Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Software
Interests
Timeline
Generic
Michael Powalisz

Michael Powalisz

Warehouse Associate 4
Milwaukee,WI

Summary

Dynamic warehouse professional with extensive experience at Kohls Distribution Center, excelling in shipping and receiving operations. Proven track record in reducing errors through meticulous product inspection and effective teamwork. Certified forklift driver skilled in materials transportation, demonstrating strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety and compliance.

Overview

48
48
years of professional experience

Work History

Warehouse Forklift Operator

Phillips Pet Supply/Central Pet Supply/General Pet Supply
03.2010 - Current
  • Operated forklifts to transport inventory efficiently within warehouse environment.
  • Conducted routine safety inspections on equipment to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Loaded and unloaded shipments, maintaining accurate inventory records throughout process.
  • Collaborated with team members to optimize workflow and minimize downtime.
  • Wrapped pallets in plastic wrap and attached merchandise tags to prepare for shipping.
  • Built pallets and loads for partial and mixed pallets, wrapped finished pallets and staged pallets and loads into truck when ready for shipment.
  • Worked with racking systems and loaded or unloaded pallets, pulling and placing pallets on or off of vertical product racking systems and trucks, maximizing storage by stacking products vertically.
  • Received products using frequency scanners, unloaded shipments from trucks and fulfilled and organized orders to streamline customer delivery processes.
  • Ensured timely deliveries by efficiently loading and unloading trucks with the use of forklifts.
  • Reduced product damage by performing routine forklift maintenance and safety checks.
  • Maintained an organized warehouse by systematically arranging products using a forklift according to company guidelines.
  • Contributed to the reduction of workplace accidents by adhering to strict safety protocols during all forklift operations.
  • Participated in regular safety meetings, staying up-to-date on best practices in regards to safe and efficient operation of a warehouse forklift.
  • Improved overall warehouse cleanliness, routinely clearing debris from aisles with the use of attachments on the forklift.
  • Supported the shipping department with prompt loading and unloading tasks utilizing a variety of specialized attachments on the forklift as needed.
  • Transported stowed product inventory to various locations throughout unit, labeling and replenishing inventory items, making boxes and loading and unloading trailers to keep stock in proper condition.
  • Fostered positive working relationships with colleagues and supervisors, promoting teamwork and collaboration within the warehouse environment while executing daily forklift tasks.
  • Kept up-to-date on company policies and procedures relating to forklift operations through continuous training sessions and self-directed learning.
  • Monitored area for pedestrian and vehicular traffic while operating various types of equipment.
  • Maneuvered forklift safely in congested and confined areas using Skill and Technique.
  • Aided in the reduction of overall lead time, promptly transporting materials from receiving dock to designated storage areas using a forklift.
  • Verified functionality of forklifts through performance of preventive maintenance and effective troubleshooting of malfunctions.
  • Streamlined order processing with efficient materials handling and accurate placement of goods using a forklift in designated locations.
  • Operated forklift in compliance with OSHA guidelines and organizational policies.
  • Operated equipment safely and efficiently to prevent damage to items and avoid injuries.
  • Transported goods between warehouse locations according to shipment and storage needs.
  • Maneuvered forklift safely using appropriate load rates and maintaining clear visibility of work areas.
  • Communicated with floor managers to determine merchandise placement.
  • Used strapping and bracing techniques combined with proper balancing to prevent load shifting.
  • Inspected equipment for defects and performed repairs or maintenance tasks.
  • Positioned lifting devices under, over or around loaded pallets or boxes to secure material or products for transport to designated areas.
  • Assessed equipment for damage, wear, battery life, and fluid levels.
  • Moved levers or controls to operate forklifts, lifting beams with swivel-hooks and hoists to transport and load materials.
  • Operated transport vehicles and auxiliary equipment to move materials safely to and from target areas.
  • Promoted operational efficiency by maximizing loads on each transfer.
  • Drove equipment from one site to another to deliver tools and complete jobs.
  • Adjusted machinery and notified supervisors of malfunctions.

Receiver/Shipper

Kohls Distribution Center
04.2008 - 04.2010
  • Received and inspected incoming merchandise for quality and accuracy.
  • Operated material handling equipment to facilitate efficient product movement.
  • Maintained organized inventory systems to optimize storage space and retrieval processes.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure timely order processing and dispatching.
  • Maintained a clean and organized receiving area, enhancing workflow and productivity.
  • Kept work areas clean, safe, and organized.
  • Implemented best practices for workplace safety, reducing potential hazards.
  • Unloaded pallets and deliveries and organized products in warehouse.
  • Managed inventory levels effectively through accurate data entry and record-keeping practices.
  • Reduced errors in received shipments by conducting thorough inspections and ensuring accurate documentation.
  • Placed, tagged, and secured merchandise in diverse designated areas.
  • Expedited returns of damaged or incorrect items to suppliers, ensuring timely resolution of issues.
  • Streamlined the unloading process, reducing time spent on manual labor tasks.
  • Coordinated with other departments for seamless integration of received goods into various operations.
  • Assisted in resolving discrepancies between purchase orders and delivered goods promptly, minimizing negative impacts on business operations.
  • Provided support during peak seasons or special projects by performing additional duties as needed including assisting in picking, packing or shipping processes.
  • Implemented safety protocols to reduce workplace accidents during unloading and storage processes.
  • Received incoming shipments, compared contents against associated records and transmitted to proper department.
  • Used pallet jacks and dollies to load and unloaded goods from trucks and containers.
  • Inspected merchandise and sent damaged pieces for repair before shipment.
  • Verified orders by comparing names and quantity of items packaged with shipping documents.
  • Utilized forklift or pallet truck to load, unload, transport and store goods.
  • Rejected damaged items, recorded shortages and corresponded with shippers to rectify issues.
  • Moved shipment materials to and from designated areas using lift and hand trucks.
  • Processed required paperwork to expedite handling of shipped and received goods.
  • Packed, secured, labeled and applied postage to materials to prepare items for shipment.
  • Sorted and delivered materials to different work areas and staff.
  • Conducted research to address shipping errors and packaging mistakes.

