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Hi Lift Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Spencer, IA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 10lbs. * Occasionally required to lift and/or move up ... Safety equipment to include but not limited to a hi-vis safety vest or shirt, safety glasses ...

Forklift Operator

Spencer, IA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 10lbs. * Occasionally required to lift and/or move up ... Safety equipment to include but not limited to a hi-vis safety vest or shirt, safety glasses ...

Forklift Operator

Spencer, IA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 10lbs. * Occasionally required to lift and/or move up ... Safety equipment to include but not limited to a hi-vis safety vest or shirt, safety glasses ...

Forklift Operator

Spencer, IA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 10lbs. * Occasionally required to lift and/or move up ... Safety equipment to include but not limited to a hi-vis safety vest or shirt, safety glasses ...

Hilo Driver - Perishable

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$13.89 - $14.36/hr

The HiLo Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate, stack, and ... Lift and/or move up to 50 lbs Job Ref #:8fa5fd3a-9129-4d98-a518-495e06d71c2e Date Posted:2026-08-27

Warehouse and Facilities Associate

Ankeny, IA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Forklift operator certification in accordance with OSHA CFR 1910.178 a plus. MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ... Ability to regularly lift 50 pounds and more occasionally. * Must be able to bend, stretch, kneel ...

Hilo Driver

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$13.89 - $14.36/hr

The Hilo Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate, stack, and ... Lift and/or move up to 50 lbs Job Ref #:3af0fe14-3e4d-42b6-9429-0214e6cee3ae Date Posted:2026-08-27

Warehouse Associate

Ottumwa, IA ยท On-site

$15.50/hr

The product will be stacked according to the specified Ti/Hi at the client's direction. Physical ... The employee must regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds and frequently lift and move from 50 to ...

The product will be stacked according to the specified Ti/Hi at the client's direction. Physical ... The employee must regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds and frequently lift and move from 50 to ...

Load Controller C Shift

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents in the English language such as safety files, operating and ... The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 ...

Load Controller C Shift

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents in the English language such as safety files, operating and ... The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 ...

Warehouse Associate

Ottumwa, IA ยท On-site

$15.50/hr

The product will be stacked according to the specified Ti/Hi at the client's direction. Physical ... The employee must regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds and frequently lift and move from 50 to ...

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Hi Lift Operator information

What is a hi lift operator?

Hi Lift Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating high-lift machinery, such as forklifts or aerial lifts, to move, load, and unload materials in warehouses, construction sites, or industrial settings. Their main duties include ensuring the safe transport of goods, maintaining equipment, and adhering to safety regulations. Hi Lift Operators often need to be certified and trained in the proper use of lifting equipment. They play a crucial role in efficient material handling and workplace safety.

What are some common safety challenges faced by hi lift operators, and how are they addressed on the job?

Hi Lift Operators often encounter safety challenges such as navigating tight spaces, working in varying weather conditions, and handling heavy loads at significant heights. To address these, operators undergo rigorous safety training, follow strict operational protocols, and regularly inspect their equipment before use. Additionally, ongoing communication with ground crews and adherence to site-specific safety guidelines help minimize risks and ensure a safe working environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hi lift operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hi Lift Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment controls, load management systems, and possession of relevant certifications such as OSHA forklift certification are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure safe, efficient material handling and prevent workplace accidents in industrial and construction environments.

What is the difference between Hi Lift Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectHi Lift OperatorForklift Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a Hi Lift certificationRequires forklift certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, warehouses, industrial settingsWarehouses, manufacturing plants, distribution centers
Job DutiesOperating high-lift equipment for lifting and moving materialsOperating forklifts to load, unload, and transport goods
Industry UsageConstruction, heavy industryLogistics, warehousing, manufacturing

Both Hi Lift Operators and Forklift Operators operate heavy equipment to move materials, but they differ mainly in the type of machinery used and work environments. Hi Lift Operators focus on high-lift equipment often used in construction, while Forklift Operators work primarily with forklifts in warehouses and distribution centers. Certifications are required for both roles, making them similar in credential requirements but distinct in operational focus.

