Yard Driver/Forklift Operator at Southeastern Food Merchandisers LP – Pelham, Alabama

The Yard Driver is responsible for safely and efficiently maneuvering trailers within the facility yard to support warehouse and transportation operations. This role includes backing trailers into dock doors, repositioning equipment as needed, and maintaining clear communication with warehouse and transportation teams to ensure smooth workflow and timely movement of trailers. The Yard Driver must demonstrate strong attention to detail, safety awareness, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. Responsible for the accurate and safe receiving, handling, storage, and movement of inbound products. This role ensures all inbound shipments meet SFM quality, food safety, and documentation standards while maintaining proper inventory levels through forklift operation and replenishment activities across freezer, cooler, and dry environments.

· Safely maneuver and position trailers within the yard according to operational needs.

· Back trailers accurately into dock doors and designated staging areas.

· Communicate effectively with warehouse, transportation, and dispatch personnel regarding assignments, priorities, and next steps.

· Conduct basic inspections of trailers and report any damage or safety concerns.

· Follow all safety procedures, company policies, and yard traffic rules at all times.

· Maintain focus and attention to detail while operating equipment in a busy yard environment.

· Work outdoors in various weather conditions while maintaining productivity and safety.

· Verify accuracy, quality, quantities, dates, labeling, and condition of all inbound products against purchase orders and receiving documentation.

· Ensure all inbound paperwork (BOLs, receivers, pick tickets, and related records) is completed accurately and maintained per warehouse SOPs.

· Identify and take appropriate action on products that do not meet SFM quality, shelf-life, packaging, or food safety standards.

· Safely operate a stand-up forklift and other material handling equipment (no sit-down forklifts) to load, unload, stage, store, retrieve, and replenish product.

· Transport materials to and from storage locations and accurately place products into correct pick and reserve slots.

· Replenish pick slots from reserve locations to maintain adequate inventory levels for selectors.

· Interact with warehouse management systems, automation screens, and/or paper pick tickets to verify inventory accuracy and pallet builds.

· Operate bay doors and designated warehouse equipment safely and efficiently.

· Maintain cleanliness and organization of assigned work areas, including spill cleanup, trash removal, restacking pallets, and general housekeeping as needed.

· Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety, food security, and workplace safety policies.

· Ensure consistent accuracy, quality, and efficiency in all assigned tasks.

· Strong attention to detail and safety awareness.

· Effective verbal communication and organizational skills.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Ability to function well in a fast-paced and sometimes high-pressure environment.

· Dependable and reliable attendance.

· Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively for safety, documentation, and operational needs.

· Ability to safely work in fluctuating temperature environments: Dry, Cooler (approx. 32°F), and Freezer (down to -6°F).

· Ability to work in moderate to high noise environments.

· Ability to safely operate industrial material handling equipment.

· Ability to successfully complete forklift certification.