Package Delivery Driver. Lead Driver, Shipping Sor

Lanter Courier
09.1992 - 03.1998
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
  • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions, and make decisions.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.

Enlisted Soldier

US Army
11.1978 - 06.1992
  • Operated and maintained military equipment to ensure operational readiness and safety standards.
  • Executed tactical drills and training exercises to enhance team performance and preparedness.
  • Collaborated with team members to develop strategies for effective mission execution.
  • Conducted risk assessments to identify potential hazards during operations, promoting safety protocols.
  • Assisted in logistics planning for resource allocation and troop movements during deployments.
  • Provided mentorship and guidance to junior soldiers, fostering skill development and teamwork.
  • Analyzed operational data to improve decision-making processes in high-pressure environments.
  • Implemented process improvements that enhanced efficiency in daily operational tasks and mission readiness.
  • Collaborated with fellow service members from other branches during joint exercises, demonstrating adaptability and teamwork capabilities.
  • Operated and maintained armored vehicles.
  • Secured and protected military property, assets, and personnel.
  • Ensured mission readiness by maintaining personal weapons proficiency, scoring highly on annual qualification tests consistently.
  • Achieved mission success by effectively leading a diverse group of soldiers during high-stress situations.
  • Improved team morale by consistently providing clear communication and implementing positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Led security efforts for multiple installations, maintaining a safe environment for all personnel and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive materials.
  • Trained new recruits in essential soldiering skills, fostering a strong foundation for their military careers.
  • Served as an effective liaison between leadership and subordinates, resolving issues promptly and promoting a positive work environment.
  • Reduced equipment loss rates by implementing strict inventory management procedures and conducting regular inspections.
  • Successfully completed multiple deployments in various regions worldwide, adapting to diverse environments and cultures while maintaining peak performance levels.
  • Trained in infantry tactics, weapons and medical procedures for well-rounded field support.
  • Assembled, disassembled and maintained various weapons for operational readiness.
  • Coached and mentored new recruits for motivated, high-performing teams.
  • Performed as fire team member during situational training exercises and infantry dismounted battle drills.
  • Responded calmly and professionally to chemical, biological and nuclear threats.
  • Coordinated patrol operations to maintain safe urban and rural environments.
  • Relayed crucial information and coordinated operations using radio communications equipment.
  • Upheld code of conduct and maintained professionalism in stressful situations.
  • Upheld Branch dress and appearance regulations for professional appearance.
  • Trained in small arms, anti-armor and indirect fire weapons.
  • Maintained required level of proficiency in use of firearms.
  • Trained in conflict resolution among subordinates, equals and superiors.
  • Oversaw utilities manual records to perform stock control and accounting duties.
  • Worked in dirty and uncomfortable conditions, sometimes in dangerous, deployed locations.
  • Looked after weapons by scheduling and performing organizational and preventive maintenance.
  • Served in on-call capacity for last-minute or late-night taskings from leadership.
  • Dealt with inter-company conflicts to remove obstacles to troop readiness.
  • Completed Type program upon receipt of Rank as part of leadership development.

Education

High School Diploma -

Bay View High School
Milwaukee, WI

Skills

Shipping and receiving

Customer service

Product inspection

Record preparation

Speed and agility

Stamina and endurance

Hand-eye coordination

Strong hands

Company policies

Footwork technique

Secure handling

Route running

Physical toughness

Body control

Workstation housekeeping

Stock room

Merchandise identification

Loading and unloading inventory

Punctual and reliable

Effective communication

Warehouse safety

Forklift operation

Time management

Teamwork and cooperation

Package handling

Equipment maintenance

Attention to detail

Self-motivated and independent

Safety procedures

Warehousing operations

Warehouse software systems

Certified forklift driver

Inspection and quality control

Materials transportation

US Driver's license

Merchandise staging

Interpersonal skills

Microsoft Office Suite

Material handling equipment

Load planning

Materials transport

Verbal and written communication

Data entry

Task prioritization

Product knowledge

Hazardous materials handling

Equipment troubleshooting

Workflow optimization

Quality assurance testing

Safety and compliance

Barcode scanning

Shipping and receiving tracking

Pallet jack use

Receiving procedures

Skid building

Problem-solving

Critical thinking

Team player attitude

Cycle counting

Mental toughness

Coachability

Defensive recognition

Software

Microsoft 365 version 10

Interests

Hunting,Fishing, camping Action movies Minor gaming Reading Jack-of-all-trades

Timeline

Warehouse Forklift Operator

Phillips Pet Supply/Central Pet Supply/General Pet Supply
03.2010 - Current

Receiver/Shipper

Kohls Distribution Center
04.2008 - 04.2010

Package Delivery Driver. Lead Driver, Shipping Sor

Lanter Courier
09.1992 - 03.1998

Enlisted Soldier

US Army
11.1978 - 06.1992

High School Diploma -

Bay View High School
Michael PowaliszWarehouse Associate 4