Infographic showing various Hi Lift Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Forklift Operator

Spencer, IA โ€ข On-site

Southshore
11 - 50 employees

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Forklift Operator

Southshore is an ISO 9001:2015 certified third party logistics provider delivering cost effective integrated logistics and outsourcing supply chain solutions to businesses in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Nebraska, and Iowa.

The forklift operator plays a critical role in the safe, efficient, and accurate movement of goods within the regional distribution center. The forklift operator follows and adheres to the Southshore Companies standard operating procedures to deliver best-in-class customer service while maintaining a high standard of operational excellence. The forklift operator is an empowered team member responsible for upholding the culture and values of the company.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Successfully operates a power industrial forklift by moving levers, pressing pedals, and controlling lifting apparatus.
  • Perform daily forklift inspections and follow forklift trucks to transport, stack, and organize products within the RDC.
  • Safely load and unload trucks (receive/process), put-away and pick product, and maintain warehouse organization and cleanliness.
  • Ensure accurate and timely movement of product to meet operational goals using scanning equipment.
  • Assist in inventory management by following Southshore Companies policy and procedures.
  • Identify, report, and fix damaged inventory and shortages throughout the day.
  • Adhere to all safety guidelines and protocols while operating forklift trucks.
  • Replaces forklift propane tank and/or charge batteries, as needed.
  • Report any equipment malfunctions and participate in regular safety training.
  • Ensure the integrity of products during handling and transportation.
  • Collaborate with team members to meet quality standards.
  • Maintain clear and effective communication with team members and supervisors.
  • Inspect the ceiling, sidewalls and floor damager before loading and unloading any trailer from an outside carrier. Notify the driver and the supervisor or manager of any pre-existing damage.
  • Performs cleanup of the shipping and receiving areas at the end of the shift or as required.
  • Performs all duties in accordance with Southshore Companies safety manual.
  • Regular (punctual and dependable) attendance is an essential function of this job.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Education & Experience:
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 1 or more years proven experience as a Lift Truck Operator (LTO) working in a similar industry (distribution warehouse) is preferred; additional education may be substituted for years of work experience.
  • Powered Industrial Forklift Truck License (we will train and provide certification). Prior license/certification is highly preferred.
  • Prior SAP scanning experience is a plus.
  • Inventory control experience is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Ability to read, write, count, and perform basic math skills of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
  • Requires initiative and ability to work independently and in a team setting.
  • Knowledge of safety regulations and guidelines for material handling equipment.
  • Ability to talk, listen, understand, and follow directions.
  • Ability to set priorities and flexibly to reset priorities in a changing environment.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet productivity targets.
  • Ability to pay attention to details and accuracy in inventory control.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Good organizational skills.
  • Mechanical aptitude skills are required.
  • Knowledge and experience using forklift SAP inventory equipment scanning system.
  • Computer skills are preferred.
  • Ability to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to work overtime and some Saturdays as needed by the business (especially during peak-season - January through April)
Work Environment & Physical Demands:
  • Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 10lbs.
  • Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 60lbs.
  • Regularly required to talk and/or hear to communicate with co-workers, supervisors, managers and/or truck drivers.
  • Manual dexterity is required for operating machinery.
  • Frequently required to bend, twist, turn, kneel, and/or squat.
  • Frequently required to stand and/or walk on the concrete warehouse floor.
  • Frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls.
  • Frequently required to reach with arms and hands.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Must be able to work in various weather conditions and tolerate exposure to typical noises and smells associated with a warehouse.
  • Safety equipment to include but not limited to a hi-vis safety vest or shirt, safety glasses, gloves, closed toe shoes, long sleeves, long pants, above ankle socks and masks (as needed).
  • Our facility handles soybeans. Applicants with soy allergies should be aware of potential exposure in the work environment.
Pay:
  • $17.25 per hour
Shift:
  • 7AM-3:30PM April-November
  • 5:45am-2:15PM + OT November-April
  • 2PM-10:30PM + OT November-April
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse and Child
  • 401(k) + 4% Company Match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Pet Insurance
  • EAP Program

Southshore Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.