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1St Shift Forklift Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TeamSoft

1st Shift Forklift Operator

Bethlehem, PA · On-site

$19.50/hr

1st Shift Forklift Operator Peoplelink Staffing, in partnership with a prominent manufacturing company in the Bethlehem, PA area , is seeking an experienced 1st Shift Forklift Operator to join their ...

Integrity Trade Services

1st shift Forklift

Portage, IN · On-site

$17/hr

Forklift, sit-down forklift, forklift operator skills * Attention to safety and quality standards ... Title: 1st shift Forklift Employment Type: Contract Pay Rate: $17.00 Salary: $0.00 Pay Unit: N/A ...

The Ōnin Group

1st Shift forklift operator

Kyle, TX · On-site

$21/hr

Affordable health insurance you can actually use, including $5 copays, $5 prescriptions, and free Telehealth services What you'll do as: 1st Shift Forklift Operator * Safely operate forklifts and ...

American Wood Fibers

Forklift Operator - 1st Shift

Pella, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

1st Shift Forklift Operator American Wood Fibers (AWF) is a manufacturer of both consumer and industrial products that are sold to multiple manufacturers as well as pet, agricultural, and home ...

Midway Staffing

1st Shift Forklift

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

1st Shift Forklift Bartlett, Illinois Warehouse & Logistics Temporary On-Site Posted 14 hours, 31 ... This position is responsible for safely operating warehouse equipment, collecting products, and ...

Hamilton-Ryker

1st Shift Forklift Operator

Martin, TN · On-site

$14/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 1st Shift Pay : $14 per hour Join Our Team as a 1st Shift Shipping Forklift Operator! Are you a dedicated forklift operator looking for a steady, daytime role where your ...

Next Level Staffing

Be Seen First

Forklift Operators 1st/2nd shift

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Scrap yard located in Milwaukee is first shift forklift operator's to join their team Must have forklift experience and have resume.

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How much do 1st shift forklift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st shift forklift operator in the United States is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a 1st shift forklift operator do?

A 1st Shift Forklift Operator is responsible for operating forklifts and other warehouse equipment to move, locate, stack, and count merchandise during the first work shift of the day, typically starting in the early morning and ending in the afternoon. Their duties include loading and unloading goods from trucks, transporting materials within the warehouse, and ensuring products are stored safely and accurately. They also perform routine equipment checks and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. 1st Shift Forklift Operators play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and organization of warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges faced by 1st shift forklift operators, and how can they be managed?

1st Shift Forklift Operators often face challenges such as maintaining focus during busy early morning hours, managing tight schedules, and safely navigating crowded warehouse spaces. Staying alert and adhering strictly to safety protocols is essential, especially when working alongside other team members or when loading and unloading materials in high-traffic zones. Building good communication with supervisors and co-workers helps ensure tasks are coordinated efficiently, which can reduce stress and improve workflow. Over time, familiarity with the layout and processes of the facility makes these challenges easier to manage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st shift forklift operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Shift Forklift Operator, you need a valid forklift operator certification, knowledge of warehouse safety protocols, and experience in material handling. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and different types of forklifts is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient movement of goods and smooth warehouse operations during high-activity shifts.

What is the difference between 1St Shift Forklift Operator vs 2nd Shift Forklift Operator?

Aspect1St Shift Forklift Operator2nd Shift Forklift Operator
CertificationsForklift certification requiredForklift certification required
Work EnvironmentDaytime warehouse or distribution centerEvening or night warehouse or distribution center
Employer UsageSame employer, different shiftsSame employer, different shifts

Both 1St Shift Forklift Operators and 2nd Shift Forklift Operators require similar certifications and work in warehouse environments. The primary difference lies in their work hours, with 1st shift typically starting in the morning and 2nd shift in the evening or night. Employers often hire for both shifts to ensure 24-hour operations, but the roles are similar in responsibilities and qualifications.

What cities are hiring for 1St Shift Forklift Operator jobs?

Cities with the most 1St Shift Forklift Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Forklift Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Forklift Operator jobs are:

What states have the most 1St Shift Forklift Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for 1St Shift Forklift Operator jobs include:

1St Shift Forklift Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Shift Forklift Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

1st Shift Forklift Operator

TeamSoft

Bethlehem, PA • On-site

$19.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

1st Shift Forklift Operator
Peoplelink Staffing, in partnership with a prominent manufacturing company in the Bethlehem, PA area, is seeking an experienced 1st Shift Forklift Operator to join their team! This is an on-site opportunity offering consistent hours and the potential for long-term employment.
Forklift Operator Job Summary
  • Pay: $19.50 per hour (W2)
  • Shift: 1st Shift - 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM
  • Hours: 40 hours per week
  • Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire
Responsibilities
  • Operate a forklift to safely move raw materials throughout the plant.
  • Move finished goods and stage customer orders for shipment.
  • Receive, organize, and store raw materials.
  • Participate in inventory cycle counts.
  • Follow production and shipping schedules.
  • Work effectively in a team-based manufacturing environment.
  • Follow all applicable SOPs and Work Instructions.
  • Perform quality inspections and document results as required.
  • Report quality, manufacturing, or health and safety concerns to the Operations Supervisor or Shift Supervisor.
  • Assist the Shipper/Receiver and Team Leaders as needed.
  • Follow all company safety guidelines and procedures.
  • Maintain assigned work areas according to 5S standards.
  • Work in accordance with lean manufacturing practices.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Forklift Operator Qualifications
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Previous manufacturing or warehouse experience preferred.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with team members and supervisors.
  • Current forklift certification/license required.
  • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to safely operate a forklift and follow all workplace safety procedures.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing ERP systems is preferred.
Why Peoplelink Staffing?
  • Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance available
  • 401(k) available after reaching hours-worked requirement
  • Direct Deposit Programs
  • Consistent 1st Shift schedule
  • Contract-to-Hire opportunity

Peoplelink Staffing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.
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