1

Distribution Forklift Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Production Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Record amounts of product received or distributed via appropriate computer program * Picking and ... Possess or able to pass exam to obtain Forklift Operators certification and demonstrate ability to ...

Production Operator

Durham, NC

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Record amounts of product received or distributed via appropriate computer program * Picking and ... Possess or able to pass exam to obtain Forklift Operators certification and demonstrate ability to ...

Reach Truck Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $19.50/hr

Reach Truck Operator Kitchen Cabinet Distributors (KCD) is one of the country's fastest-growing ... May operate a forklift, reach truck, or other machinery to complete tasks. * Receives, counts and ...

Receiving Associate

Wendell, NC · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Non-Management JOB SUMMARY KIOTI Tractor is looking for Heavy Duty Forklift Operators who will be ... EDUCATIONAL AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS * 5+ years in warehouse distribution experience * High School ...

Warehouse/Cooler Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

High school diploma or equivalent 0 to 1 year of warehouse, distribution, production, or related experience Certification and/or License - may require forklift, walk behind jack, or other related ...

Warehouse/Cooler Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

... distribution, production, or related experience Certification and/or License - may require forklift, walk behind jack, or other related work certifications KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Able to ...

Warehouse/Cooler Operator

Raleigh, NC

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

... distribution, production, or related experience Certification and/or License - may require forklift, walk behind jack, or other related work certifications KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Able to ...

Warehouse/Cooler Operator

Raleigh, NC

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

... distribution, production, or related experience Certification and/or License - may require forklift, walk behind jack, or other related work certifications KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Able to ...

CNS Warehouse Team Leader

Raleigh, NC

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Two years of distribution experience driving a 24' or greater size truck; Two years of warehouse ... as a forklift operator; Within 60 days of employment, successfully complete Child Nutrition ...

Showing results 41-60

Distribution Forklift Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do distribution forklift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution forklift operator in Raleigh, NC is $17.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a distribution forklift operator?

Distribution Forklift Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating forklifts and other material handling equipment in warehouses or distribution centers. Their main duties include loading and unloading goods, moving products within storage areas, stacking pallets, and ensuring that materials are stored safely and efficiently. They must follow safety guidelines and maintain accurate records of inventory movements. Forklift operators play a crucial role in keeping supply chains running smoothly by ensuring products are handled with care and delivered to the right locations on time.

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

To thrive as a Distribution Forklift Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, attention to safety protocols, and a valid forklift operator certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), inventory tracking software, and various types of forklifts is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating with colleagues and maintaining a safe work environment. These skills ensure efficient material handling, minimize workplace accidents, and support the smooth operation of distribution processes.

What are some common challenges faced by distribution forklift operators, and how can they be addressed?

Distribution Forklift Operators often face challenges such as navigating busy warehouse environments, managing time efficiently during peak shipping periods, and ensuring safety while handling heavy loads. To address these issues, operators benefit from regular safety training, clear communication with team members, and familiarity with warehouse layouts. Many companies also implement technology such as inventory management systems and real-time tracking to support operators in staying organized and minimizing errors.

What is the difference between Distribution Forklift Operator vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectDistribution Forklift OperatorWarehouse Associate
CertificationsForklift certification requiredBasic warehouse safety training
Work EnvironmentOperate forklifts in distribution centersAssist with inventory and packing tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesMoving pallets, loading/unloadingStocking, packing, order picking

The Distribution Forklift Operator primarily focuses on operating forklifts to move and organize goods within distribution centers, requiring specific forklift certifications. In contrast, a Warehouse Associate handles a broader range of tasks like stocking and packing, often without specialized equipment operation. Both roles are essential in logistics but differ in equipment use and specific duties.

Which distribution forklift operator job pays the most?

Distribution forklift operators in roles that require specialized skills, such as operating high-capacity or narrow-aisle forklifts, or those working in high-demand industries like pharmaceuticals or electronics, tend to earn higher wages. Additionally, experienced operators with certifications such as OSHA forklift licenses and those working overtime or night shifts often receive higher pay. Salary varies by location, company, and level of experience, but advanced skills and certifications generally lead to higher compensation for forklift operators.

What are popular job titles related to Distribution Forklift Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Distribution Forklift Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Distribution Forklift Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Distribution Forklift Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Distribution Forklift Operator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Distribution Forklift Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Distribution Forklift Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,062 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

FT Inbound Freight Handler

Southeastern Freight Lines

Durham, NC • On-site

$29.70 - $34.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Southeastern Freight Lines rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

As a FT Inbound Freight Handler, you will load and unload freight onto and off of equipment, as well as assist in the recouping of damaged freight.
Prepare, sweep, inspect and cleans trailer(s) before loading freight. Use safe lifting techniques to properly load and unload freight. Select and use proper freight handling equipment to load and unload freight. Such equipment may include forklifts with appropriate hardware, hand trucks, drum trucks, pallet jacks, rollers, and any other available equipment to move, load, arrange, rearrange, and unload freight. Weigh and dimension shipments to ensure proper classification, freight rating, and safe handling. Plan cube utilization and proper weight distribution when loading freight. Count and inspect the condition of freight, documenting any shortages or damage. Review freight bills for special instructions. Check manifests for existing exceptions and check the label and the destination code on manifests against freight bills. Check for special instructions, weight distributions on headloads, and check headloads against the freight bills when loading freight. Verify the hazardous material product description, determine any discrepancies in the paperwork, and verify proper placarding when loading hazardous material. Properly block and brace freight to prevent shifting during transport.
For this role, we prefer you have a High School Diploma or GED. You must have the ability to satisfactorily pass a background check and an alcohol and drug test. We would prefer for you to have prior experience as a Forklift Operator, Dock or Warehouse Worker, or Material Handler. We would also prefer you to have previously held a Forklift Certification. Pay: $29.70-$34.50 Per Hour Job Type: Full-Time
Work Shift
Third Shift
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZc1A8aeshc

What Southeastern Freight Lines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Southeastern Freight Lines logo

About Southeastern Freight Lines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Southeastern Freight Lines is a freight transportation company based in Lexington, SC, US. The company operates in the trucking and transportation industry, specializing in customized solutions for regional less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation services. Founded in 1950 by W.T. Cassels, Southeastern Freight Lines initially served a number of states in the southeastern United States. Through the years, the company has significantly expanded, now providing comprehensive transportation solutions all over the continent. Adhering to their mission of meeting or exceeding the needs of every customer – every single time, the company takes pride in consistently delivering top-tier service. Notable achievements include groundbreaking customer service technologies and winning multiple quality awards in their industry.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, SC, US

Year founded

1950

Social media