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Fork Truck Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fork Truck Operator

Ashtabula, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Load and unload trucks, trailers, and containers using forklifts, pallet jacks, and other approved equipment. * Stage materials for production and ensure production lines remain adequately stocked.

Fork Truck Operator

Greenville, MI · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Operate forklifts or other hand trucks. * Use scanning equipment and systems to ensure accuracy of ... High school diploma/GED required. * 2+ years' experience operating powered forklifts. * Knowledge ...

Fork Truck Operator

Greenville, MI · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Operate forklifts or other hand trucks. * Use scanning equipment and systems to ensure accuracy of ... High school diploma/GED required. * 2+ years' experience operating powered forklifts. * Knowledge ...

Fork Truck Operator

Whitsett, NC

$12.75 - $15/hr

Forklift Operator- 1st Shift TRC is hiring a Forklift Operator for one of our valued manufacturing clients. If you're safety-focused, dependable, and enjoy working in a fast-paced warehouse ...

Fork Truck Operator

Whitsett, NC

$12.75 - $15/hr

Forklift Operator- 1st Shift TRC is hiring a Forklift Operator for one of our valued manufacturing clients. If you're safety-focused, dependable, and enjoy working in a fast-paced warehouse ...

Fork Truck

Madison, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Fork Truck SUMMARY: Operates power fork truck moving material and equipment in and about Plant ... Assists machine operators on set-up, where heavy dies and jigs are used. * Supplies machine ...

Fork Truck Operator - Shipping Team (Off Shifts/3rd shift) Devens Corrugated Plant Devens & Lunenburg, MA * 320 Parker Street, Springfield, MA 01129 * 475 Leominster Shirley Rd, Lunenburg, MA 01462 ...

Fork Truck Driver

Tipton, PA · On-site

$19.18/hr

Must become qualified as a Fork Truck Operator (do not need to be pre-qualified). Education / Experience: * Forklift experience preferred, but not required * Experience in a manufacturing or ...

Fork Truck Driver

Tipton, PA · On-site

$19.18/hr

Must become qualified as a Fork Truck Operator (do not need to be pre-qualified). Education / Experience: * Forklift experience preferred, but not required * Experience in a manufacturing or ...

84C Picker (CL3)

Antioch, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $18.25/hr

Lumber Plant Fork Truck Operator Responsible for the efficient and timely movement of lumber and materials throughout the physical plant in accordance with the safety standards for fork truck ...

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Fork Truck Operator information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do fork truck operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for fork truck 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 is a fork truck operator?

Fork truck operators, also known as forklift operators, are professionals responsible for operating industrial trucks to move materials around warehouses, storage yards, or construction sites. They load, unload, and transport goods, ensuring items are safely stacked and organized. Fork truck operators must follow safety protocols, conduct routine equipment inspections, and often need certification or training to operate forklifts. Their role is essential in maintaining efficient and safe material handling in various industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fork truck operator, and why are they important?

A Fork Truck Operator must have a good understanding of warehouse operations, manual handling techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a valid forklift operator certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and various types of forklifts is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong spatial awareness, and effective communication skills are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and accurate movement of goods, reducing workplace accidents and supporting smooth warehouse operations.

What are typical safety challenges faced by fork truck operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Fork Truck Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, handling heavy or unstable loads, and maintaining awareness of pedestrians in busy warehouse environments. Effective management involves consistently following safety protocols, participating in regular training, and conducting pre-shift equipment inspections. Operators are also encouraged to communicate clearly with team members and use designated pathways to reduce the risk of accidents. Most employers provide ongoing safety education and encourage a culture of vigilance to ensure both operator and workplace safety.

What is the difference between Fork Truck Operator vs Material Handler?

