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Forklift Operator Machine Operator Jobs in Madison, WI

Hughes Recruiting

Forklift Operator

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Remove machine waste or attachments and dump materials into machine hoppers. * Examine products for ... Forklift Operator Requirements and Qualifications: * High school diploma or equivalent required.

Hughes Recruiting

Forklift Operator 2nd Shift

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Forklift Operator Our customer in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin is seeking motivated individuals to join ... Provide raw or WHIP stock to production machines according to production schedules. * Stack and ...

Keep It Real Foods LLC

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

Job Summary The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely transporting raw materials, components ... Exposure to noise, machinery, dust, or varying temperatures * PPE (Personal Protective Equipment ...

Oakhouse Bakery

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Job Summary The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely transporting raw materials, components ... Exposure to noise, machinery, dust, or varying temperatures * PPE (Personal Protective Equipment ...

New

QPS

Forklift Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$18/hr

Forklift Operator Wage: $18.00/hour Shift: 2nd Hours: 2:00pm - 10:00pm (Monday - Friday, Possible OT on Saturday) Are you simply working for the weekend? Apply now to begin your meaningful career ...

KENCO CORPORATION

Forklift Operator

De Forest, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Kenco Logistics Forklift Operator At Kenco Logistics, you're more than just a team member--you're part of a company that values innovation, integrity, and a strong commitment to its people. As one of ...

QPS

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$20.35/hr

Forklift Operator Wage: $20.35/hour Shift: 12 Hour Days or Nights Hours: 6:00am - 6:00pm or 6:00pm - 6:00am (2-2-3 Schedule) Are your skills not being fully utilized? Reach your maximum potential by ...

XPO

Forklift Operator

Stoughton, WI

$23.43/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short video to see a day-in-the-life on an XPO dock. Minimum qualifications: * Be at least 18 years of ...

Colony Brands

Forklift Operator

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$19.50/hr

Forklift Operator Sun Prairie Wisconsin Colony Brands, Inc. participates in the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' E-Verify program *This position is only open ...

Kenco

Forklift Operator

De Forest, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Forklift Operator is responsible for utilizing the lift equipment to move, load, unload, and stack products in preparation for shipping and receiving demands to meet customer needs. Functions

XPO Logistics

Forklift Operator

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$23.43/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short video to see a day-in-the-life on an XPO dock. Minimum qualifications: * Be at least 18 years of ...

XPO Logistics

Forklift Operator

Stoughton, WI

$23.43/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short video to see a day-in-the-life on an XPO dock. Minimum qualifications: * Be at least 18 years of ...

GB Packaging

Forklift Operator

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Provide raw or WHIP stock to production machines per the production schedule. * Loading and ... Clean driving record and a valid state motor vehicle operator's license may be required. * Forklift ...

GB Packaging

Forklift Operator

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Provide raw or WHIP stock to production machines per the production schedule. * Loading and ... Clean driving record and a valid state motor vehicle operator's license may be required. * Forklift ...

Aerotek

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Operator Join our team as a 1st Shift Forklift Operator where you will operate sit down gas forklifts, and have the opportunity to work with skid steers and balers. Your role will involve ...

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All JobsForklift Operator Machine Operator JobsForklift Operator Machine Operator Jobs in Madison, WI

Forklift Operator Machine Operator information

See Madison, WI salary details

$11

$17

$22

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift operator machine operator in Madison, WI is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $19.38 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 Madison, WI?

For Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Forklift Operator Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,380 per year, or $18 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Hughes Recruiting

Fort Atkinson, WI • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Forklift Operator: Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin

Our customer in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin is seeking motivated individuals to join their team. We’re recruiting Forklift Operators to work full-time on 1st shift. As a Forklift Operator, you will be responsible for safely moving materials throughout the facility, supporting production needs, and maintaining accurate inventory flow.

Responsibilities of the Forklift Operator:
  • Operate powered industrial trucks to load, unload, and transport materials to and from storage areas, machines, and loading docks.
  • Follow instructions for operating equipment and maintaining accurate records.
  • Transport raw materials, finished goods, and WHIP stock according to production schedules.
  • Load and unload goods from vehicles and move palletized materials throughout the warehouse.
  • Stack materials in correct storage locations and follow inventory control guidelines.
  • Check that all loads are secure and stack empty pallets as needed.
  • Perform daily forklift equipment checks in accordance with OSHA guidelines.
  • Remove machine waste or attachments and dump materials into machine hoppers.
  • Examine products for quality and report any issues.
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
Forklift Operator Requirements and Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Good math, reading, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work safely and remain attentive in a fast-paced industrial environment.
  • Ability to use an RF scanner may be required.
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record may be required.
  • Forklift certification per OSHA standards preferred.

$18.00/hour.

Benefits:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
  • Wellness programs.
  • Short-term and long-term disability.
  • Life insurance.
  • Company matching 401(k) and pension plan.
  • Paid weekly.
  • Direct deposit.
  • Paid training.

Type: 1st Shift, Full-time.

Schedule: Monday–Friday from 6:00am to 2:00pm with overtime on Saturdays as needed. Additional overtime during the week may be required. Schedule may vary based on production needs (ex: 5:00am–3:00pm).

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