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Entry Level Forklift Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Driver - 1st shift (M-F, 7am-3pm)

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Driver About Novares Novares is a global automotive supplier that designs and manufactures ... Level of Experience: Entry-Level Type of Contract: ATW - At Will Contract Required Travel: N/A All ...

Forklift Driver - 1st shift (M-F, 7am-3pm)

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Driver About NovaresNovares is a global automotive supplier that designs and manufactures ... Level of Experience: Entry-Level Type of Contract: ATW - At Will Contract Required Travel: N/A All ...

Forklift Driver DAL

Dallas, TX

$18.45/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Currently hiring a Forklift Operator for 1st Shift, Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM YOU'LL LOVE ... Many of our leaders started out in entry level positions. * Are physically able to work 8 hours a ...

Forklift Driver PHX

Tolleson, AZ · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Currently hiring a Forklift Operator for 1st Shift, Monday to Friday, 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM YOU'LL LOVE ... Many of our leaders started out in entry level positions. * Are physically able to work 8 hours a ...

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 ...

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Entry Level Forklift Driver information

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$11

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$22

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

As of Aug 17, 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.
More about Entry Level Forklift Driver jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Forklift Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Forklift Driver job openings:

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

The most popular types of Forklift Driver jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Forklift Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Forklift Driver jobs include:

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, 67% Full Time, 30% 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.

Forklift Driver-Entry Level to Experienced (Night Shift)

DSV

West Branch, IA • On-site

$19.30/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


DSV rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 364 rated logistics


Job description

Forklift Driver-Entry Level to Experienced (Night Shift)

Location: USA - West Branch, 160 Fawcett Drive

Division: Solutions

Job Posting Title: Forklift Driver-Entry Level to Experienced (Night Shift)

Time Type: Full Time

Compensation: $19.30/hr + Shift Differential $1/hr Production Incentives up to additional $5/hr Sign On Bonus ($500)

Schedule: This is a 12 hour night shift (6pm-6am) on a 2 day on -2 day off -3 day on type schedule

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating power industrial trucks for the purpose of moving, locating, relocating, stacking, and counting merchandise. The operator is accountable for the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle and may also be required to perform Order Filler and Checker duties in addition to his or her own. They are responsible for the accurate storing, shipping and receiving of product to meet company standards of safety, security, and productivity. As part of the DSV team, Associates are expected to meet company objectives in the areas of performance, safety, and quality. Associates are expected to comply with all corporate and site-specific policies and may be required to perform any combination of the following.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Receiving/Put-Away: Unload inbound shipments safely and move product to storage locations. Input data accurately into WMS. Efficiently stack and store product in appropriate area. Maintain an organized work area.
  • Order Picking: Pull and prepare for shipment, ensuring that the exact number and type of product is loaded and shipped. Perform picking duties in an efficient manner that meets customer service standards. Prepare freight for operations accurately and in a timely manner as required.
  • Quality: Ensure inbound and outbound shipments are accurate and free of damage. Report quality variances
  • Delivery: Efficiently moves product form staging and/or storage to production lines and/or staging docks. Proper documentation must accompany freight.
  • Inventory: Keep appropriate records and reports to guarantee that tight inventory control and security are maintained. Assist in physical inventories. Ensure proper stock rotation.
  • Safety, Housekeeping, and Compliance: Maintain a clean, neat, orderly work area, and assist in security of the warehouse Will comply with all Standard Operating Procedures, corporate and site-specific policies Load, unload, move, stack, and stage product and materials using a forklift, clamp truck, drum attachment, or other power equipment. Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion. On a daily basis, inspect and perform minor maintenance on the forklift or other equipment. Operate all equipment in a safe and efficient manner following prescribed work methods. Associates must maintain an active forklift certification.
  • Maintenance: Perform or assist in building, grounds, and equipment maintenance as assigned.

OTHER DUTIES (Site Specific)

  • Change fuel tanks on forklifts as needed: participate in physical inventories; perform labeling, sorting, wrapping, packing, and repacking as needed
  • Repair pallets when necessary, trailers, and truck bays as requested.
  • Help maintain the facility to provide a clean, safe work environment.
  • Performs other duties as required
  • Work overtime as dictated by business whether mandatory or voluntary

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Education and/or Experience Must have a high school diploma or general education degree (GED). 6 months experience working in a logistics/distribution/relevant environment. Able to operate MHE Must be able to work in unregulated temperatures within the warehouse during the warmer and colder months can range from mild to moderate
  • Certificates, Licenses, Registrations or Professional Designations Satisfactory completion of a forklift training program

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

  • Computer Skills Basic computer skills RF Scanners WMS functions
  • Language Skills English (reading, writing, verbal)
  • Mathematical Skills Basic to intermediate level to verify quantities of product, count inventory, or perform other duties associated with handling, storing and distributing client products.
  • Other Strong attention to detail accuracy and accomplish job task in a timely manner. Ability to perform duties with minimal supervision or guidance Must be able to effectively adapt to change and thrive in a stimulating, fast-paced work environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 1-2 years' experience working in a warehouse/logistics/distribution environment
  • 1-2 years forklift experience.
  • Current or prior MHE certification

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Occasionally Handling/Fingering, Sitting
  • Frequently Bending
  • Constantly Walking and Standing
  • Ability to Lift/Carry and Push/Pull 21-50 pounds
  • Reach above shoulder, reach outward, squat, or kneel.
  • Other Physical Requirements:

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee rarely is exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

For this position, the expected base pay range is $19.30 – $21.80 Hourly. Actual compensation will be determined based on job-related factors such as relevant experience, skills, education, certifications, and geographic location, in accordance with applicable laws and company policy.

Information regarding DSV's benefits offerings, including eligibility, coverage options, and plan details, is available through the DSV Benefits Showcase. Benefits, programs, and eligibility may vary by location and division in accordance with applicable state and local laws.

DSV is an equal employment opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, ancestry, disability, veteran status, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. If you require special assistance or accommodation while seeking employment with DSV, please contact Human Resources at hr@us.dsv.com.


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