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Forklift Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

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 · 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 · 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 · 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

Athens, AL

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Job Summary Forklift Operator I is responsible for the movement of material from inventory to production and back to inventory. Maintains correct paperwork and production records as required.

Forklift Operator

Athens, AL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Job Summary Forklift Operator I is responsible for the movement of material from inventory to production and back to inventory. Maintains correct paperwork and production records as required.

Forklift Operator

Cullman, AL · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

We are looking for a careful forklift operator to join our Cullman, AL team! You must be a responsible individual with great experience in driving forklifts. The goal will be to ensure that material ...

Forklift Operator, Starting at $25.54 hr Part-Time, Monday - Friday, Various Shifts Earn 1 week of vacation after 90 days of employment and enjoy an excellent benefits package that includes our very ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Forklift Operator

Tanner, AL · On-site

$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 ...

Material Movement Operator Pay Rates: Starting: $20.00 6 Months: $20.75; 1 Year: $21.50 Top out at ... Forklift Certified * Yard Dog knowledge Behavioral * Safety Orientation * Ability to Work as a Team

Material Movement Operator Pay Rates: Starting: $20.00 6 Months: $20.75; 1 Year: $21.50 Top out at ... Forklift Certified * Yard Dog knowledge Behavioral * Safety Orientation * Ability to Work as a Team

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Forklift Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do forklift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift operator in Decatur, AL is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forklift operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forklift Operator, you need a solid understanding of warehouse operations, forklift safety, and material handling, often supported by a high school diploma and a forklift operator certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and various types of forklifts is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and reliability help operators excel in fast-paced environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring workplace safety, efficient inventory movement, and minimizing operational risks.

What are some common safety challenges faced by forklift operators, and how are they addressed in the workplace?

Forklift operators often encounter safety challenges such as navigating tight spaces, handling unstable loads, and operating in areas with pedestrian traffic. To address these risks, companies typically provide comprehensive safety training, enforce strict safety protocols, and maintain clear signage and floor markings in the warehouse. Operators are also encouraged to conduct regular equipment inspections and communicate closely with team members to prevent accidents. Adhering to these practices helps create a safer work environment and reduces the likelihood of workplace injuries.

What is the difference between Forklift Operator vs Material Handler?

AspectForklift OperatorMaterial Handler
CertificationsForklift certification requiredMay require general OSHA training, but not always forklift-specific
Work EnvironmentWarehouse, distribution centers, construction sitesWarehouses, shipping/receiving areas, manufacturing plants
Job FocusOperating forklifts to move heavy loadsHandling, sorting, and managing inventory
Tools & EquipmentForklifts, pallet jacksHand trucks, pallet jacks, packaging tools

While both roles are essential in warehouse operations, a Forklift Operator primarily operates forklifts to move heavy loads, requiring specific certification. A Material Handler focuses on managing inventory and may use various manual tools but typically does not operate heavy machinery. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and certifications.

How much do forklift operators get paid?

Forklift operators typically earn an average hourly wage between $15 and $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $31,000 to $41,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, certifications, and the complexity of the work environment.

How much do forklift operators make?

Forklift operators typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $20, which translates to approximately $31,200 to $41,600 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications such as OSHA forklift training, and the industry or region where they work.

Is being a forklift operator worth it?

Forklift operators perform essential tasks in warehouses and manufacturing facilities, operating machinery to move goods efficiently. The job typically requires safety training and certification, offers steady employment, and can provide a starting point for careers in logistics or supply chain management.

What are popular job titles related to Forklift Operator jobs in Decatur, AL?

For Forklift Operator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forklift Operator jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Forklift Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Forklift Operator job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,777 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 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