Apply Now:Forklift Operator in Ames | Hiring
Position in Ames, IA
Position: Forklift Operator (Based in Ames) Employer: Costco (Hiring in Ames) Location: Ames, IA Urgency: Immediate consideration in Ames. Required Experience: Entry-Level.
Pay: $20-$26/Hour (approx. $49.1k/Year) Benefits: A comprehensive benefits package is included. Clear growth pathways at our Ames office.
What You'll Do
This role centers on your professional skills within the Warehousing And Logistics space in Ames.
- This Ames-based role is an excellent opportunity for professionals skilled in relevant skills.
- Our Costco team in Ames, IA is growing.
- Benefit from working in Ames, a key hub for the Warehousing And Logistics industry.
Forklift Operator
About Costco
We operate large-scale membership warehouses serving millions of loyal shoppers daily. Our inventory logistics ensure that commercial and residential members receive high-demand goods safely and efficiently. When you embark on a career in forklift operator jobs with Costco, you are joining you are joining a structured warehouse operations team focused on precision, safety compliance, and systematic inventory fulfillment.
Job Summary
The Forklift Operator moves high-volume palletized inventory to ensure shelves remain fully stocked for our members. Your daily operations directly support the purchasing needs of over 4,000 daily shoppers. You will serve as Full-Time, delivering the signature Methodical that sets Costco apart in the warehousing and logistics.
Comprehensive Responsibilities
- Inventory Transport: Transport 150 to 200 pallets daily from receiving docks to high-bay racking systems using a stand-up reach truck.
- Safety Inspection: Conduct pre-shift and post-shift mechanical inspections on propane-powered forklifts to maintain OSHA compliance standards.
- Stock Replenishment: Replenish pick locations utilizing an RF barcode scanner to maintain 99.8 percent inventory accuracy across 500 stock keeping units.
- Waste Management: Operate vertical cardboard balers to process 3 tons of corrugated packaging waste per shift while maintaining clear loading aisles.
Industry-Leading Benefits & Salary
We provide comprehensive operational benefits designed to support your health and long-term financial stability.
- Salary: $21.50–$28.00 per hour
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options beginning on the first day of the month following 90 days of employment.
- Retirement Plan: Employer-matching 401(k) contributions up to 5 percent of eligible annual earnings with immediate vesting.
- Paid Time Off: Accrued vacation time starting at two weeks per year alongside nine paid corporate holidays.
Requirements & Qualifications
- Possess a valid certification to operate sit-down and stand-up industrial forklifts.
- Demonstrate the ability to lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly throughout an 8-hour shift.
- Pass a mandatory pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Minimum of one year of experience operating material handling equipment in a distribution center.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Forklift Operator in Ames | Hiring position pay at Costco?
This role offers a pay range of $20 - $26. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, shift, and location within Ames.
Where is this Forklift Operator in Ames | Hiring job located?
This position is based in Ames, IA. Costco has facilities throughout the region, but this specific opening is in Ames.
Do I need a forklift certification for this role?
No prior forklift certification is required. Costco provides free, paid on-site training and certification for all powered industrial truck (PIT) equipment including forklifts, clamp trucks, and order pickers.
Do I need prior experience to apply for this Forklift Operator in Ames | Hiring job?
No prior experience is required. Costco provides all necessary training for new hires. This is an entry-level opportunity open to candidates from all backgrounds.
What are the physical requirements for this position?
This role involves team-lifting items weighing between 50 to 150+ pounds using proper ergonomic techniques and mechanical aids. Costco provides safety training and equipment to ensure associate safety.
What benefits does Costco offer for this position?
Costco provides comprehensive benefits starting Day 1, which may include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and employee assistance programs.
