Launch Your Logistics Career: Materials Handler (Forklift Operator) at Fort Wainwright

The U.S. Army Materiel Command is seeking a skilled and reliable Materials Handler to support the 402nd Army Field Support Brigade at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. This role is a cornerstone of the Army's global logistics strategy. If you possess the mechanical aptitude to handle heavy machinery and the organizational skills to manage complex inventory, this position provides a unique pathway into a rewarding federal career.

Job Responsibilities

As a Materials Handler, your daily operations will be dynamic and essential. You will:

Process incoming shipments by unloading and verifying items against shipping documents.
Utilize bar-code laser scanners and telex-transaction computers to manage inventory accurately.
Operate forklifts up to 10,000 lbs. to move heavy supplies.
Perform location surveys and reconcile discrepancies in over, short, or misplaced stock.
Maintain warehouse order and cleanliness to adhere to strict safety protocols.

Requirements

Success in this role requires more than just machinery operation; it requires attention to detail. Candidates must demonstrate:

Ability to perform duties without frequent supervision.
Mechanical dexterity for operating forklifts and transport vehicles.
Capability to lift objects up to 70 pounds.
Understanding of safety protocols when handling hazardous or delicate materials.

Skills Comparison Table

Skill Set	Importance	Description
Forklift Operation	Essential	Handling loads up to 10,000 lbs. safely
Inventory Management	High	Accuracy in receiving and shipping logs
Technical Literacy	Moderate	Operating handheld scanners and computers
Physical Stamina	High	Working on feet, lifting, and bending

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $30.82 to $35.92. The compensation structure includes locality pay and recognizes the technical nature of the work, ensuring fair market value for your specialized skills.

Benefits

Employees of the Department of the Army are provided with:

Exceptional federal health, life, and retirement benefits.
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) support for relocation.
Access to career-broadening training and professional growth programs.
A stable, mission-focused environment that prioritizes the welfare of employees and their families.

Application Tips

To stand out, follow these guidelines:

Tailor Your Resume: Clearly list your hours worked per week and ensure you describe your forklift experience in detail.
Quality Over Quantity: Keep the document under two pages to meet the strict agency requirements.
Use Plain Language: Avoid overly complex acronyms; the hiring team prefers clarity.

Serving as a Materials Handler at Fort Wainwright is an excellent opportunity for logistics professionals to make a tangible impact. By maintaining the supply chain integrity that keeps the Army moving, you are providing the backbone for our national defense. Apply today to start your journey with the U.S. Army Sustainment Command.

Why This Materials Handler (Forklift Operator) Job Matters

Power the mission at Fort Wainwright: Join the U.S. Army Sustainment Command as a Materials Handler and put your operational skills to work in a critical logistics environment.

Materials Handler (Forklift Operator) Job Overview

The 402nd Army Field Support Brigade is seeking a dedicated Materials Handler (Forklift Operator) to join our team in Fort Wainwright, Alaska. This role is essential to our global supply chain, involving the receiving, storing, shipping, and inventory management of critical military equipment and supplies. If you have the precision to manage high-stakes inventory and the technical skill to operate heavy equipment, this position offers a unique opportunity to support the Warfighter directly while building a civilian career within the Department of the Army.

Requirements for Materials Handler (Forklift Operator)

Ability to perform material handling tasks without more than normal supervision.
Experience in stacking, palletizing, inspecting, and verifying quantities for shipment.
Proven competency in operating forklifts rated up to 10,000 lbs.
Ability to interpret instructions, specifications, and technical manuals.
Strong commitment to safety protocols and warehouse maintenance.
Must be able to lift and carry items weighing up to 70 pounds.
Ability to work in various climates and potentially hazardous warehouse conditions.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Preferred Qualifications for Materials Handler (Forklift Operator)

Experience with telex-transaction computer systems and bar-code laser scanners.
Background in high-volume inventory management and location surveying.
Prior experience working within a Department of Defense or logistics-heavy environment.
Demonstrated ability to maintain productivity at a rapid pace.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly wages including locality pay.
✓Permanent Change of Station (PCS) benefits authorized.
✓Opportunities for career advancement within the Army Materiel Command.
✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
✓Support for military families and Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).
✓Training and development in supply management career programs.

💡 How to Apply Materials Handler (Forklift Operator) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Materials Handler (Forklift Operator) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume limited to two pages or less that highlights your relevant experience.
Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing portal.
Upload all required supporting documentation, including eligibility proof.
Submit your application package before the closing date of November 8, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages; longer resumes will be excluded from consideration.
Be specific about your hours worked per week and include month/year for all positions.
Ensure your resume explicitly maps to the 'Screen Out' elements mentioned in the job description.
Double-check your uploaded documents to ensure they clear the virus scan before the deadline.
Sanitize sensitive personal information from documents if necessary, but keep the core data intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

You will independently manage the flow of goods—receiving, unloading, processing, and inventorying supplies to ensure the mission readiness of the U.S. Army.

Are relocation expenses covered?

Yes, payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is authorized in accordance with Joint Travel Regulations.

Can I work remotely?

This position requires physical presence in the warehouse; therefore, it is not a remote position, though some telework eligibility may exist for administrative tasks as defined by agency policy.

What is the security requirement?

*A: This position requires a Secret security clearance and is subject to a drug test.*

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: Yes, PCS costs are authorized for qualified candidates.*

Job from U.S. Army Sustainment Command

The U.S. Army Sustainment Command is the primary logistics engine of the Army. With nearly 165,000 personnel worldwide, the command ensures that our forces are the best-equipped fighting force in existence. By joining our team, you become an essential part of a mission that spans 150 countries, providing support that ranges from humanitarian aid to critical military operations.