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Forklift Operator Machine Operator Jobs in Columbus, GA

pca

Forklift Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

High school diploma/GED. 6+ month's prior experience operating a forklift. Ability and willingness ... machinery, and heavy forklift traffic. Ability to obtain and maintain PCA certified forklift ...

CLP Circular Services

Forklift Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

The Forklift Operator drives powered industrial trucks to load and unload materials ... This includes deliveries and moving materials to and from storage areas, machines and loading docks ...

West Fraser, Inc

Forklift Operator

Opelika, AL

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Forklift Operator Opelika, AL Our employees operate in a culture that values safety first and rewards hard work. We recognize and support our team culture and focus on growing our team by promoting ...

West Fraser

Forklift Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Forklift Operator Opelika, AL Our employees operate in a culture that values safety first and rewards hard work. We recognize and support our team culture and focus on growing our team by promoting ...

West Fraser

Forklift Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Forklift Operator Opelika, AL Our employees operate in a culture that values safety first and rewards hard work. We recognize and support our team culture and focus on growing our team by promoting ...

The Reserves Network Inc

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$18/hr

Machine Operator | $18.00/ hr | Rotating 12-Hour Shifts, Temporary-to-Hire What Matters Most * Competitive Pay of $18.00 per hour , plus shift premium when applicable * Schedule: Rotating 12-hour day ...

Pharmavite

Forklift Operator (Nights)

Opelika, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Operates wrapping machine to securely wrap boxes loaded on pallets; adjusts controls for tension ... Forklift certification is required upon attainment of the position. Experience: * Requires one to ...

Pharmavite

Forklift Operator (Nights)

Opelika, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Operates wrapping machine to securely wrap boxes loaded on pallets; adjusts controls for tension ... Forklift certification is required upon attainment of the position. Experience: * Requires one to ...

ADVICS

Machine Operator

Lagrange, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... operator clean machines. • Weigh pre-form material that is backed-out and record as necessary (shutdown shift). • Return empty powder boxes to mix room and empty plate totes to plate prep. • ...

AT and T

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$51K/yr

And you'll get the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping others and connecting our customers to what matters most to them every day. #connectourcustomers As a Machine Operator, you'll work ...

AT&T

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$442 - $1.0K/wk

And you'll get the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping others and connecting our customers to what matters most to them every day. #connectourcustomers As a Machine Operator, you'll work ...

AT&T

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$442 - $1.0K/wk

And you'll get the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping others and connecting our customers to what matters most to them every day. #connectourcustomers As a Machine Operator, you'll work ...

AT&T

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL

$51K/yr

And you'll get the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping others and connecting our customers to what matters most to them every day. #connectourcustomers As a Machine Operator, you'll work ...

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Forklift Operator Machine Operator information

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift operator machine operator in Columbus, GA is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $17.21 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 are popular job titles related to Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA?

For Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA are:

What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Forklift Operator Machine Operator job openings:

Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forklift Operator Machine Operator job openings in Columbus, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,207 per year, or $16 per hour.

Forklift Operator

pca

Opelika, AL • On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Operate a forklift safely and efficiently.

Operates wrapping equipment when necessary.

Keeps stock and materials in orderly fashion.

Documents materials unloaded and taken off trucks.

Responsible for pulling job for production, inbound forms, inventory tags and counts on materials received or shipped.

Assists other shipping and receiving material handlers to balance the workload, organize warehouses, and perform general cleaning.

Follows rules and procedures relative to the safe and efficient operation of the forklift, also including reporting any missing, broken, bent or worn parts of fork lift to supervisor and/or maintenance.

Alert to any obvious defects of incoming material.

Adheres to all safety and work rules, company policies and procedures.

Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

High school diploma/GED.

6+ month’s prior experience operating a forklift.

Ability and willingness to work overtime on short notice, both during the week and weekends. 

Ability to work in manufacturing environment, with varying temperatures based on season, around machinery, and heavy forklift traffic.

Ability to obtain and maintain PCA certified forklift license.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Ability to work in a fast paced environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.

Ability to work independently and within a team, effectively communicating with members.

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