Forklift Operator

Lumax Energy is looking for an experienced Forklift & Side Loader Operator to join our warehouse operations in Midrand or Olifantsfontein. This is not a standard pallet-handling forklift position. The role involves the safe movement, loading and unloading of long steel and aluminium sections of up to 6 metres, including bundled profiles, rails and other long or awkward materials.

The successful candidate must be highly experienced in operating both counterbalance forklifts and side loaders and must understand the additional care required when handling long loads. A major focus of the position is preventing product damage. Many of the materials handled are galvanised, coated or aluminium products where poor handling can result in scratches, bending, deformation or other damage.

The role also supports the broader warehouse operation and will include general warehouse duties when equipment operation is not required.

Key Responsibilities

Operate counterbalance forklifts and side loaders safely and efficiently. Handle long steel, aluminium profiles, rails and similar sections up to 6 metres in length. Load and unload trucks and other delivery vehicles. Move long and awkward materials safely within warehouse and yard areas. Position and stack materials correctly to prevent instability or product damage.

Take particular care when handling galvanised, coated and aluminium products. Inspect forklift and side-loader equipment before use and report defects immediately. Assist with picking, loading, receiving and dispatch activities when required. Assist with stock counts and inventory-control activities. Maintain clean and orderly warehouse and operating areas.

Follow warehouse procedures, traffic-management rules and health and safety requirements. Assist with general warehouse duties as reasonably required. Work overtime and weekends when operational requirements require it. The position reports to the Warehouse Manager. Please note: Applications will only be accepted through the official application link provided in this advertisement.

Lumax Energy does not accept applications submitted by email, directly to employees, or through recruitment/employment agencies. Recruitment agencies are requested not to contact us regarding this vacancy.

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements: Matric / Grade 12 – mandatory. Minimum 5 years' relevant forklift/material-handling experience. At least 2–3 years' direct experience handling long steel sections, structural profiles, tubing, aluminium extrusions or similar long materials. Proven experience handling sections of up to approximately 6 metres in length.

Proven experience operating a counterbalance forklift. Proven experience operating a side loader. Current and valid forklift/operator certification applicable to the equipment being operated. Experience loading and unloading trucks carrying long sections or similar materials. Good understanding of load stability, positioning and safe handling of long and awkward loads.

Demonstrated ability to handle steel, galvanised and aluminium products without causing unnecessary product damage. Experience working in a warehouse, steel, engineering, manufacturing, construction-materials or similar industrial environment. Willingness to perform general warehouse duties and not operate equipment exclusively.

Willingness to work overtime and weekends when required. Reliable attendance, good safety awareness and a disciplined approach to equipment operation. Applications from candidates whose forklift experience is predominantly limited to palletised FMCG, retail or general warehousing, without meaningful long-section handling experience, will not meet the requirements of this position.

Benefits

Market-related remuneration based on experience and capability. Full-time employment within an established South African renewable-energy business. Structured warehouse and operational environment. Opportunity to work within Lumax Energy's growing manufacturing and distribution operations. Skills development and operational training where applicable.