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Entry Level Forklift Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Mountaire Corporation

Materials Clerk

Selbyville, DE · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

High School Diploma or GED. * Entry level. * Forklift license and pallet jack certification ... We maintain the same core values and family-focused work environment that we've operated with since ...

Mountaire Corporation

Materials Clerk

Millsboro, DE · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

High School Diploma or GED. * Entry level. * Forklift license and pallet jack certification ... We maintain the same core values and family-focused work environment that we've operated with since ...

Mountaire Farms

Materials Clerk

Selbyville, DE · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

High School Diploma or GED. * Entry level. * Forklift license and pallet jack certification ... We maintain the same core values and family-focused work environment that we've operated with since ...

Mountaire Corporation

Materials Clerk

Selbyville, DE · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

High School Diploma or GED. * Entry level. * Forklift license and pallet jack certification ... We maintain the same core values and family-focused work environment that we've operated with since ...

Mountaire Farms

Materials Clerk

Selbyville, DE

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

High School Diploma or GED. * Entry level. * Forklift license and pallet jack certification ... We maintain the same core values and family-focused work environment that we've operated with since ...

Mountaire Corporation

Materials Clerk

Selbyville, DE

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

High School Diploma or GED. * Entry level. * Forklift license and pallet jack certification ... We maintain the same core values and family-focused work environment that we've operated with since ...

Mountaire Farms

Materials Clerk

Millsboro, DE · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

High School Diploma or GED. * Entry level. * Forklift license and pallet jack certification ... We maintain the same core values and family-focused work environment that we've operated with since ...

Mountaire

Rendering Operator

Millsboro, DE · On-site

$18.20/hr

Primary Purpose: Entry level, does not possess recognized certification. Handles routine operations ... Must possess the appropriate certification to operate a forklift and/or skid steer loaders. * Must ...

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Entry Level Forklift Operator information

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$17

$22

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level forklift operator in Delaware is $17.85, 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 operator?

Entry level forklift operators are workers who operate forklifts and other industrial trucks to move materials around warehouses, storage yards, or construction sites, typically with minimal prior experience in the field. Their main duties include loading and unloading goods, transporting items to designated areas, and performing basic equipment checks. They work under supervision and may receive on-the-job training to learn safety protocols and efficient handling. This position is ideal for individuals new to warehouse or logistics work who are looking to gain experience and skills in material handling.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Forklift Operator, you need basic knowledge of warehouse operations, attention to safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often accompanied by forklift certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and various types of forklifts is typically required. Reliability, strong communication, and a keen sense of spatial awareness are standout soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient material handling and help maintain smooth warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges new forklift operators face in their first few months on the job?

New forklift operators often find adapting to warehouse layouts and understanding safety protocols to be challenging at first. Learning to maneuver forklifts in tight spaces while maintaining awareness of pedestrians and other machinery requires focus and practice. Additionally, mastering load balancing and proper stacking techniques is essential to prevent accidents and ensure smooth workflow. Support from experienced team members and ongoing training can help new operators build confidence and proficiency over time.

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

AspectEntry Level Forklift OperatorWarehouse Associate
CertificationsForklift certification often requiredGenerally no specific certification needed
Work EnvironmentOperate forklifts in warehouses or distribution centersPerform various tasks including packing, sorting, and stocking
Job DutiesOperate forklifts to move materialsAssist with inventory, packing, and general warehouse tasks
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, distributionWidespread across retail, manufacturing, logistics

While both roles are essential in warehouse settings, an Entry Level Forklift Operator specializes in operating forklifts and requires specific certification, whereas a Warehouse Associate performs broader tasks without necessarily needing forklift certification. Both roles support warehouse operations but focus on different skill sets and responsibilities.

Is it hard to get a entry level forklift operator job with no experience?

Entry level forklift operator jobs typically do not require prior experience, but employers often prefer candidates with a valid forklift certification and basic safety knowledge. Gaining certification and demonstrating reliability can improve chances of employment, even without previous work experience. Training is usually provided on the job for new operators.

Where can I get a job as an entry level forklift operator?

Entry level forklift operators can find job opportunities at warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants, and logistics companies. These roles often require a valid forklift certification and basic safety training, and jobs are commonly posted on general job boards, company websites, and staffing agencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forklift Operator jobs in Delaware?

The most popular types of Forklift Operator jobs in Delaware are:

Entry Level Forklift Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forklift Operator job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,129 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Materials Clerk

Mountaire Corporation

Selbyville, DE • On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Mountaire Farms rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description


Primary Purpose
Performs receiving, issuing and counting activities for at least one (1) area of Parts, Packaging, Supply and/or the Garage. Enters transfers between warehouse locations into Oracle Cloud. Must be competent in all Oracle entries as well as the physical handling, familiarity and cycle counts of materials.
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:30pm-2:30am, with occasional Saturdays when the plant is scheduled and occasional Sundays for inventory as needed. Must be flexible and open to weekend work.
Major Duties & Responsibilities
  1. Receiving, unloading, issuing and transferring material, using a forklift and pallet jack.
  2. Performing inventory counts and audits to monitor accuracy of inventory. Driving minimum/maximum inventory replenishment and maintaining levels of inventory required to execute plant operations. Packing goods for sale and performing routine and emergency maintenance.
  3. Verifying completeness of incoming deliveries by correlating physical quantities of items delivered to packing slip quantities.
  4. Performing daily trailer inventories (full and empty).
  5. Performing quality checks on stored inventory and reporting inventory that does not meet company standards.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Entry level.
  • Forklift license and pallet jack certification.
  • Training in Oracle Modules

#LI-SA1
#INDDE
About Us
Are you looking for more than just a job? The culture at Mountaire is one of our greatest strengths and most valued assets. We maintain the same core values and family-focused work environment that we've operated with since day one. You will find that your peers, supervisor and team members are genuinely committed to, not only your success, but also working together to provide high-quality products to our customers. We are a service to one another and to our customers, demonstrating operational excellence and outstanding performance.
About the Team
Mountaire Overview
Mountaire Farms is an agricultural food production and processing company providing work for over 10,000 people at facilities in Arkansas, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. Now the fourth largest chicken company in the United States, we are still family owned and fully committed to giving back to the communities where we do business. At Mountaire Farms, our culture is what defines us. It sets us apart from our competition and reinforces what we stand for. Supporting each other, uplifting each other, and helping each other succeed -- that's the Mountaire way! Our vision is to provide growth, stability, and opportunities for our people, our customers, and our communities by profitably delivering wholesome quality chicken.
Total Compensation
Mountaire also offers an amazing total compensation package! A few examples of our benefits that may be offered to you are: eight paid holidays, Medical Plans with free onsite Health and Wellness Centers, Dental and Vision Programs, Employee Assistance Program for you and your family, Retirement Planning with 401(k), Profit Sharing, Employee Discounted Chicken Sales, Employee Discounts with partners (Car Purchase, Phone Plans, & Shopping), Tuition Reimbursement and many exciting career development programs!

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