Job Title: Forklift and Machine Operator
Job Description This role operates orienteer machines and a sit-down forklift to safely move materials throughout the plant, stage rolls of product for production, and troubleshoot equipment issues to keep manufacturing lines running efficiently.
Responsibilities
• Operate orienteer machines in accordance with established procedures to support continuous production.
• Drive and operate a sit-down forklift to move materials and products safely around the plant.
• Stage rolls of product at designated locations to ensure production lines receive materials on time.
• Use an RF scanner to track, locate, and record materials and finished products accurately.
• Monitor machinery during operation and identify irregularities, malfunctions, or performance issues.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues on the line and take appropriate steps to resolve or escalate problems.
• Handle and lift materials weighing up to 75 pounds as part of daily tasks.
• Follow all plant safety procedures and guidelines while operating equipment and handling materials.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area to support safe and efficient operations.
• Collaborate with a small, tight-knit team to meet production goals and support smooth shift handoffs.
Essential Skills • Proven experience operating a sit-down forklift in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience as a machine operator or in a similar production equipment role.
• Ability to use an RF scanner for inventory tracking and material movement.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot basic equipment and line issues.
• Capability to lift and handle up to 75 pounds safely and repeatedly.
• Comfort working in an industrial, non–climate-controlled environment.
• Commitment to following safety procedures and operational guidelines.
Additional Skills & Qualifications • Previous experience operating orienteer or similar production machines.
• Experience working on night shifts or in a rotating schedule environment.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to work effectively in a small, close-knit group.
• Attention to detail when staging materials and documenting inventory movements.
Why Work Here? Employees enjoy a 2-2-3 schedule that provides a three-day weekend every other week, supporting work-life balance. The team operates in a small, tight-knit environment where colleagues support one another and build strong working relationships. Benefits include health and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan, paid time off, and paid holidays, offering stability and long-term security.
Work Environment
The role is based in an industrial plant that is not climate controlled, so temperatures can vary with the seasons. Work involves operating orienteer machines and a sit-down forklift, using RF scanners, and handling materials on the production floor. The schedule follows a 2-2-3 pattern, which may include night shifts and provides a three-day weekend every other week. The environment is collaborative, with a small team working closely together to maintain safe, efficient operations.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Athens, GA.
Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $21.50 - $22.50/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 Athens,GA.
Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 26, 2026.
About Aerotek
Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.
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.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
$21.5-$22.5 per hour Employment Type: CONTRACTOR