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Forklift Operator Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Uptalent

Forklift Operator/Machine Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

$22.43/hr

Forklift Operator/Machine Operator This is an exceptional opportunity to work with an Oil&Gas Services company in Lawrence, Kansas Pay Rate: $22.43 / hour (+ shift differential if applicable) plus ...

Stratas Foods

Forklift Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Dallas, TX · On-site

$17 - $19.75/hr

Monday- Friday (2:00pm-10:30pm) with some weekend work and OT The Forklift Operator/Machine Operator (Production Area) supports the safe, efficient and productive set up, maintenance, and operations ...

PeopleShare

Production Operator

King Of Prussia, PA

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

... machine operator, fabrication, welding, MIG welding, TIG welding, press operator, CNC operator, forklift operator, material handler, picker packer, shipping and receiving, inventory control ...

Trojan Battery Company

Forklift Operator

Lithonia, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Forklift Operator will be working to make sure that machine operators have the materials they need to produce our world class batteries as well and moving finishing product onto and off trucks in the ...

Trojan Battery Company

Forklift Operator

Lithonia, GA

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Forklift Operator will be working to make sure that machine operators have the materials they need to produce our world class batteries as well and moving finishing product onto and off trucks in the ...

C&D Technologies, Inc.

Forklift Operator

Lithonia, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Forklift Operator will be working to make sure that machine operators have the materials they need to produce our world class batteries as well and moving finishing product onto and off trucks in the ...

C&D Technologies

Forklift Operator

Lithonia, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Forklift Operator will be working to make sure that machine operators have the materials they need to produce our world class batteries as well and moving finishing product onto and off trucks in the ...

PeopleShare

CNC Machine Operator

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

... forklift, machine operators, machine operator, machine operator assistant, machine operator associate, machine operator, machine operator, machine operator, machine operator programmer, CNC ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Auburn, WA

$24.15 - $26.15/hr

MACHINE OPERATOR (SAW OPERATOR / FORKLIFT) PAY: $24.15 - $26.15 per hour SHIFT: All Shifts Available LOCATION: Auburn, WA POSITION OVERVIEW This role operates band saws and sit-down forklifts in a ...

Hardscapes & Masonry

Forklift Operator

Lees Summit, MO

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Assisting machine operators with changeovers. * Adhering to forklift safety procedures. About You ... The ideal candidate will have: * 1 Year of experience working in a manufacturing environment as a ...

Hardscapes & Masonry

Forklift Operator

Lees Summit, MO

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Assisting machine operators with changeovers. * Adhering to forklift safety procedures. About You ... The ideal candidate will have: * 1 Year of experience working in a manufacturing environment as a ...

Hardscapes and Masonry

Forklift Operator

Lacombe, LA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Assisting machine operators with changeovers. * Adhering to forklift safety procedures. About You ... The ideal candidate will have: * 1 Year of experience working in a manufacturing environment as a ...

Hardscapes & Masonry

Forklift Operator

Lacombe, LA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Assisting machine operators with changeovers. * Adhering to forklift safety procedures. About You ... The ideal candidate will have: * 1 Year of experience working in a manufacturing environment as a ...

Hardscapes and Masonry

Forklift Operator

Lees Summit, MO · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Assisting machine operators with changeovers. * Adhering to forklift safety procedures. About You ... The ideal candidate will have: * 1 Year of experience working in a manufacturing environment as a ...

Hardscapes & Masonry

Forklift Operator

Lees Summit, MO · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Assisting machine operators with changeovers. * Adhering to forklift safety procedures. About You ... The ideal candidate will have: * 1 Year of experience working in a manufacturing environment as a ...

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Forklift Operator Machine Operator information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do forklift operator machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift operator machine 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 the highest paid forklift job?

The highest paid forklift jobs are typically those involving specialized skills such as operating heavy-duty or industrial forklifts, working in hazardous environments, or holding supervisory or management roles. Certifications like OSHA forklift certification and experience in logistics or warehouse management can also lead to higher wages. Salaries vary by industry and location but can reach above average for skilled or senior positions in material handling.

Is a machine operator the same as a forklift operator?

A forklift operator is a type of machine operator who specifically operates forklifts to move and handle materials in warehouses or construction sites. While all forklift operators are machine operators, not all machine operators are forklift operators, as machine operators may work with various equipment such as presses, CNC machines, or conveyors. Certification and safety training are often required for forklift operators.

