Launch Your Career as a Materials Examiner at DLA Fort Meade
Are you looking for a stable career that supports our nation's defense? The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is currently hiring for a Materials Examiner (Forklift Operator) at our facility in Fort Meade, Maryland. This role is essential to our mission of providing worldwide logistics support to the military.
About the Defense Logistics Agency
The Defense Logistics Agency acts as the primary logistics combat support agency for the U.S. Department of Defense. We provide food, fuel, equipment, and medical supplies to our military forces around the globe. Our team at Disposition Services is composed of high-performing, results-driven individuals dedicated to protecting the warfighter and the environment.
Role Responsibilities
As a Materials Examiner, you will handle a wide range of tasks, including:
- Receiving and inspecting incoming property.
- Verifying disposal documents against inventory.
- Operating forklifts to stack and move heavy pallets.
- Identifying hazardous materials and ensuring compliance with disposal codes.
- Maintaining accurate records and documentation.
Comparison: Standard vs. Specialized Warehouse Roles
| Feature | General Warehouse | DLA Materials Examiner |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Basic inventory | Global military logistics |
| Compliance | Internal policy | Federal and DoD regulations |
| Material Types | Commercial goods | Specialized, Hazardous, & MIL-spec |
| Equipment | Standard lifts | Specialized handling equipment |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $29.02 to $33.82. In addition to steady income, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave policies.
Requirements for Success
To be successful in this role, you must be able to perform under limited supervision, lift up to 50 pounds regularly, and remain vigilant about safety protocols. Knowledge of logistical documentation and hazardous material handling is a major asset.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages, saved as a PDF, and includes all necessary work history. Do not miss the deadline of July 12, 2026.
If you are ready to apply your mechanical and organizational skills to a mission that matters, apply for the Materials Examiner position with the DLA today.
Why This Materials & Examiner (Forklift Operator) Job Matters
Launch your logistics career with the Defense Logistics Agency at Fort Meade, where your precision handling and expert examination skills directly support America's warfighters.
Materials & Examiner (Forklift Operator) Job Overview
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking a motivated Materials Examiner and Identifier to join our dynamic team at Fort Meade, Maryland. In this role, you will be the backbone of our inventory operations, responsible for the receipt, inspection, and classification of a diverse array of materials. If you thrive in a fast-paced warehouse environment and are committed to logistical excellence, this position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to our mission of providing worldwide support to the U.S. Military.
Requirements for Materials & Examiner (Forklift Operator)
- Ability to perform job duties without more than normal supervision
- Physical capability to lift up to 50 pounds
- Must be able to navigate warehouse environments, including kneeling, bending, and stooping
- Willingness to work both indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions
- Ability to use material handling equipment safely
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of employment
- Must provide a resume not exceeding two pages
Preferred Qualifications for Materials & Examiner (Forklift Operator)
- Experience in identifying and segregating property based on classification
- Proficiency in utilizing data management systems to verify disposal turn-in documents
- Strong background in warehouse inventory practices
- Experience with demilitarization codes and specialized hazardous material handling
- Prior experience operating forklifts and heavy machinery in a logistics setting
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression
💡 How to Apply Materials & Examiner (Forklift Operator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Materials & Examiner (Forklift Operator) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less
- Review the vacancy announcement and gather required supporting documents (e.g., DD-214 for veterans)
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of July 12, 2026
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for status updates
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Use standard, legible fonts like Lato, Arial, or Calibri.
- Save all documents as PDFs to preserve formatting and page limits.
- Double-check that your resume is exactly two pages or fewer to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Submit early to allow for potential document processing delays or system traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position involves handling sensitive materials and requires compliance with agency security protocols.
Does this position involve drug testing?
Yes, as a testing-designated position, you will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen and may be subject to random testing during your tenure.
What is the maximum resume length?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Applications exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Do I need a commercial driver's license?
While forklift certification is implied, please refer to the specific job assessment for site-specific equipment requirements.
Is there travel involved?
This role is based at Fort Meade and generally does not involve regular travel.