What you'll do
TheYard Operator is responsible for the safe operation of large-capacity forklifts, container handlers, and specialized lifting equipment used to move electrical transformers, transformer components, and shipping containers throughout the facility and yard. This role demands precision handling of high-value, heavy, and sensitive equipment, strict adherence to load capacity limits, and compliance with OSHA powered industrial truck (PIT) and rigging safety standards.
Responsibilities
Transformer Handling
Operate large-capacity forklifts (15,000+ lbs) and specialized lifting equipment to load, unload, and position electrical transformers and transformer components (tanks, cores, coils, bushings, radiators)
Coordinate with riggers, crane operators, and quality personnel when transformers require multi-point lifting or specialized handling
Verify transformer weight, center of gravity, and lifting point specifications before each move to prevent tipping, oil leaks, or damage to bushings/radiators
Handle transformers with care to avoid damage to insulation, gaskets, and internal components; report any signs of oil leakage or physical damage immediately
Position transformers precisely for testing, painting, assembly, or loading onto trailers/flatbeds per shipping instructions
Follow manufacturer and company handling procedures for oil-filled and dry-type switchgear
Container Handling
Operate container handling equipment (top loaders, reach stackers, or heavy forklifts with container attachments) to load, unload, and stage shipping containers
Safely load and secure transformers and heavy equipment inside containers or onto flatbeds/lowboys for export or domestic shipment
Inspect containers for structural integrity, cleanliness, and suitability before loading high-value equipment
Coordinate with shipping/logistics teams on container staging, yard placement, and vessel/rail scheduling
Ensure proper blocking, bracing, and securing of transformers and heavy cargo within containers per shipping and export packaging standards
Support container yard organization and inventory tracking
General Safety & Operations
Conduct pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections; report mechanical issues or safety concerns immediately
Follow all OSHA powered industrial truck (PIT) regulations, rigging safety standards, and company safety protocols
Maintain accurate records of transformer and container movements, including bills of lading, shipping documents, and inventory transactions
Communicate with warehouse, engineering, quality, and shipping staff to coordinate material flow and delivery timelines
Keep equipment clean, charged/fueled, and properly stored at end of shift
Report near-misses, accidents, or unsafe conditions per company policy
Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent required
Valid powered industrial truck (PIT)/forklift certification required for large-capacity equipment (10,000+ lbs); container handler/reach stacker certification a plus
2+ years of experience operating large-capacity forklifts or container handling equipment; experience with transformers, heavy electrical equipment, or oversized/high-value cargo strongly preferred
Working knowledge of rigging basics (sling angles, load charts, center of gravity) preferred
Strong understanding of load capacity limits and safe handling of heavy, sensitive equipment
Ability to read work orders, lifting diagrams, and shipping instructions
Good depth perception, spatial awareness, and physical coordination
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a physically demanding environment
Strong safety mindset; comfortable working around high-value, oil-filled electrical equipment
Working Conditions
Warehouse, manufacturing floor, and outdoor container yard environment
Exposure to varying weather conditions when working in the yard
Extended periods operating heavy machinery
May involve working near cranes, rigging crews, and oil-filled equipment
Will require rotating shifts, weekends, or overtime based on production and shipping schedules
Physical Requirements
Ability to sit/operate controls for extended periods
Frequent bending, twisting, and reaching
Good vision (including depth perception) and hearing
Ability to climb in/out of equipment and onto containers/trailers safely