Low Income Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

As a skilled Warehouse laborer - PECO pallet repair, you are at the heart of our production process, responsible for the physical restoration of PECO wooden pallets to ensure they are safe for global supply chain use. This is a high-energy, manual labor role where you will use industrial nail guns and saws to remove damaged boards and replace them with quality lumber. You will be tasked with making split-second decisions on pallet integrity, ensuring every unit you rebuild meets strict durability and quality standards. If you take pride in working with your hands, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are motivated by a pay structure that rewards your speed and accuracy, this is the position for you.

Pay & Performance

• Starting Pay: $22.00 per hour
• Top Performers: Earn up to $30.00 per hour

Your weekly production is measured by Repairs Per Hour (RPH). The more pallets you repair efficiently and safely, the higher your hourly pay band becomes.

Our Story... So Far

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Dallas, Texas, PLA is a national supply chain solutions provider offering Pallet Management Services, 3PL Services, Reverse Logistics Services, and Freight Brokerage & Transportation Management Services, handling over 115 million pallets per year for over 1,500 customers. Now one of the largest pallet manufacturing and recycling companies in the United States, PLA has over 76 facilities, employing upwards of 3500 employees across 23 states, and is still looking for opportunities for growth, both organically and through acquisition.

Here's What We Offer:

• Daily Pay Option – Access your earnings before payday
• Weekly Pay – Get paid on time, every week
• PTO (Paid Time Off)
• Full Benefits: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance – 3 medical plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield with low weekly premiums starting at $28.75
• Health Savings Account (HSA) – Company contribution up to $750 annually with tax-advantaged savings
• 401(k) retirement plan featuring up to a 4% employer match, eligibility the first of the month after 90 days, and access to a Financial Wellness Consultant.
• Flexible Benefits – Multiple plan options to fit your needs and budget
• Prescription Drug Coverage – Low copays starting at $10 for generic medications
• FREE Life Insurance & AD&D – Basic coverage provided at no cost upon employment
• Vision Benefits – $10 eye exams and $150 frame allowance through Superior Vision by MetLife starting at $1.46 per week
• Dental Coverage – 100% preventive care coverage with MetLife plans starting at $5.76 per week
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability (STD) – Income replacement up to 60% of weekly covered earnings (max $1,500 weekly) for a non-work-related injury or illness.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free and confidential support for work stress, grief, legal/financial issues, and more.
• Additional Voluntary Benefits – MetLife Legal and Identity Theft Services and Pet Insurance with ASPCA.
• LifeMart employee discounts (through ADP) on everyday stuff and larger purchases (travel, electronics, entertainment, and more)
• Dell Employee Purchase Program (EPP) discounts available for personal use.

What You'll Be Doing:

As a Skilled Warehouse Laborer - PECO Pallet Repair, your key responsibilities will include:

• Inspecting PECO pallets for damage, wear, and structural issues.
• Using tools like nail guns and power saws to repair pallets.
• Replacing boards, reinforcing weak areas, and removing/replacing nails.
• Following all safety procedures and wearing proper PPE.
• Performing routine maintenance on tools and equipment.
• Collaborating with team members to meet daily production goals.
• Maintaining a clean and organized work area.

What We're Looking For:

• 2+ years of experience in manual labor or a similar field.
• Familiarity with tools such as nail guns, power saws, and/or hand tools.
• Ability to stand, bend, and lift for 8 to 10 hours.
• Willingness to work in a warehouse environment (dust, noise, changing temperatures).
• Reliable transportation and availability for overtime as needed.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and lift for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Capable of repeatedly lifting and moving PECO pallets (approx. 65-68 lbs) and materials.
• Requires good manual dexterity and tactile sensitivity for inspecting pallet condition.
• Ability to hear and understand verbal instructions and safety alarms in a warehouse environment.
• Excellent vision (including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus) for inspecting pallets and observing surroundings for safety.

Work Environment:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee will primarily work in a warehouse environment. This may include exposure to dust, fluctuating temperatures (hot and cold), and moderate to high noise levels. Steel-toed boots and other personal protective equipment (PPE) will be required.

PLA and its Family of Companies is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

If you need assistance or accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request by contacting HR. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized because of such a request.