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Entry Level Forklift Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Purpose The Production Forklift Driver is responsible for supporting safe, efficient, and accurate ... Good math, language, and reading skills (Required) * Entry-level proficiency with technology ...

Forklift Driver

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

Forklift Driver

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

Forklift Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Purpose The Production Forklift Driver is responsible for supporting safe, efficient, and accurate ... Good math, language, and reading skills (Required) * Entry-level proficiency with technology ...

Forklift Driver

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

Forklift Driver

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

Forklift Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Purpose The Production Forklift Driver is responsible for supporting safe, efficient, and accurate ... Good math, language, and reading skills (Required) * Entry-level proficiency with technology ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Forklift Driver information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do entry level forklift driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level forklift driver 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 is an entry level forklift driver?

Entry level forklift drivers are workers who operate forklifts and other warehouse equipment, typically with little to no prior experience in the field. Their main responsibilities include moving, loading, and unloading materials within warehouses, factories, or storage yards. They are usually required to obtain forklift certification, follow safety protocols, and assist with inventory management. Entry level positions often provide on-the-job training to help new drivers gain the necessary skills and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level forklift driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Forklift Driver, you need a valid forklift operator certification, basic understanding of warehouse procedures, and good physical stamina. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and various forklift models is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These abilities are essential for ensuring workplace safety, efficient inventory movement, and smooth operations in busy warehouse environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level forklift drivers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level forklift drivers often face challenges such as learning to maneuver the forklift safely in tight warehouse spaces and adapting to fast-paced environments. It can also be demanding to manage time efficiently while prioritizing safety and accuracy. To address these challenges, new drivers benefit from thorough training, seeking guidance from experienced team members, and consistently following safety protocols. Open communication with supervisors and participating in ongoing safety meetings can also support skill development and confidence.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forklift Driver vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectEntry Level Forklift DriverWarehouse Associate
CertificationsForklift certification often requiredGenerally no specific certification needed
Work EnvironmentOperate forklifts in warehouses or distribution centersPerform various tasks including inventory and packing in warehouses
Job DutiesTransport materials using forkliftsAssist with inventory, packing, and shipping
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, distributionWidespread across retail, manufacturing, logistics

While both roles are essential in warehouse settings, an Entry Level Forklift Driver specializes in operating forklifts and requires specific certification, whereas a Warehouse Associate performs broader tasks like inventory management and packing without necessarily needing forklift certification.

How much do entry level forklift drivers get paid?

Entry-level forklift drivers typically earn between $12 and $17 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the industry. Starting salaries may increase with certifications such as OSHA forklift training and experience operating different types of forklifts.

How much do entry level forklift drivers make?

Entry-level forklift drivers typically earn between $12 and $17 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the industry. Starting salaries may increase with certifications such as OSHA forklift training and experience operating different types of forklifts.

Is it hard to get an entry level forklift driver job with no experience?

Entry level forklift driver positions often do not require prior experience, but obtaining a forklift certification can improve chances of hiring. Employers typically look for basic safety knowledge and the ability to operate the equipment safely, which can be learned on the job or through training programs. Having a clean driving record and physical ability to handle warehouse environments also helps in securing such roles.
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Forklift Driver jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Forklift Driver jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Forklift Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Entry Level Forklift Operator I (Manheim)

Cox Communications, Inc.

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$15.10 - $22.69/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Cox Communications rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 101 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

