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Forklift Operator Material Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Forklift Operator/Material Handler Location: Fountain, CO Pay Rate: $18.90/hour Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM Overtime: 15-20 hours of overtime available during the busy season Are you ...

Forklift Operator / Material Handler

Mesquite, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Forklift Operator / Material Handler Primary Purpose: Conduct daily activities relating to receiving materials into the warehouse and ensure safe and accurate storage and retrieval of inventory for ...

Forklift Operator / Material Handler

Mesquite, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Forklift Operator / Material Handler Primary Purpose: Conduct daily activities relating to receiving materials into the warehouse and ensure safe and accurate storage and retrieval of inventory for ...

Forklift Operator / Material Handler

Mesquite, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Forklift Operator / Material Handler Primary Purpose: Conduct daily activities relating to receiving materials into the warehouse and ensure safe and accurate storage and retrieval of inventory for ...

Forklift Operator / Material Handler

Mesquite, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Forklift Operator / Material Handler Primary Purpose: Conduct daily activities relating to receiving materials into the warehouse and ensure safe and accurate storage and retrieval of inventory for ...

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Forklift Operator Material Handler information

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How much do forklift operator material handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift operator material handler in the United States is $17.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Forklift Operator Material Handler, you need a high school diploma or GED, strong spatial awareness, and experience in warehouse or logistics environments. Certification to operate forklifts and familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS) are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure safe, efficient handling of materials and smooth warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Forklift Operator Material Handlers, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Forklift Operator Material Handlers often encounter challenges such as navigating tight warehouse spaces, managing heavy or awkward loads, and ensuring safety compliance at all times. Effective communication with team members is essential to coordinate material movement and prevent accidents. Staying vigilant, regularly inspecting equipment, and adhering to safety protocols can help address these challenges. Additionally, ongoing training and practice can improve efficiency and confidence in handling diverse material types.

Which forklift license pays the most?

In the forklift operator and material handler field, licenses for specialized equipment such as order pickers, reach trucks, or high-reach forklifts often command higher pay. Certifications for operating powered industrial trucks, especially those with advanced or hazardous material handling capabilities, can lead to higher wages due to increased skill requirements and safety responsibilities.

What is the difference between Forklift Operator Material Handler vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectForklift Operator Material HandlerWarehouse Associate
CertificationsForklift certification often requiredGenerally no specific certification needed
Work EnvironmentOperate forklifts in warehouses or distribution centersAssist with general warehouse tasks, including inventory and packing
Job DutiesMove materials using forklifts, load/unload trucksPick, pack, organize inventory, and assist with shipping

While both roles work in warehouse settings, Forklift Operator Material Handlers focus on operating forklifts and moving heavy materials, often requiring certification. Warehouse Associates handle a broader range of tasks like inventory management and packing, usually without specialized certifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are Forklift Operator Material Handlers?

Forklift Operator Material Handlers are professionals responsible for operating forklifts and other machinery to move, load, and unload materials within warehouses, factories, or construction sites. They ensure materials are stored safely and efficiently, often keeping track of inventory and following safety protocols. Their role is crucial for maintaining smooth workflow and supporting logistics operations in various industries.

Is a material handler the same as a Forklift Operator?

A Forklift Operator is a specific type of material handler responsible for operating forklifts to move, load, and unload materials in warehouses or distribution centers. While all forklift operators are material handlers, not all material handlers operate forklifts, as some may handle manual or other equipment-based tasks. Both roles often require safety training and certifications such as OSHA forklift certification.

What is the highest paid forklift job?

The highest paid forklift jobs typically involve roles such as forklift supervisor, warehouse manager, or specialized equipment operator, often requiring additional certifications or experience. These positions may offer higher wages due to increased responsibilities, overtime, or working in high-demand industries like manufacturing or logistics.

What other jobs can a Forklift Operator do?

A forklift operator can often transition into roles such as warehouse supervisor, inventory specialist, or logistics coordinator, leveraging their experience with material handling and equipment operation. Skills in safety protocols, inventory management, and equipment maintenance can also qualify them for related positions in supply chain and warehouse management. Certifications like OSHA forklift licenses can facilitate career advancement into supervisory or specialized roles within logistics and distribution environments.
More about Forklift Operator Material Handler jobs
What cities are hiring for Forklift Operator Material Handler jobs? Cities with the most Forklift Operator Material Handler job openings:
What states have the most Forklift Operator Material Handler jobs? States with the most job openings for Forklift Operator Material Handler jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forklift Operator Material Handler job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,010 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Experienced Forklift Operator/Material Handler

PeopleShare

Newark, DE

$22.64/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Experienced Forklift Operator/Material Handlers wanted!

Are an experienced Forklift Operator/Material Handler and seeking a stable company with excellent benefits and unlimited growth opportunity? Our client based in Newark, DE is a manufacturer of custom metal products and is seeking experienced 2nd and 3rd shift Forklift Operators to grow their team. 4 weeks of PTO, tuition reimbursement, boot allowances, and full benefits + 401k are just some of the perks!
The ideal candidate for the Forklift Operator/Material Handler position will have 3-5 years of forklift operation experience, steady tenure in previous positions, a willingness to cross-training on overhead crane operation, and some leadership experience is a preferred, but not required.

Job Details for the Forklift Operator/ Material Handler:
  1. Pay Rate:
    1. 2nd Shift: $21.64/hr
    2. 3rd Shift: $22.64/hr
  2. Schedule:
    1. 2nd Shift: Monday-Friday 1pm-9pm + occasional OT as required
    2. 3rd Shift: Monday-Friday 9pm-5am + occasional OT as required
  3. Full benefits, 401k, tuition reimbursement, boot allowance, and 4 weeks of PTO after a probationary period
Job Responsibilities & Description for the Forklift Operator/ Material Handler:
  • Review production orders, pick/prepare materials, and stage product for shipping.
  • Operate sit-down forklifts and train on production machinery, overhead crane operation, and other departments as required.
  • Assist in material handling of metal products to load into shearing machinery to meet custom specifications.
  • Maintain equipment and work area, reporting any issues or hazards promptly.
  • Complete documentation and confirm orders in SAP to ensure accuracy and efficiency in fulfillment.
Job Requirements for the Forklift Operator/ Material Handler:
  1. Minimum of 3-5 years experience in forklift operation. Overhead crane or other riding equipment experience preferred, but not required.
  2. Leadership or supervisory experience a plus, but not required.
  3. Must be reliable with strong attendance and work ethic.
  4. Must be able to lift, move, and handle materials throughout the shift in addition to equipment operations.
  5. Must have a commitment to workplace safety.
  6. Must be willing to undergo a pre-employment drug/background screening.
PeopleShare is the leading Staffing Agency in the region and has temporary to hire and permanent jobs in Delaware (DE) - New Castle, Newark, and Wilmington. We have openings for warehouse associate, assembly, production, forklift order puller, forklift, machine operators, FORKLIFT OPERATOR/ MATERIAL HANDLERS, receptionist, data entry, customer service, concierge representative, insurance, sales, substitute teaching, collections, call center, administrative assistant, accounts payable clerk, accounts receivable clerk, file clerk, and office managers.
PeopleShare provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, PeopleShare complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. IND9

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About PeopleShare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Whether you’re a job seeker or a hiring manager, we have the experience, expertise and resources to provide hiring solutions that work for you. We specialize in temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire staffing roles in the clerical, financial and light industrial sectors. PeopleShare connects employers and temporary employees who hit the ground running on day one.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Collegeville, PA, US

Year founded

2005

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