Forklift Operator
A forklift operator is a skilled professional who operates and maintains small industrial trucks and material handling equipment, primarily in warehouse and manufacturing environments. Their role is crucial in ensuring the efficient movement of large cargo loads and inventory, contributing significantly to the operational effectiveness of various industries, including transportation, construction, and food manufacturing. Typically, a high school diploma is required to enter this field, with on-the-job training lasting about a month, although prior experience in related positions can be beneficial.
Safety procedures are paramount for forklift operators, as improper use of these vehicles can pose serious risks. Their daily responsibilities include receiving and moving materials, inspecting loads for accuracy, conducting routine vehicle maintenance, and reporting any issues with goods. Operators must also possess strong communication and organizational skills, as they frequently collaborate with coworkers to manage the logistics of material transport. The median annual earnings for forklift operators are approximately $44,750, and the job outlook indicates steady demand for skilled workers in this area.
Forklift Operator
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Manufacturing
Interests: Heavy equipment, working with your hands, working outdoors
Earnings (Yearly Median): $44,750 per year $21.51 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 4% (As fast as average)
Entry-Level Education A high school diploma.
Related Work Experience Not required, but operators have usually worked as hoist and winch operators, riggers, signalers, or other construction-related jobs.
On-the-job Training The amount of training depends on the type of machine, but approximately one month is typical. The International Union of Operating Engineers offers training programs for particular equipment.
Overview
Sphere of Work. Forklift operators drive and maintain small industrial trucks and material handlers. In industrial and warehouse settings, industrial and industrial machine operators also use several other types of small-engine and electronic vehicles, including pallet jacks, e-cars, and scissor lifts. Forklift operators are key contributors to the efficiency of warehouses and factories, possessing the ability to move large loads of cargo and inventory without assistance. Misuse of forklifts and other small industrial vehicles can cause great danger to operators and their coworkers, making adherence to safety procedures an integral part of the job.
Work Environment. Forklift operators work in various commercial and industrial settings, such as manufacturing, transportation, warehousing, construction, and contracting. Forklift drivers and industrial vehicle operators also work in mining, farming, and food manufacturing. Shipping and materials transport is one of the largest industries that employ forklift drivers. While some forklift operators use a forklift as a primary facet of their job, others use it and other vehicles to supplement other duties.
Occupation Interest. Forklift operators come from a variety of professional backgrounds. In the staff hierarchy of warehousing and manufacturing facilities, forklift operators traditionally have seniority over entry-level employees and laborers. Many have worked their way up from entry-level positions in warehousing, storage, or materials handling. Other workers utilize the position to gain experience and become better candidates for future warehouse supervisor or facilities management vacancies.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. The day-to-day responsibilities of forklift operators are primarily focused on receiving and moving materials. Operators in the manufacturing industry are responsible for the intake of supplies used to manufacture goods and objects. Once materials have been delivered to their proper location in production, another group of operators stages finished goods for shipment. Operators must also be aware of any hazards related to goods they are moving, such as chemicals.
Forklift and small vehicle operators in the construction industry deliver building materials throughout job sites. In addition to transporting loads, forklift operators are often responsible for inspecting loads for accuracy and ensuring they are stored in the proper location. Forklift drivers are also responsible for reporting damaged items and other quality discrepancies to relevant staff members.
Forklift operators may also be required to conduct routine maintenance on their vehicles. Such tasks include engine maintenance, monitoring tire pressure, evaluating hydraulic and lifting systems, and testing brakes, lights, and mirrors to ensure proper function.
Tractor Operators (929.638-014). Tractor operators drive a gasoline or diesel-powered tractor to move materials, pull out objects embedded in the ground, or pull the winch cable to raise, lower, or load heavy material.
Logging Tractor Operators (929.683-010). Logging Tractor Operators drive tractors with hoisting racks, crane booms, bulldozer blades, or other devices to load or unload logs, pull stumps, or clear brush.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Forklift operators work in various environments, including warehouses, shipping facilities, factories, trade centers, ports, and manufacturing facilities. Commercial and industrial settings predominate. They also work in and around construction sites and select retail facilities. Those working in food processing may work in cold-storage facilities, while workers outdoors may have to contend with variable weather conditions.
Human Environment. Forklift operation requires strong collaboration, organization, and communication skills. Professionals in this field interact with fellow workers on a near-constant basis, communicating the location, amount, and type of materials that must be transported.
Technological Environment. In addition to using forklifts and other small motorized vehicles, forklift operators must be able to use shipment-tracking software, inventory-processing systems, and various hand tools such as utility knives, skid steers, and mobile stairs.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students can best prepare for a career in materials transport with geometry, chemistry, physics, and introductory computer science courses. English and writing classes help students prepare for the communication and problem-solving aspects of the occupation.
Postsecondary. Postsecondary coursework is not a prerequisite for a career as a forklift operator.
Related Occupations
− Freight, Stock and Material Mover
Bibliography
“Material Moving Machine Operators.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/material-moving-machine-operators.htm. Accessed 22 Aug. 2024.
"Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023 53-0000 Transportation and Material Moving Occupations (Major Group)." US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational and Wage Statistics, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes530000.htm. Accessed 22 Aug. 2024.