow all warehouse procedures and standard operating practices.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

Safety Responsibilities
  • Follow all Kraft Heinz safety policies and procedures.
  • Safely operate powered industrial equipment.
  • Complete required forklift inspections.
  • Wear and maintain required PPE.
  • Report unsafe conditions, behaviors, and equipment immediately.
  • Follow warehouse traffic and material handling safety requirements.
  • Support Kraft Heinz's safety-first culture.

Sanitation Responsibilities
  • Maintain a clean and organized warehouse environment.
  • Support GMP and housekeeping standards.
  • Assist with warehouse sanitation activities as required.
  • Ensure adherence to food safety and storage requirements.

Quality Assurance Responsibilities
  • Maintain accurate inventory and product traceability.
  • Ensure proper handling and storage of finished products.
  • Support food safety, GMP, and quality programs.
  • Communicate inventory discrepancies and product concerns promptly.
  • Participate in QRMP and audit activities as required.

Skills Profile
Technical Skills
  • Forklift operation
  • Material handling
  • Inventory management
  • Warehouse operations
  • Product traceability
  • Shipping and receiving
  • Warehouse computer systems
  • Inventory documentation

Professional Competencies
  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Attention to Detail
  • Accountability
  • Reliability
  • Adaptability
  • Time Management
  • Safety Awareness

Physical Requirements
  • Standing up to 12 hours a day
  • Lifting/pushing/pulling up to 50 lbs. including overhead work
  • Repetitive motion with hands
  • Kneeling
  • Twisting
  • Squatting
  • Climbing stairs
  • Working in hot and cold environments (Lunchables 40 degrees F, Cool Whip 90 degrees/ -35 degrees F, Cold Storage 0 degrees F)
  • Working in loud environments over 85 decibels
  • Able to give and understand instructions and hold conversations in a manufacturing environment as well as an office or classroom setting
  • Must operate a computer and other standard office equipment

Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain forklift certification.
  • History of safe work practices.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Basic computer proficiency.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior warehouse experience.
  • Shipping and receiving experience.
  • Inventory control experience.
  • Previous forklift operation experience.
  • Food manufacturing experience.

Working Conditions
This position works in a warehouse and cold storage environment and may be exposed to:
  • Sub-zero freezer temperatures
  • Forklift traffic
  • Moving mechanical equipment
  • High storage racking systems
  • Loading dock operations
  • Variable temperatures
  • High noise levels
  • Production and warehouse environments

Additional Information
  • Applicants must be willing to work any shift, including weekends and holidays.
  • Overtime may be required based on business needs.
  • Employees are expected to comply with all federal, state, local, company, safety, quality, food safety, and sanitation requirements.

Benefits Overview
In addition to competitive pay, Kraft Heinz offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, financial future, and personal well-being, including:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • HRA and Optional Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401(k) with Company Match and Additional Core Contribution
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Pet Insurance and Voluntary Benefits
  • Maven Family Support Resources
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • Shift Differentials and Overtime Opportunities
  • Growth and Advancement Opportunities

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements, plan terms, and applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement provisions.
Compensation Overview
  • Starting Pay: $26.98
  • Second Shift Differential: $1.25/hour
  • Third Shift Differential: $2.50/hour

About Us
Kraft Heinz is a global food company with a delicious heritage. With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun and quality to every meal table we touch. We're on a mission to redefine not only our own business, but the global food industry. A consumer obsession and unexpected partnerships fuel our progress as we drive innovation across every part of our company.
Around the world, our people are connected by a culture of ownership, agility, and endless curiosity. We also believe in being good humans who are working to improve our company, communities, and planet. We're proud of where we've been and even more thrilled about where we're headed as we nourish the world and own the future of food.
Why Us
We grow our people to grow our business. We champion great people who bring ambition, curiosity, and commitment to the table as the guardians of our beloved and nostalgic brands. Good isn't good enough. We choose greatness every day by challenging the ordinary and making bold decisions while celebrating our wins and our failures as we work together to lead the future of food.
Challenging the status quo takes talent. We invest in your purpose and potential by developing skills and cultivating strengths that leave a legacy on our business and a lasting impact on your career. Because great people make great companies, and we're growing something great here at Kraft Heinz.
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Recognition, Training
Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability
Location(s)
#INDMFGH
Avon Plant
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com

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