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Distribution Forklift Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Shale Brick, Inc

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Madison, AL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and ... This role is key to maintaining efficient distribution operations while providing excellent service ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Forklift Operator

Knoxville, TN

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator Knoxville, TN General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and ... This role is key to maintaining efficient distribution operations while providing excellent service ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Forklift Operator

Knoxville, TN

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator Knoxville, TN General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and ... This role is key to maintaining efficient distribution operations while providing excellent service ...

General Shale Brick

Forklift Operator

Piedmont, SC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Forklift Operator Upstate, SC General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and ... This role helps ensure efficient distribution operations while providing excellent service to ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Madison, AL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and ... This role is key to maintaining efficient distribution operations while providing excellent service ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Forklift Operator

Piedmont, SC

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Forklift Operator Upstate, SC General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and ... This role helps ensure efficient distribution operations while providing excellent service to ...

General Shale Brick

Forklift Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator Knoxville, TN General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and ... This role is key to maintaining efficient distribution operations while providing excellent service ...

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Distribution Forklift Operator information

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$17

$22

How much do distribution forklift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution 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 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.

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 Distribution Forklift Operators?

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.
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What cities are hiring for Distribution Forklift Operator jobs? Cities with the most Distribution Forklift Operator job openings:
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Distribution Forklift Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution Forklift Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Distribution Warehouse Forklift Operator

Distribution Warehouse Forklift Operator

PetSmart

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$22.80 - $28.18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

PetSmart rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 1,083 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

Job Description
Distribution Warehouse Forklift Operator
About Life at PetSmart
At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed.
Our Distribution Centers are hiring full-time associates for a variety of shifts. PetSmart offers four 10-hour weekday shifts, or three 12-hour weekend shifts. Shifts vary by location and may include shift differential pay. Below is an example of shifts within the Distribution Center:
Morning Shift is Monday - Thursday from 5am - 3:30pm
Afternoon/overnight shift is Monday-Thursday 4pm-2:30am
Weekend Shift is Friday - Sunday from 5am - 5:30pm
Benefits that benefit you
  • Paid weekly
  • 3 and 4-day work weeks
  • Health & Wellness Benefits
  • Shift Differentials
  • Pay for Performance
  • Referral bonus
  • 401k plan with company match
  • Tuition assistance
  • Associate discounts
  • Paid time off
  • Career pathing
  • Development opportunities

Learn more, earn more!
Here at PetSmart, we put YOU in charge of your paycheck and career! We're proud to foster a goal-driven environment where your hard work and results are recognized and rewarded.
  • Step increases: We value your continued growth and development and offer 6 pay increases for your first 24 months!
    • We believe associates do most of their learning and development during the first 2 years of service; therefore, we have a seven-step pay program during this time. This includes 6 automatic wage increases after your starting pay rate. 4 in the first year of service and 2 more in your second year.
  • Pay-for-performance program: Earn up to $4.00 MORE PER HOUR when exceeding productivity goals
  • Team bonus multiplier so when the DC does well, you do well, too!
  • Pay increases with promotions
  • Recommend your friends and family and earn up to $2000 & 4 paid Discretionary Days for additional time off as part of our Associate Referral Bonus Program

The impact you'll make
As a Distribution Forklift Operator (Reach Truck Driver), you will be part of an energetic team environment with the opportunity to work in various positions in our warehouse. Your primary responsibilities will include:
  • Operate stand up reach truck to replenish pallets or product from assigned reserve locations to primary pick locations or assigned dock lanes
  • Consolidate pallets at active locations as needed (FIN - Fork Interleaving used)
  • Resolves routine problems; seeks guidance on solving non-routine problems

What we are looking for
  • Passion for pets and people and the desire to grow a fulfilling career
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Apply basic instructions and procedures and responds to standard requests which may be written, oral, by headset or walkie talkie
  • Ability to bend, twist, stretch, push, pull and carry and lift up to 50 pounds
  • Comfortable alternating between standing, sitting and or walking for an entire shift which is typically 10-12 hours
  • Willing and able to operate powered industrial and mechanical equipment including but not limited to reach truck, standups, dock stocker and pushcarts *proper training and safety standards are provided
  • Work in various temperatures and noise levels

Do what you love
We are delighted you are interested in joining our pack and helping us in our commitment to doing Anything for Pets, and the people who love them. We are excited to hear your story and learn more about you! Apply Now!
PetSmart is an Equal Opportunity Employer
PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. We offer reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout our application process, upon request and as required by law.
*This listing is not an indication that the position is currently open or available. We are continually looking to build a strong network of talented candidates to join our organization and are always accepting applications. Feel free to contact your local PetSmart store to check on which roles they are actively hiring for.
This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work associates/leaders assigned to this job perform. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. You will be provided with a copy of a job description for the actual position you are hired into. Exact rate of pay will be based on relevant experience level, training, skills or knowledge and store location. This position is paid on a per hour basis. In no instance will PetSmart pay less than the local minimum wage. This position is also eligible for benefits as described at https://benefits.petsmart.com/us/
Applicants must be over the age of 18 (except in Montana or where otherwise required by local or state law)
The employer will consider for employment qualified Applicants with Criminal Histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring.
For applicants in our Waterloo, San Francisco, or Los Angeles locations: Pursuant to the Waterloo and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, as well as the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring, we will consider for employment, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with the law.
Pay Details
$22.80 - 28.18
Pay Rate Type
Hourly
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About PetSmart

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. With 50,000+ associates nationwide, we foster a culture grounded in integrity, teamwork, and inclusion - where your voice is heard, your efforts are valued and your career can thrive. Together, we make a difference for pets, their people and each other.

Industry

Retail and legal services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US

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