Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
Job: Forklift Operator
Location: 51 Robinson St North Tonawanda, NY 14120
Pay: $22.38 an hour plus shift differential ($0.50 for 2nd shift & $0.65 for 3rd shift). After the training & probationary period, pay will bump up to $24.65
Shift: Must be flexible to work any shift.
Overtime: Must be flexible to work daily and weekend/Saturday Overtime
Union Plant
The opportunity:
Join our team as a Forklift Operator (Checker/Loader) and play a critical role in keeping our operation moving. In this position, you'll operate industrial forklifts to safely load and unload customer shipments, ensure orders are accurate, and help deliver quality products on time. As part of a fast-paced manufacturing and shipping team, you'll contribute to the loading of up to 25 trailers each day and help maintain the high standards our customers expect.
This is more than just a forklift driving role. You'll be a key member of the operation, responsible for inventory accuracy, shipment verification, and supporting efficient warehouse and shipping processes. You'll also have opportunities to expand your skills through cross-training and collaboration with other operators and team members.
How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:
- Conduct and document daily pre-shift forklift inspections to ensure equipment is safe and fully operational.
- Safely transport, stage, and move raw materials, finished goods, and production supplies throughout the facility.
- Load and unload trailers efficiently while meeting shipping schedules, customer requirements, and department productivity standards.
- Verify product counts, quantities, descriptions, and quality to ensure inventory and shipment accuracy.
- Use RF scanners and warehouse management systems to process receipts, shipments, returns, and inventory transactions.
- Support production operations by delivering materials and removing finished goods in a timely manner.
- Properly palletize, secure, stretch-wrap, and prepare products for storage or shipment.
- Complete all shipping, receiving, inventory, and material movement documentation accurately and on time.
- Perform routine inventory audits, cycle counts, and stock verification activities.
- Safely replace propane tanks and/or change batteries on powered industrial equipment as required.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with company and regulatory standards.
- Help prevent product damage by following proper material handling, storage, and transportation procedures.
- Collaborate with team members across shipping, warehouse, and production departments to support operational goals.
- Assist in other areas of the operation and perform additional duties as assigned.
What You Need to Succeed:
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Valid driver's license required.
- Previous forklift experience in a fast-paced manufacturing, warehouse, or distribution environment preferred.
- Current or recent forklift certification is a plus; paid training and certification opportunities are available for qualified candidates.
- Mechanical aptitude with the ability to identify basic equipment issues and report or troubleshoot concerns preferred.
- Ability to learn and effectively use warehouse management systems, RF scanners, and other proprietary software.
- Basic English reading, writing, and comprehension skills needed to understand work instructions, safety procedures, shipping documents, and operating guidelines.
- Strong mathematical skills, including the ability to perform basic calculations involving decimals, fractions, and measurements.
- Ability to accurately read and use a tape measure.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
- Demonstrated reliability, dependability, and a commitment to maintaining excellent attendance.
- Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, and alternate shifts as needed to support business demands.
- Ability to safely perform the physical requirements of the job, including sitting, standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing stairs, operating a forklift for extended periods, and driving in both forward and reverse directions throughout the shift.
What we offer:
- Corporate culture based on safety, loyalty, integrity, and respect.
- Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities.
- An attractive salary that reflects skills, competencies, and potential.
- Total rewards benefit package starting the first day of the month following 30 days of employment.
- A career in a global packaging company where sustainability, safety and inclusion are business drivers and fundamental elements of daily work.
Position Starting Pay Rate: $22.38 + shift differential ($0.50 for 2nd shift & $0.65 for 3rd shift) - After training and the probationary period, pay will bump up to $24.65. The benefits for this role may include short-term bonus incentive, health, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and paid sick leave as required by applicable state/local law, 5 days of paid vacation will be granted after 60 working days, and 10 days of paid holidays, subject to annual change. Your actual pay will be based on your work location and other factors, such as your skills, experience, and education. To learn more about the specific salary range for your preferred location, please contact your recruiter during the hiring process. You may apply online at 1 and the application window is expected to close by 12/5/2026.
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
