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Distribution Forklift Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Forklift Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Forklift Operator will properly operate powered industrial trucks to load and unload materials ... Warehouse distribution environment experience preferred Knowledge and Skills: * Previously licensed ...

Forklift Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

The Forklift Operator will properly operate powered industrial trucks to load and unload materials ... Warehouse distribution environment experience preferred Knowledge and Skills: * Previously licensed ...

Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Maersk Logistics & Services USA, Inc. handles end-to-end warehousing and distribution logistics ... The Forklift Operator oversees loading & unloading materials utilizing a hand truck, reach truck ...

Forklift Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Forklift Operator will properly operate powered industrial trucks to load and unload materials ... Warehouse distribution environment experience preferred Knowledge and Skills: * Previously licensed ...

Forklift Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Forklift Operator will properly operate powered industrial trucks to load and unload materials ... Warehouse distribution environment experience preferred Knowledge and Skills: * Previously licensed ...

Forklift Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Forklift Operator will properly operate powered industrial trucks to load and unload materials ... Warehouse distribution environment experience preferred Knowledge and Skills: * Previously licensed ...

Our Forklift Operator is responsible for pulling product from weekly distribution requests using a Sit down Forklift or Order Picker. Other duties may include but not limited to, shipping and ...

Our Forklift Operator is responsible for pulling product from weekly distribution requests using a Sit down Forklift or Order Picker. Other duties may include but not limited to, shipping and ...

iStaffing Chino is currently hiring experienced Stand-Up Reach Forklift Operators for a fast-paced distribution warehouse in Chino, CA. We have immediate openings on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts ...

Forklift Operator 2nd Shift

Fontana, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Our Forklift Operator is responsible for pulling product from weekly distribution requests using a Sit down Forklift or Order Picker. Other duties may include but not limited to, shipping and ...

Forklift Operator 2nd Shift

Fontana, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Our Forklift Operator is responsible for pulling product from weekly distribution requests using a Sit down Forklift or Order Picker. Other duties may include but not limited to, shipping and ...

Forklift Operator 2nd Shift

Fontana, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Our Forklift Operator is responsible for pulling product from weekly distribution requests using a Sit down Forklift or Order Picker. Other duties may include but not limited to, shipping and ...

Our Forklift Operator is responsible for pulling product from weekly distribution requests using a Sit down Forklift or Order Picker. Other duties may include but not limited to, shipping and ...

Our Forklift Operator is responsible for pulling product from weekly distribution requests using a Sit down Forklift or Order Picker. Other duties may include but not limited to, shipping and ...

Seasonal Forklift Operator 2nd Shift

Fontana, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Our Forklift Operator is responsible for pulling product from weekly distribution requests using a Sit down Forklift or Order Picker. Other duties may include but not limited to, shipping and ...

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Showing results 41-60

Distribution Forklift Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

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$18

$23

How much do distribution forklift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution forklift operator in Riverside, CA is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.05 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 Riverside, CA?

For Distribution Forklift Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Distribution Forklift Operator jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Distribution Forklift Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Distribution Forklift Operator jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Distribution Forklift Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Distribution Forklift Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,703 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Ontario, CA • On-site

Ventura Foods
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate powered industrial trucks to load, unload, and move materials and finished goods within the warehouse.

  • Use RF scanners and verify load sheets, code dates, and labels to ensure accurate product transactions and prevent product damage.

  • Perform pre-operation inspections of forklifts, change and charge batteries, and ensure compliance with food safety policies and GMPs.


Ventura Foods rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Employment Type: Hourly 
Work Designation: Onsite
Shift: Third 

Position Summary:

The Forklift Operator will properly operate powered industrial trucks to load and unload materials and FGs and to move them to and from storage areas. Products will be listed and stacked as required. Use RF scanner to ensure accurate transactions of product movement.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate the RF hand held scanner
  • Using load sheet, verify carrier and pallet quantity before loading on truck trailer. Inspect pallets to prevent product damage and missing cases. Inspect all trailers to ensure cleanliness and compliance with GMPs
  • Unload packaging and branch transfer products from trailers. Complete load sheet. Verify code dates and label allergen
  • Perform pre-op inspection of forklift before operation. Change, inspect and charge batteries per standard operating procedures (SOPs) and document changes
  • Check assigned aisles in warehouse to ensure they are clean and well maintained
  • Operate the pallet inverter or pallet changer when necessary
  • Operate stretch wrap machine when necessary
  • Put away pallets of FG from production lines or receiving dock
  • Responsible for following all food safety policies, procedures and regulatory criteria including the current SQF code, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and associated preventive controls
  • Other duties as assigned
Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 1 year of experience
  • Warehouse distribution environment experience preferred
Knowledge and Skills:
  • Previously licensed/certified as a forklift driver and must be able to pass skills test for license/certification as well as written test for sit down and stand up forklift
  • Good math skills are required
  • Must be able to read, write and communicate effectively
  • Must be able to identify and report any food safety and food security concerns

Why Join Us:
Ventura Foods innovates and manufactures food solutions for foodservice and retail businesses.  We make exclusive products for the world's most iconic restaurants and retailers, we provide ready-to-go product solutions for professional kitchens, and we make consumer brands everyone knows and loves.  When you work for Ventura Foods, you get a strong foundation of training, a manager who cares about you and celebrates your success, a safe environment, and challenging work.  As part of our team, your future is limited only by how much you’re willing to push yourself to get there. We invest in your growth because you invest in ours.  

Ventura Foods offers career growth opportunities as well as competitive compensation and benefits:​

  • Retirement savings options
  • Employee Appreciation Events​ and Employee Assistance Programs
  • On-the-job training

Physical Demands:
All jobs require sufficient physical strength and dexterity to perform the required task(s) and typically also require at a minimum: intermittent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, squatting, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.  Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds or more with assistance may also be required.  Please see the job description for specific requirements.

Work Environment:
Please see the job description for specific requirements of the position for which you are applying.

Typical shifts are 8-12 hours per day.   Additional unscheduled time after hours and on weekends may also be required.  Employees must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment as required by Company policy and/or legal requirements.  In addition, certain jobs may require employees to:


Work outside and/or in adverse temperatures which could include extreme heat, cold, and humidity;
Be exposed to vibrations, chemicals used in operations, fumes and food allergens (may include soy, dairy and other allergens); and
Be required to work in confined and dark spaces, and at heights in excess of 18 feet.

Our Culture
Our Culture reflects our commitment to treating every employee with respect and creating an environment where people can do their best work. We rely on a variety of strengths, backgrounds, and experiences across our teams to help us innovate, grow, and deliver for our customers. By fostering a workplace that is supportive, collaborative, and grounded in integrity, we continue to attract strong talent and meet the high expectations of a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Ventura Foods is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.


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