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Forklift Operator Machine Operator Jobs in Athens, AL

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Madison, AL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and masonry materials, is seeking a Full-Time Forklift Operator to support operations at our Madison ...

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Madison, AL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and masonry materials, is seeking a Full-Time Forklift Operator to support operations at our Madison ...

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Madison, AL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and masonry materials, is seeking a Full-Time Forklift Operator to support operations at our Madison ...

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Description Forklift Operator Madison, AL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and masonry materials, is seeking a Full-Time Forklift Operator to support operations at our ...

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Madison, AL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick and masonry materials, is seeking a Full-Time Forklift Operator to support operations at our Madison ...

Forklift Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Illinois Tool Works, Inc. (NYSE: ITW) is a Fortune 250 global industrial company ... Document and receive items such as packaging materials, parts, machinery, UPS packages, paint and ...

Forklift Operator

Trinity, AL · On-site

$19.25/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: Day Shift Hours: 6AM - 6PM Days: Rotating Days Pay: $19.25 per hour Required Qualification: Ability to spend 80 percent of the time operating powered material handling ...

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Forklift Operators do essential jobs with one of our premier clients, with rates starting at $18.00 - $19.00 /hr., plus available overtime. In this role, you will operate a forklift to load and ...

Forklift Operator

Trinity, AL · On-site

$19.25/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: Day Shift Hours: 6AM - 6PM Days: Rotating Days Pay: $19.25 per hour Required Qualification: Ability to spend 80 percent of the time operating powered material handling ...

Forklift Operator

Trinity, AL · On-site

$19.25/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: Day Shift Hours: 6AM - 6PM Days: Rotating Days Pay: $19.25 per hour Required Qualification: Ability to spend 80 percent of the time operating powered material handling ...

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Forklift Operators do essential jobs with one of our premier clients, with rates starting at $18.00 - $19.00 /hr., plus available overtime. In this role, you will operate a forklift to load and ...

Forklift Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14 - $16.50/hr

This Forklift Operator is responsible for properly loading, unloading, storing, verifying, and ... Document and receive items such as packaging materials, parts, machinery, UPS packages, paint and ...

Forklift Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Forklift Operator Organization Name: Buffalo Rock Company Website: Job Department: Operations ... Required to ensure loads are properly wrapped by machine or hand. * Required to build pallets ...

Forklift Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Forklift Operator Organization Name: Buffalo Rock Company Website: Job Department: Operations ... Required to ensure loads are properly wrapped by machine or hand. * Required to build pallets ...

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator Organization Name: Buffalo Rock Company Website: Job Department: Operations ... Required to ensure loads are properly wrapped by machine or hand. * Required to build pallets ...

Forklift Operator

Tanner, AL

$20.83 - $21.83/hr

Forklift Operator This role operates sit-down forklifts to support production and material handling activities across a multi-shift operation. You safely move, load, and organize materials to ensure ...

Forklift Operator / Line Support Warehouse Associate We are hiring Forklift Operators / Warehouse Associates to support on‑site automotive logistics operations at a major vehicle manufacturing ...

Forklift Operator

Tanner, AL · On-site

$21.83/hr

Forklift Operator / Line Support Warehouse Associate We are hiring Forklift Operators / Warehouse Associates to support on‑site automotive logistics operations at a major vehicle manufacturing ...

Forklift Operator

Tanner, AL

$20.83 - $21.83/hr

Forklift Operator This role operates sit-down forklifts to support production and material handling activities across a multi-shift operation. You safely move, load, and organize materials to ensure ...

Machine Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Machine Operators will be responsible for operating cutting machinery, utilizing technical drawings, and ensuring precision in materials handling and cutting processes. Previous burn table, beam line ...

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Forklift Operator Machine Operator information

See Athens, AL salary details

$11

$17

$21

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift operator machine operator in Athens, AL is $17.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forklift operator machine operator?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forklift operator machine operator?

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 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.

How much do forklift operators earn?

Forklift operators typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Many positions also offer benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay, especially for those with certification and experience operating different types of forklifts.

What cities near Athens, AL are hiring for Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Athens, AL with the most Forklift Operator Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Forklift Operator Machine Operator job openings in Athens, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,803 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


General Shale rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Forklift Operator
Madison, AL

General Shale, Inc., the nation’s leading manufacturer of brick and masonry materials, is seeking a Full-Time Forklift Operator to support operations at our Madison, Alabama sales and distribution center. This position is ideal for a dependable individual with forklift experience and strong customer service skills.

Position Overview:

The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely performing daily yard operations, loading and unloading trucks, and assisting with the preparation and staging of materials for delivery. This role is key to maintaining efficient distribution operations while providing excellent service to customers.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate a forklift to load, unload, and move materials safely

  • Assist with material handling and preparation for deliveries

  • Provide courteous and professional service to customers

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe yard area

  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support distribution operations

Qualifications:

  • Ability to operate a forklift safely

  • Ability to interact professionally with customers and team members

  • Physical ability to bend, stoop, lift, and perform manual handling as required

  • Dependable with a strong work ethic

What We Offer:

  • Competitive compensation

  • Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

  • 401(k) plan with company match

  • Paid vacation and 10 paid holidays

  • Stable employment with a leading manufacturer in the masonry industry

Learn more about General Shale and our portfolio of innovative brick and masonry solutions at generalshale.com.


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About General Shale

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Shale’s mission is to continue as the preferred solutions provider of building materials in North America because of the enduring quality, energy efficiency and natural beauty that our products provide. Driven by innovation that is modern and future-oriented, General Shale employees set the standard because of our shared commitment to safety, the environment and an intense focus on creating the ultimate customer experience.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Johnson City, TN, US

Year founded

1928