Heavy Equipment Operator

Position Summary

IEM is currently seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator for our San Antonio location and will report into the Sr. Director of Manufacturing. The Heavy Equipment Operator safely operates forklifts, telehandlers, and other designated material handling equipment to move, position, load, and unload heavy electrical equipment, components, and materials. This role supports manufacturing, warehouse, shipping, and yard operations by ensuring materials and finished products reach the right location safely and on schedule.

The ideal candidate has experience handling large, heavy, or oversized loads, demonstrates sound judgment, and works closely with production and logistics teams to protect people, equipment, and products.

This position will be based temporarily in NE San Antonio while our new manufacturing plant is coming online. Our permanent location is approximately 25 minutes away at Brooks, 7515 Inner Circle Dr., San Antonio, 78235. The position is also 100% in-office and does not offer remote work.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate assigned equipment safely and efficiently within manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and outdoor storage areas.
• Load and unload trucks and trailers, verifying load stability, placement, and equipment capacity before each move.
• Transport and position electrical enclosures, switchgear assemblies, raw materials, and other large or heavy items.
• Assess load weight, dimensions, center of gravity, travel routes, ground conditions, and overhead clearances before operating.
• Follow equipment load charts, manufacturer instructions, and established handling procedures.
• Coordinate with spotters, rigging personnel, production teams, and shipping and receiving personnel during complex moves.
• Use approved attachments and handling methods appropriate to the equipment and load.
• Complete pre-use inspections and document equipment condition, operating hours, and identified concerns.
• Stop operation and report unsafe conditions, equipment defects, incidents, and product damage promptly.
• Perform routine operator care, including cleaning and fluid checks, within training and authorization.
• Verify material identification and destination, and complete required movement or shipment documentation.
• Maintain organized staging areas, clear travel lanes, and clean workspaces in alignment with 5S practices.
• Support material flow improvements and other operations activities as assigned.

Qualifications

• 2 or more years of experience operating heavy equipment in a manufacturing, industrial, warehouse, or similar environment.
• Demonstrated experience moving heavy, oversized, or irregularly shaped loads.
• Ability to interpret equipment capacity information, operating instructions, load charts, and safety procedures.
• Understanding of load stability, pedestrian awareness, and safe loading and unloading practices.
• Ability to complete required equipment training, practical evaluations, and site authorization before operating independently.
• Strong attention to detail, dependable attendance, and clear communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and coordinate effectively with others in an active production environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience handling switchgear, electrical distribution equipment, machinery, or large fabricated assemblies a plus.
• Experience operating high-capacity forklifts, general heavy equipment or telehandlers.
• Familiarity with rigging practices, spotter signals, and coordinated equipment moves.
• Experience using inventory systems, scanners, or material movement records.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Ability to work in a manufacturing and fabrication environment, including exposure to noise, welding fumes, heat, dust, and changing weather conditions.
• Ability to walk fabrication areas, climb stairs and ladders, access elevated work areas, and inspect large assemblies.
• Ability to lift and carry inspection tools and equipment up to [30-50] pounds.
• Ability to use appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, steel-toe footwear, hearing protection, hard hat, gloves, and fall-protection equipment when required.

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