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This position has closed. UFP Industries removed this listing from their careers page on Oct 6, 2026. The interview prep below is still useful, and there are similar open roles at the bottom of this page.

Forklift Operator 1

UFP Industries · Peru, IL · Full time

Posted Aug 20, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 5, 2026

Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about the forklifts you've operated and the kinds of loads you've moved.

What they are checking: Practical experience relevant to lumber yards and production material moves.

Tell me about a close call you had while operating equipment. What did you learn?

What they are checking: Honest safety reflection and whether they changed habits afterward.

How do you contribute in safety and continuous improvement meetings?

What they are checking: Engagement in UFP's programs instead of passive attendance.

What would you do

How do you move material from inventory to production on schedule so lines don't wait?

What they are checking: Understanding that the forklift operator keeps production running by anticipating needs.

Your supervisor tells you two lines both need material right now. What do you do?

What they are checking: Prioritizing calmly and communicating with leads instead of guessing.

How would you keep the finished goods yard organized so shipping can find loads quickly?

What they are checking: Seeing yard organization as part of the job, not someone else's problem.

About the work

Walk me through your pre-shift inspection. What would make you report a truck as unsafe?

What they are checking: Whether they inspect for real and would tag out equipment with a problem.

How do you handle long, unstable loads like bundled lumber in tight spaces?

What they are checking: Load handling skill and awareness of shifting or overhanging material.

How do you keep inventory counts and production records accurate?

What they are checking: Paperwork discipline, since inventory depends on forklift operator records.

What do you do when a pedestrian walks into your travel path?

What they are checking: Defensive driving habits that protect people on foot in the plant.

Practice this interview out loud.

Offer builds a real interview for this exact role at UFP Industries from your resume and this job description, asks the questions one at a time, and tells you what landed. The first one is free.

Practice this out loud

The full job description

As published by UFP Industries.

Job Summary Forklift Operator I is responsible for the movement of material from inventory to production and back to inventory. Maintains correct paperwork and production records as required. Provides production departments with material from inventory according to production schedule. Principle Duties and Responsibilities • Moves material in process from one station to another if necessary • Bands, wraps and/or packs finished goods, and labels material • Moves finished goods from production area to finished goods inventory yard or warehouse • Assist production with bottlenecks and other material needs • Provides general preventive maintenance on equipment • Completes pre-shift startup equipment checklist and reports any problems or concerns • Maintains rough material and finished goods inventory yard organized and clean • Completes production records as required • Follows forklift rules and policies as described by Company policy • Participates in safety, CI and other programs and meetings • Performs other duties as required Qualifications • Minimum 9th grade basic education, High school diploma or GED preferred but not required • No minimum experience is required however, forklift driving experience is preferred • Working knowledge of basic math and inventory techniques preferred • Successfully complete Forklift Driver licensing process • Must be at least 18 years of age Click here to watch what a day in the life of a Forklift Operator looks like. Hourly Pay : $17.00 *pay range may be adjusted depending on cost of living Bonus Pay A discretionary annual bonus based on Company and business unit performance may also be provided. Benefits currently offered to our employees: • Medical insurance • Health savings account with company contribution • Dental insurance • Vision insurance • Basic and voluntary life insurance • Disability insurance • 401(k) plan with company match • Paid vacation and holidays • Stock purchase program with employee discount • Educational reimbursement • Wellness programs and challenges • Other supplemental benefits The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.