AspectFork Truck OperatorMaterial Handler
CertificationsForklift certification often requiredMay require general warehouse safety training
Work EnvironmentOperate forklifts in warehouses, distribution centersHandle materials, move inventory, often in warehouses
Job DutiesOperate forklifts to move pallets and heavy itemsSort, package, and transport materials manually or with equipment

Both roles are common in warehouse settings and may require similar safety certifications. While Fork Truck Operators focus on operating forklifts to move heavy loads, Material Handlers handle a broader range of material movement tasks, often involving manual labor. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much do forklift truck operators get paid?

Forklift truck operators typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $14 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Many operators also receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, and certification in forklift operation can improve earning potential.

How much per hour for a forklift truck operator?

The average hourly wage for a forklift truck operator typically ranges from $15 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Certified operators with specialized skills may earn higher wages, especially in warehouse or manufacturing environments that require safety certifications and equipment knowledge.

Is a forklift truck operator a hard job?

A forklift truck operator's job involves operating heavy machinery, often requiring physical effort, attention to safety protocols, and certification. The work can be physically demanding and requires focus to prevent accidents, but it is generally straightforward for those trained and experienced with the equipment.

What cities are hiring for Fork Truck Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Fork Truck Operator job openings:

What states have the most Fork Truck Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fork Truck Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Fork Truck Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Fork Truck Operator

Ashtabula, OH • On-site


PLASTPRO 2000 INC
Construction • 51 - 200 employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Good employer

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Material Handler is responsible for supporting manufacturing and warehouse operations by ensuring the safe, efficient, and accurate movement of materials throughout the facility. This role is critical to maintaining production flow, inventory accuracy, and timely distribution of goods. The Material Handler will uphold Plastpro, Inc.’s standards of safety, quality, and professionalism at all times.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Transport raw materials, finished products, and supplies to and from designated areas within the facility.
  • Load and unload trucks, trailers, and containers using forklifts, pallet jacks, and other approved equipment.
  • Stage materials for production and ensure production lines remain adequately stocked.
  • Record all material movements accurately within the company’s inventory management system.
  • Assist with inventory control, including cycle counts, stock verification, and discrepancy resolution.
  • Maintain organization and cleanliness of warehouse, staging, and production areas.
  • Ensure compliance with all company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and colleagues to meet production and shipping schedules.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support operational requirements.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a warehouse, manufacturing, or material handling environment preferred.
  • Valid forklift certification (or ability to obtain certification upon hire).
  • Basic computer literacy and familiarity with inventory management systems.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and safety.

Work Environment

  • This position operates in a manufacturing and warehouse environment, which may involve exposure to varying temperatures, moving machinery, and forklift traffic.
  • The role requires standing, walking, and performing physical activities for extended periods.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required at all times while on the production floor.

Position Summary

The Material Handler is responsible for supporting manufacturing and warehouse operations by ensuring the safe, efficient, and accurate movement of materials throughout the facility. This role is critical to maintaining production flow, inventory accuracy, and timely distribution of goods. The Material Handler will uphold Plastpro, Inc.’s standards of safety, quality, and professionalism at all times.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Transport raw materials, finished products, and supplies to and from designated areas within the facility.
  • Load and unload trucks, trailers, and containers using forklifts, pallet jacks, and other approved equipment.
  • Stage materials for production and ensure production lines remain adequately stocked.
  • Record all material movements accurately within the company’s inventory management system.
  • Assist with inventory control, including cycle counts, stock verification, and discrepancy resolution.
  • Maintain organization and cleanliness of warehouse, staging, and production areas.
  • Ensure compliance with all company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and colleagues to meet production and shipping schedules.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support operational requirements.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a warehouse, manufacturing, or material handling environment preferred.
  • Valid forklift certification (or ability to obtain certification upon hire).
  • Basic computer literacy and familiarity with inventory management systems.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and safety.

Work Environment

  • This position operates in a manufacturing and warehouse environment, which may involve exposure to varying temperatures, moving machinery, and forklift traffic.
  • The role requires standing, walking, and performing physical activities for extended periods.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required at all times while on the production floor.


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