Company
Cox Automotive - USA
Job Family Group
Vehicle Operations
Job Profile
Forklift Operator I
Management Level
Individual Contributor
Flexible Work Option
No remote option; must work at a specified Cox location
Travel %
No
Work Shift
Day
Compensation
Hourly base pay rate is $15.10 - $22.69/hour. The hourly base rate may vary within the anticipated range based on factors such as the ultimate location of the position and the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities. Position may be eligible for additional compensation that may include commission (annual, monthly, etc.) and/or an incentive program.
Job Description
Job Details:
  • Safely load, unload, rearrange, and maneuver Forklift/Loader with 18-foot forks throughout the auction lot
  • Read stock numbers on the computer screen and verify the stock number and vehicle information directly from vehicle before loading onto forks
  • Move vehicles to inventory staging, sale stalls, or storage as determined by lot location paperwork or computer screens
  • Operates tow truck, service vehicle, gas truck and forklift on the auction lot and in different locations as needed.
  • Move vehicles into the garage or other sheltered areas for insurance inspections, vehicle repairs, or as requested by the supervisor
  • Load vehicles on transports or fleet trucks for transportation off of the lot
  • May need to present data to other teams and management.
  • Operates a tow truck to provide tow service to customer vehicles on the SAAA parking lot and in different locations as needed. May require the use of dollies.
  • Operates a front-end loader to provide a loading and unloading service for the customers. As well as move vehicles around the lot for auction shops.
  • Properly affixes tow truck and front-end loader to vehicle needing tow, assuring that the vehicle will not be damaged or cause any danger to others in the towing process. Releases vehicle from the tow truck and assures that vehicle is left in a safe, immobile manner.
  • In a safe and courteous manner, hauls vehicles to directed areas.
  • Scans every towed vehicle using the TC75 to the location where the vehicle has been delivered.
  • Assists employees and customers with towing and jump-starting vehicle battery, as requested via phone or in person.
  • As appropriate, assist in unlocking customer vehicles, jump-starting, or locating using Lot Vision.
  • Tows vehicles requiring towing service to the Mechanic shop as requested.
  • Removes customer and employee vehicles parked incorrectly or in unsafe manner to customer lot as requested.
  • Performs routine maintenance checks on tow truck and front-end loader to have (i.e., oil changes, lubes, filter changes, tire changes).
  • Operate truck and front-end loader in compliance with safety regulations.
  • May assist lot operations when not operating tow truck and in sale day activities.
  • Visibly demonstrate safety commitment by following all safety and health procedures and modeling the behaviors related to such. Actively participate in support of all safety activities aligned with Safety Excellence.
  • Run reports to move vehicles into the sale TRA area for auction.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management.
  • May be required to work overtime as business needs dictate.

Minimum Requirements:
  • High School Diploma/GED preferred, OR less than 2 years of related work experience.
  • Safe drivers needed; valid driver's license required.

Benefits
Employees are eligible to receive a minimum of sixteen hours of paid time off every month and seven paid holidays throughout the calendar year. Employees are also eligible for additional paid time off in the form of bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.
About Us
Through groundbreaking technology and a commitment to stellar experiences for drivers and dealers alike, Cox Automotive employees are transforming the way the world buys, owns, sells - or simply uses - cars. Cox Automotive employees get to work on iconic consumer brands like Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book and industry-leading dealer-facing companies like vAuto and Manheim, all while enjoying the people-centered atmosphere that is central to our life at Cox. Benefits of working at Cox may include health care insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement planning (401(k)), and paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, flexible vacation/wellness days, and/or PTO). For more details on what benefits you may be offered, visit our benefits page. Cox is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer - All qualified applicants/employees will receive consideration for employment without regard to that individual's age, race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law. Cox provides reasonable accommodations when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with disability, unless such accommodations would cause an undue hardship.
EOE, including disability/vets
Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship. No OPT, CPT, STEM/OPT or visa sponsorship now or in future.

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About Cox Communications

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cox Communications is the largest private telecom company in America, serving six million homes and businesses. That's a lot, but we also proudly serve our employees. Our benefits and our award-winning culture are just two of the things that make Cox a coveted place to work. If you're interested in bringing people closer through broadband, smart home tech and more, join Cox Communications today! Cox empowers employees to build a better future and has been doing so for over 120 years. With exciting investments and innovations across transportation, communications, cleantech and healthcare, our family of businesses - which includes Cox Automotive and Cox Communications - is forging a better future for us all. Ready to make your mark?

Industry

Media and telecom

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US