At Woodland Gourmet, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset. We foster a culture that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and continuous growth. Our team members are encouraged and empowered to take on challenges, contribute their unique perspectives, and develop their careers. We are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic work environment where every individual’s contribution is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain focused on fostering an atmosphere of learning, respect, and teamwork.

Woodland Gourmet

Since 1989, Woodland Foods has been a trusted source of inspiration for food lovers worldwide. Rooted in authenticity and global culinary exploration, we are dedicated to providing globally inspired specialty ingredients that enhance culinary experiences. Our mission is to partner with customers who share our passion for authentic food solutions, focusing on Collaborative Innovation, Product Diversity, and Agile Operations. With our seasoned team, we craft innovative food experiences by exploring gourmet ingredients and unique flavors.

In December 2021, Woodland Foods was acquired by Graham Partners, a private investment firm committed to growing businesses with strong technological, manufacturing, and product development capabilities.

Idan Foods

Established in 1978, Idan Foods is renowned for its expertise in fried chicken breading, seasoning, baking mixes, and packaging. Specializing in creating unique textures, flavors, and spices, Idan is dedicated to helping customers build their own brand identities. From research and development to packaging and shipping, Idan takes pride in providing exceptional customer service, ensuring each product meets the highest standards. Idan Foods joined the Woodland Gourmet family in April 2024, bringing its expertise in custom food formulation and blending services to our growing portfolio.

Sevillo Fine Foods

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sevillo Fine Foods focuses on producing all-natural, ready-to-eat frozen products designed to save time and labor in the kitchen. With an emphasis on fire-roasted vegetables, slow-roasted tomatoes, spreads, and sauces, Sevillo elevates menus with value-added solutions. The integration of Sevillo with Woodland Gourmet, finalized in March 2025, opens up significant cross-selling opportunities, particularly in the food service distribution channel. This strategic acquisition strengthens our position in the retail and industrial markets while enhancing our capabilities in creating tailored culinary solutions.

Graham Partners

Graham Partners, founded in 1988, is a private investment firm focused on businesses with proprietary technologies, advanced manufacturing expertise, and strong growth potential. With over 110 acquisitions and investments, Graham Partners has a long history of backing companies in the food and consumer technology sectors, including Woodland Gourmet, Commercial Bakeries, Giraffe Food, and more. With significant industry experience and access to extensive operational resources, Graham Partners is a key driver in Woodland Gourmet's growth and success.

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Material Handler/Forklift Operator 2nd Shift

Waukegan, IL

Full Time

Entry Level

Title: Material Handler / Forklift Operator
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Department Supervisor
Supervises: N/A
Travel: As needed according to the essential functions of the position
Department: Production

JOB PURPOSE: The Material Handler is responsible for the safe and efficient movement, storage, and handling of products, raw materials, packaging, and supplies within warehouse and production areas. This role supports production operations by ensuring materials are accurately received, stored, staged, and delivered to the appropriate locations while maintaining inventory accuracy and compliance with company safety, quality, and sanitation standards.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Use internal inventory systems to scan materials and products into and out of locations.
Safely operate forklifts and other material handling equipment to transport and store products, raw materials, and packaging supplies.
Load and unload freight from trucks and internal transfers using manual handling or powered equipment.
Weigh, label, and stage materials and finished goods as required.
Deliver and replenish raw materials, packaging, and supplies to production areas to support scheduled production runs.
Store received materials properly to support inventory accuracy and proper product rotation (FIFO).
Prepare finished goods for shipment by building boxes or pallets and processing packages through shipping systems such as UPS or FedEx.
Communicate with Warehouse, Production, Quality Assurance, and Management regarding discrepancies in inventory, material conditions, or product quality concerns.
Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work environment in the warehouse and/or production areas.
Perform daily inspections of forklifts and material handling equipment and complete inspection reports as required.
Identify and communicate products that require repacking or corrective action to Shipping or Production leadership.
Follow all company safety policies, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and food safety standards.
Perform other duties as assigned to support operational needs.

Qualifications/Requirements

Minimum 1 year of forklift experience (Reach Truck, Stand-up, or Cherry Picker) required.
High School Diploma or GED required.
Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
Working knowledge of warehouse operations, inventory movement, or food manufacturing environments preferred.
Ability to work flexible hours, including overtime when required.
Ability to lift up to 55 lbs. (team lift required for items over 55 lbs.).
Must follow all Woodland Gourmet GMPs and comply with food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.

Skills/Abilities

Basic computer skills and experience using inventory or scanning systems.
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
Understanding of scale operations, weights, and measurements.
Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Teams, Outlook, Excel).
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong organizational skills.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are those an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform basic functions. Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and frequently bend and move about the facility. Must be able to climb ladders and maneuver in small spaces. Able to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive physical tasks. Ability to lift, push, or pull materials up to 50 pounds.
Able to work in a typical manufacturing environment, which may include exposure to noise and non-toxic dust.

Personal Protective Equipment
The performance of this position requires exposure to manufacturing and warehouse areas, which may, under certain conditions, require the use of personal protective equipment.

Work Environment
The work environmental characteristics described here represent those encountered by an employee while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform basic functions. This position does not allow for remote work.

Works in a manufacturing environment
Exposure to dust, odors, and noise

This document does not state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.

Woodland Gourmet hires exceptional people to perform a wide variety of important functions that contribute to the success of our organization. We offer a competitive compensation package with benefits. The hourly rate for this role will be $ 18.00 to $ 25.00. This position is eligible for an annual bonus (based on the incentive program terms and conditions). Based on your qualifications, previous experience, and transferable skills, the company will determine, at its discretion, the hourly rate offered and will reflect the market conditions and cost of living for your geographic location.

Our benefits program is designed to support our team in leading healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives. We deeply value the contributions of our team members and are committed to offering a competitive total compensation package. Additionally, we offer medical, prescription drug plans, dental, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, vision insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, voluntary benefits (hospital, critical illness, personal accident, legal & identify theft), 401k with company match, paid family leave, paid holidays and paid time off.

Woodland Gourmet is a participant in the federal E-Verify program. As part of the hiring process, we will verify the information provided on your Form I-9 to confirm your eligibility to work in the United States.
E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from your Form I-9 to government records to confirm employment eligibility. For more information on E-Verify and your rights, please visit the E-Verify website.

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