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Forklift Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Technician What's in it for YOU: • Competitive pay • Paid Time Off • Health Insurance • Retirement Program • Employee Discount • On-the-Job Training • Annual bonus What you'll ...

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Previous forklift oil change experience is a plus but not required. * Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods. * Valid driver's license with a clean driving record preferred.

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Forklift Mechanic

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Operating an Accurate Forklift, Inc. owned service van in a legal, professional and responsible manner. You must have a clean driving record in order to operate our trucks. Provide "first line" face ...

Be Seen First

Forklift Mechanic

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Operating an Accurate Forklift, Inc. owned service van in a legal, professional and responsible manner. You must have a clean driving record in order to operate our trucks. Provide "first line" face ...

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Forklift information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do forklift jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift 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 the work of a forklift?

A forklift operator is responsible for moving, lifting, and stacking materials using a forklift truck in warehouses, factories, or construction sites. They operate the equipment safely, often requiring certification, and ensure efficient handling of goods while adhering to safety protocols.

What are some common challenges forklift operators face, and how can they be managed on the job?

Forklift operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, handling varied load sizes, and maintaining safety while working around other employees and equipment. Effective communication with team members, adhering strictly to safety protocols, and participating in regular training can help manage these challenges. Operators are also encouraged to perform routine equipment checks to prevent mechanical issues and ensure efficient workflow. Working closely with warehouse supervisors and logistics teams helps streamline operations and minimize the risk of accidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forklift Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forklift Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of warehouse safety, and a forklift certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), inventory tracking tools, and various forklift types is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and reliability are standout soft skills in this role. These qualifications and skills ensure safe material handling, efficient workflow, and a reduced risk of workplace incidents.

What's the highest paying forklift job?

The highest paying forklift jobs are typically in specialized industries such as manufacturing, logistics, or construction, especially for roles requiring certifications like OSHA forklift operator licenses or experience with heavy or specialized equipment. Senior or supervisory forklift positions, such as warehouse managers overseeing forklift operations, also tend to offer higher salaries. Factors like location, experience, and additional skills can influence pay rates significantly.

Are forklift jobs worth it?

Forklift jobs can be worthwhile for those seeking entry-level warehouse work, offering steady employment and opportunities for advancement with experience and certifications. The roles typically require physical effort, attention to safety protocols, and may involve shift work, but they often provide competitive pay and benefits depending on the employer.

What Is a Forklift Operator?

A forklift operator is a person that uses a piece of heavy machinery called a forklift to distribute, stack, and otherwise move merchandise in a factory or industrial setting. You can find these jobs in a wide variety of industries including construction, manufacturing, retail, food service, and warehouse storage. In this role, you likely have other duties beyond the operation of the actual forklift. These tasks can include physical labor such as lifting and moving objects. You can also be called on to do general maintenance tasks and keep track of inventory.

What are forklift operators?

Forklift operators are skilled workers responsible for operating forklifts and other industrial trucks to move materials around warehouses, storage yards, factories, or construction sites. They load, unload, stack, and transport goods safely and efficiently, ensuring that products are handled properly to prevent damage. Forklift operators must follow safety protocols, inspect equipment before use, and often assist with inventory management. Certification and proper training are typically required for this role.

Which forklift license pays the most?

The highest-paying forklift licenses are typically for specialized equipment such as order pickers, reach trucks, or rough terrain forklifts. Certifications for these advanced or niche forklift types often lead to higher wages due to increased skill requirements and demand in specific industries. Experience and the work environment also influence salary levels for licensed forklift operators.

What is the difference between Forklift vs Material Handler?

AspectForkliftMaterial Handler
CertificationsForklift license or certificationUsually no formal certification required, but training may be provided
Work EnvironmentOperate machinery in warehouses, construction sites, or factoriesHandle and move materials manually or with equipment in warehouses or shipping areas
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate forklifts to lift, move, and stack materialsSort, package, and transport materials within facilities

While both roles involve handling materials in industrial settings, forklift operators primarily operate powered machinery to move heavy loads, requiring specific certifications. Material handlers focus on manual or semi-automated material movement without necessarily needing a forklift license. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right role based on skills and certifications.

How much does a forklift driver make?

Forklift drivers typically earn an average hourly wage of $15 to $20, depending on experience, location, and certification. In some regions, experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in warehouse or distribution center environments that require safety training and equipment operation skills.

How much do forklift drivers make?

Forklift drivers typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $45,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications such as OSHA forklift training, and the industry or location of employment.
What cities are hiring for Forklift jobs? Cities with the most Forklift job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forklift jobs? The most popular types of Forklift jobs are:
What states have the most Forklift jobs? States with the most job openings for Forklift jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forklift job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Forklift Technician

Cleveland Forklift

Cleveland, OH

$45K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Forklift Technician

Job Description

What’s in it for YOU:

• Competitive pay

• Paid Time Off

• Health Insurance

• Retirement Program

• Employee Discount

• On-the-Job Training

• Annual bonus

What you’ll be doing:

• Troubleshooting customer equipment problems and/or performing preventive maintenance on material handling, aerial and related equipment

• Completing each repair job in a timely and productive manner while representing the company in a professional manner

• Accurately submit work orders in an expeditious fashion via tablet

• Following all company procedures and performing work in a safe manner

• Strong mechanical skills and a personal drive to learn and growth with us

• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record

• Ability to provide your own mechanic's tools. Specialty tools are provided

What you need to be successful:

• Education: High School or Equivalent

Skills:

• Strong mechanical skills and a personal drive to learn and growth with us

• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record

• Ability to provide your own mechanic's tools. Specialty tools are provided

• A strong desire to win

• Able to lift 50 to 100 pounds as needed

• Practical knowledge of material handling and related equipment (automotive experience is ideal)

• Proficient with technology such as computer, email, internet, tablet and telephone

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written

• A customer-first mentality

• Ability to interpret customer needs and fulfill them

About Cleveland Forklift

Cleveland Forklift was established in 1997 as a parts, service, and used equipment dealer. In 29 years, through the hard work and dedication of our valuable employees, we have become a respected forklift, attachment and aerial equipment dealer for new equipment from quality manufacturers, the area's largest retail and wholesale parts supplier, equipment rental, and professional service provider for all makes and models. We need people that share our passion for taking care of our customers, enjoy a fast-paced growing company, and want to contribute and share in our mutual success.

Cleveland Forklift was established in 1997 as a parts, service, and used equipment dealer. In 29 years, through the hard work and dedication of our valuable employees, we have become a respected forklift, attachment and aerial equipment dealer for new equipment from quality manufacturers, the area's largest retail and wholesale parts supplier, equipment rental, and professional service provider for all makes and models.