1

Forklift Operator Cold Storage Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This company is looking for an experienced Reach Forklift Operator who is comfortable working in cold storage and handling different dairy products. This role will support daily warehouse operations ...

Forklift Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$19.50/hr

Now Hiring: Forklift Operator - Mid shift PeopleShare is looking for a tenured and dependable ... Experience in frozen or cold-storage goods is a plus Why Work With PeopleShare? * Weekly pay

Forklift Operator

El Mirage, AZ · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

COMPANY OVERVIEW At Arcadia Cold Storage and Logistics, our mission is to design and deploy modern ... Forklift experience preferred but not required. * WAREHOUSE OPERATOR II * 3-4 years of warehouse ...

Forklift Operator

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$22/hr

Forklift Operator Overview: * $22/hr+, pending experience Forklift Operator Job Duties ... Organize and stage product efficiently in cold storage areas. * Load and unload product from semi ...

Showing results 41-60

Forklift Operator Cold Storage information

See salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do forklift operator cold storage jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift operator cold storage 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 unique challenges do forklift operators face when working in cold storage environments?

Forklift Operators in cold storage facilities often contend with extremely low temperatures, which can impact both equipment performance and personal comfort. Operators must wear special protective clothing and remain vigilant, as visibility can be reduced by fogging or frost. Additionally, maneuvering forklifts on potentially slippery surfaces requires extra caution and adherence to strict safety protocols. Effective communication with team members is also essential, as cold storage environments can be noisy and require coordinated efforts to maintain workflow and safety.

What does a forklift operator in cold storage do?

A Forklift Operator in Cold Storage is responsible for operating forklifts to move, stack, and organize products within refrigerated or frozen storage facilities. They load and unload goods, ensure proper placement of items to maintain inventory accuracy, and follow strict safety and temperature control protocols to preserve product quality. Additionally, they may inspect equipment, perform routine maintenance, and comply with workplace safety and hygiene standards specific to cold environments.

Which forklift operator cold storage job pays the most?

Forklift operator positions in cold storage environments with specialized skills, such as operating high-capacity or specialized forklifts, tend to offer higher wages. Additionally, roles requiring certifications like OSHA or OSHA-compliant training and experience in fast-paced or high-volume facilities often pay more. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and employer, but experienced operators in high-demand regions generally earn the highest wages.

What is the difference between Forklift Operator Cold Storage vs Material Handler Cold Storage?

AspectForklift Operator Cold StorageMaterial Handler Cold Storage
CertificationsForklift certification requiredUsually no certification needed, but may require safety training
Work EnvironmentCold storage warehouses, operating forkliftsCold storage areas, handling and moving materials manually or with equipment
Job DutiesOperating forklifts to move pallets and goodsPicking, packing, and moving materials within cold storage

While both roles work in cold storage environments, Forklift Operators primarily operate forklifts to move goods, requiring certification. Material Handlers focus on manual or semi-automated handling of materials without necessarily operating heavy machinery. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forklift operator in cold storage, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forklift Operator in Cold Storage, you need a forklift certification, understanding of warehouse operations, and knowledge of safety protocols specific to cold environments. Experience with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and temperature monitoring equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability to cold conditions, and strong communication are essential soft skills for this role. These qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient handling of goods and maintaining product integrity in challenging cold storage environments.
More about Forklift Operator Cold Storage jobs
What states have the most Forklift Operator Cold Storage jobs? States with the most job openings for Forklift Operator Cold Storage jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forklift Operator Cold Storage jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forklift Operator Cold Storage jobs are:
Infographic showing various Forklift Operator Cold Storage job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

2nd Shift Reach Truck Forklift Operator

Midway Staffing

Indianapolis, IN

$21/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Keep Operations Moving – Join Our 2nd Shift Reach Truck Team!
Are you an experienced stand-up reach truck forklift operator looking for a steady 2nd shift  opportunity? We’re hiring Reach Truck Forklift Operators to join our team in a cold storage facility on the east side of Indianapolis. In this role, you’ll play a critical part in moving and storing food products safely and efficiently — including work inside freezer areas.
Location: East Side of Indianapolis
Schedule: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday
Pay Rate: $21/hour
Work Environment: Cold storage facility; must be able to work in refrigerated and freezer areas
Job Summary
As a Stand-Up Reach Truck Forklift Operator, you’ll be responsible for safely operating reach trucks to move, stage, and store product throughout the warehouse. Accuracy, safety, and efficiency are key, as you’ll be supporting daily warehouse operations in a temperature-controlled environment.
Key Responsibilities
Operate a stand-up reach truck to move and store palletized product
Pick, stage, and replenish inventory in racking systems
Safely load and unload product from designated locations
Work in refrigerated areas and enter freezer environments as required
Verify product, locations, and quantities to ensure inventory accuracy
Follow all warehouse safety standards, GMPs, and food safety guidelines
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
Report equipment issues, damage, or inventory discrepancies to supervision
Support other warehouse operations as needed to meet daily goals
What You’ll Need
Prior stand-up reach truck forklift experience required
Ability to work in cold storage and freezer environments
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
Dependable attendance and strong work ethic
Forklift certification preferred (or ability to be certified on site)
Looking for a reliable 1st shift forklift role with competitive pay in a cold storage environment? Join a team that keeps operations running smoothly every day.
Apply Today!
Call us at (463) 222-9950.
#ZR