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

To thrive as a Forklift Operator Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of warehouse operations, attention to safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with forklift certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), various forklift types, and inventory control software is usually required. Strong attention to detail, good communication, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are essential soft skills. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient material handling and maintaining productivity in fast-paced warehouse environments.

What are some common challenges Forklift Operator Machine Operators face during a typical shift and how can they be managed?

Forklift Operator Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight warehouse spaces, maintaining constant focus to ensure safety, and managing time efficiently to meet productivity goals. Adapting to different types of machinery and handling varying load sizes can also be demanding. These challenges can be managed by following strict safety protocols, participating in regular equipment training, and maintaining clear communication with team members and supervisors to coordinate workflows and address potential hazards promptly.

What are Forklift Operator Machine Operators?

Forklift Operator Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating forklifts and other machinery to move, load, and unload materials in warehouses, factories, and construction sites. They ensure the safe and efficient handling of goods, often working with inventory systems and following safety regulations. These operators must be trained and certified to handle various types of machines and are crucial in maintaining smooth material flow within a facility.

Which forklift license pays the most?

In general, forklift operators with certifications for specialized equipment such as order pickers, reach trucks, or heavy-duty forklifts tend to earn higher wages. Additionally, operators working in industries like manufacturing, construction, or logistics with advanced licenses or endorsements often receive higher pay. Experience and the complexity of the forklift type also influence salary levels.

How much per hour for a forklift operator?

The average hourly wage for a forklift operator ranges from $15 to $20, depending on experience, location, and certification levels. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in warehouse environments may earn higher wages, often around $20 or more per hour.

What is the difference between Forklift Operator Machine Operator vs Material Handler?

AspectForklift OperatorMaterial Handler
CertificationsForklift certification requiredMay require general OSHA training, but not specific forklift certification
Work EnvironmentWarehouse, construction sites, manufacturing plantsWarehouses, shipping docks, distribution centers
Job DutiesOperate forklifts to move materialsHandle, sort, and transport materials manually or with equipment
Industry UsageLogistics, manufacturing, constructionWarehousing, shipping, logistics

While both roles involve handling materials in warehouse settings, Forklift Operators specifically operate forklifts and require certification, focusing on equipment operation. Material Handlers perform broader tasks like manual handling and sorting, often without specialized certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and certifications.

More about Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Forklift Operator Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs are:
Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forklift Operator Machine Operator 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 Operator/Machine Operator

Uptalent

Topeka, KS • On-site

$22.43/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Forklift Operator/Machine Operator

This is an exceptional opportunity to work with an Oil&Gas Services company in Lawrence, Kansas

Job Description:

Pay Rate: $22.43 / hour (+ shift differential if applicable) plus Overtime, Medical, Dental and Vision under a W-2 Contract to Hire

1st shift: 7am - 3pm

2nd shift: 3pm - 11pm ($1.00 shift diff.)

3rd shift: 11pm - 7am ($1.50 shift diff.)

All contractors will need to train on the 1st shift before moving to 2nd or 3rd shift

1 - 3 years mechanical and/or manufacturing experience

Forklift operating experience preferred

Job Summary:

Conducts routine and non-routine phases of the manufacture of electrical submersible petroleum pump cable and/or rubber molded products.

Key Functions:

- Qualified to set up and operate specific work center, work center equipment and/or tasks under normal supervision

- Monitors assigned equipment and performs adjustments as needed

- Communicates effectively to all levels of the organization

- Attention to detail in documentation and process tasks

- Understand safe work practices and apply them accordingly

- Good general fitness with the ability to lift 10 – 50 lbs. as needed

- Ability to use measuring instruments and understand specifications

- Decision making skills on product quality based on specifications and visual observations

- Ability and willingness to work all 3 shifts, rotate shifts and work overtime

- Records necessary data and as well as performs computer input and retrieval completely and accurately

- Works independently of others as well as with team members, area managers, and support personnel

- Assists with work center inventories

- Uses participative team management style

- Ability to stand for long periods of time

- Wear PPE, as required, and observe health, safety, and environmental policies

- Successfully complete required safety training (including but not limited to forklift, drug and alcohol, electrical, emergency response, fire, first aid, health and hygiene, PPE, SIPP, risk reporting, IT security, hazardous materials, driving)

Note that if you get hired you must undergo a background check, a driving records check and a drug screening

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