Forklift Operator/Dispatcher

Position Summary

Forward Air is seeking a dependable and motivated individual to join our team as a Forklift Operator / Dispatcher. This hybrid role combines hands-on dock work with coordination and communication responsibilities to ensure the efficient flow of freight through our network. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and capable of balancing physical warehouse duties with dispatch planning and communication tasks.

Core Responsibilities & Duties

Warehouse & Forklift Operations

• Load and unload freight from 53 ft. commercial trailers safely and efficiently.

• Operate forklifts, hand trucks, and pallet jacks; maintain required certifications.

• Use handheld scanners to track, label, and process freight through the distribution network.

• Verify freight documentation and inspect condition to ensure quality and accuracy.

• Frequently lift/move up to 50 lbs; occasionally up to 90 lbs.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.

• Perform other dock-related duties as assigned.

Dispatching & Coordination

• Plan, schedule, and dispatch customer freight shipments within assigned areas.

• Act as the main point of contact for drivers and Independent Contractors via phone, email, and communication systems.

• Monitor shipment progress and provide proactive updates to ensure on-time delivery.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with drivers and internal teams.

• Resolve issues promptly and professionally to meet customer expectations.

• Collaborate with customer service and sales to address freight needs and provide solutions.

• Track performance, hours, and equipment availability to ensure operational efficiency.

• Perform additional administrative or communication tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in logistics, dispatching, or warehouse operations preferred.

• Ability to obtain and maintain forklift certification.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

• Must be flexible to work weekends and overtime as needed.

• Team-oriented with a strong commitment to safety and service.

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About Us

Since 1990, Forward Air has been a leading provider of ground transportation and related logistics services to the North American air freight and expedited LTL market. We offer surface shipping on an accelerated “time-definite” basis, delivering cargo at a specific time, but under less time-sensitive situations – supplying you with a cost effective, reliable alternative to air transportation. We work with companies of all sizes to develop tangible advantages and build the best products to meet your specific needs. Forward Air presents to the wholesale transportation community (logistics companies, freight forwarders, integrated air cargo carriers, passenger/ cargo airlines, and non-traditional shippers), a single-source provider that can deliver more supply chain services and a superior menu of choices. Throughout the years we have added supplementary lines to our linehaul service, such as full truckload operations (Truckload Services), final-mile coverage (Complete® Cartage), and an Airline Logistics program, and we will continue to expand our services to meet the changing needs and growth of our customer base.

Forward Air is structured to optimize both savings and service to our customers. Direct partnerships with owner-operators and other surface transportation providers, enable us to remain cost-competitive. The Forward Air network is designed with over 90 facilities located at or near major U.S. and Canadian airports, 12 regional sort centers and over 300 beyond points (secondary airports provided through our Complete Cartage service), creating one of the most comprehensive linehaul networks in the industry.

Ranked 3rd in Newsweeks 2022 "Americas Most Trustworthy Companies (https://www.newsweek.com/americas-most-trustworthy-companies-2022/transport-logistics-packaging) " publication

About the Team