Forklift Operator

Forklift Operator – Freezer/Warehouse
Department: Freezer/Warehousing
Employment Type: Full-time

Company: Pie in the Sky Bakery; Montague Gardens

Job Purpose

We are looking for a reliable and safety-conscious Forklift Operator to support our freezer and warehouse operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe movement, storage, picking and preparation of products using a forklift, while maintaining accurate stock control and complying with company safety, hygiene, quality and operational procedures.

What We Are Looking For

The ideal candidate is a responsible and dependable forklift operator who takes pride in operating equipment safely, keeping stock accurate and supporting the wider warehouse team. The ability to work independently while cooperating effectively with Pickers, Packers and Supervisors is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate the forklift safely and efficiently within freezer and warehouse areas.
• Complete pre-use forklift safety inspections and report any defects or maintenance requirements.
• Perform basic first-line forklift checks and report major faults to Maintenance.
• Move, stack and position pallets safely according to the freezer layout and storage requirements.
• Ensure products are stored correctly and according to FIFO (First In, First Out) principles.
• Support picking and packing activities by moving stock and completed orders to the correct locations.
• Assist with preparing pallets for dispatch and ensure completed orders are correctly positioned and labelled.
• Conduct stock movements and assist with daily and weekly stock counts.
• Accurately record stock picked and moved on the required freezer control sheets.
• Check that pallets and products are handled carefully to prevent damage.
• Work closely with Pickers, Packers, Roamers and Team Leaders to ensure smooth freezer operations.
• Maintain clean, organised and accessible work areas.
• Follow all company SOPs, food safety, quality, hygiene and health & safety requirements.
• Wear the required protective clothing and comply with freezer-area hygiene and safety requirements.
• Report damaged products, equipment, stock discrepancies or other operational issues to the relevant supervisor.
• Assist with general operational duties when required and contribute positively to the team.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 / Matric.
• Valid forklift licence/certificate.
• Previous forklift operating experience, preferably in a warehouse, distribution or manufacturing environment.
• Experience working in a freezer or cold-storage environment will be advantageous.
• Basic understanding of stock handling and FIFO principles.
• Ability to complete basic stock and operational records accurately.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment.
• Physically fit and able to work in a cold/freezer environment.
• Reliable, punctual and willing to follow instructions and standard operating procedures.

Key Competencies

• Forklift operating skills
• Safety awareness
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Stock control awareness
• Teamwork and cooperation
• Reliability and work discipline
• Problem-solving and initiative
• Ability to follow procedures
• Careful handling of products and equipment

Work Location: In person