"Material Handler"

Wesleyan University, founded in 1831, is a diverse, energetic liberal arts community where critical thinking and practical idealism go hand in hand.

Wesleyan University, founded in 1831 and located in Middletown, Connecticut, is a leading liberal arts institution recognized for its academic excellence, vibrant community, and commitment to inclusion and innovation.

Reporting to the Material Handling Working Foreperson, the Material Handler is responsible for the safe and efficient movement, transport, and storage of furniture, materials, and equipment as well as providing logistical support for campus events and University operations.

Responsibilities include:

• Read work orders and follow instructions to determine work assignments, materials, and equipment needs.
• Set up and arrange tables, chairs, podiums, portable stages, and flooring for campus events in coordination with campus Conferences and Scheduling.
• Move and transport furniture, freight, stock, and other materials to and from classrooms, offices, residence halls, storage areas, loading docks, and delivery vehicles by hand or using appropriate moving equipment including trucks, dollies, or other moving tools.
• Clean and maintain furniture, equipment, and storage areas as needed to ensure readiness for campus use.
• Safely load, unload and secure materials using winches, pallet jacks, forklifts, and other approved hoisting devices.
• Pack, label, and re-pack containers as necessary to protect materials and maintain organization.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions or practices regardless of trade affiliation, promoting a safe working environment.
• Haul and transfer materials for recycling and composting, supporting the University’s sustainability initiatives.
• Drive and maneuver University vehicles and medium-duty trucks (up to 10,000 lbs. GVW) safely and in compliance with University policies, state regulations, and all applicable laws of the road.
• Participate in campus-wide maintenance, renovation, and capital projects, assisting with material movement and site preparation.
• Coordinate work with other Physical Plant trades and contracted service or construction personnel as required to complete projects efficiently.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Participate in overtime assignments as required or scheduled.

This position is in the physical plant bargaining unit. The work schedule is first shift, 40 hours per week for 52 weeks.

This position is classified as essential personnel and as such are required to report to work/remain at work even if classes are cancelled and the campus is working on limited operations in an emergency.

This position is required to work on campus.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Employee may be exposed to and should be capable of meeting the following physical demands with or without reasonable accommodations at full duty.
Carrying 50 lbs. – Occasionally(up to 33%% of work week)
Lifting 50 lbs.- Occasionally
Pushing 100 lbs. – Frequently (34-66% of work week)
Pulling 100 lbs.- Frequently
Climbing – Frequently (including portable ladders up to 60 feet in length)
Maintaining and Repairing – 100% of work week
Walking/Driving – 100% of work week

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret work orders, drawings, and setup diagrams for furniture installations and event layouts.
• Knowledge and demonstrated practice of safe material handling techniques and proper lifting methods.
• Proficient in the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and knowledgeable about Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS/SDS) and safe waste disposal methods.
• Effective communication skills.
• Demonstrated history of exceptional customer service skills and timely customer follow-up.
• Must be at least 20 years of age and possess a valid U.S. driver’s license for a minimum of three years with a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position, including climbing ladders, lifting, and carrying up to 50 pounds, and pushing and pulling up to 100 pounds with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Demonstrated commitment to work within a diverse environment and work collegially with individuals of different backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous employment in the field of material handling, event support, and storage management at an institutional facility.
• Desktop computer skills including the fundamental use of internet, e-mail, and maintenance management systems.
• Experience in proper and safe operation of material handling equipment including forklifts and other lift/transport devices.

Position is open until filled. For full consideration please apply by November 23, 2025 when first review of applications will begin.

As part of your application, please upload a cover letter and resume.

Compensation: $25.41-$31.06/hr

Work Location: On Campus

All offers to external applicants are contingent on the candidate’s completion of a pre-employment background check screening to the satisfaction of Wesleyan University.