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Forklift Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Waukesha, WI

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As the Forklift Operator, you are responsible for the overall operation of lift trucks while picking products and putting away incoming merchandise. This is a full-time position. Both 1st and 2nd ...

Forklift Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

Experienced Forklift Operators Wanted Wood Personnel is currently hiring experienced forklift operators for multiple manufacturing and distribution facilities in the Nashville, La Vergne, and Mt.

Forklift Operator

Clackamas, OR

$23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join a growing manufacturing team as a Forklift Operator! A local manufacturing company in Clackamas is hiring a full-time, temp-to-hire Forklift Operator. Enjoy excellent benefits, opportunities for ...

Forklift Operator

Toano, VA · Remote

$20 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are currently hiring for forklift operators for for warehouse setting work in Toana, VA. Forklift certified preferred. Pay is $20 - $21 an hour based on skillset and experience. If you have 3+ ...

Forklift Operator

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As the Forklift Operator, you are responsible for the overall operation of lift trucks while picking products and putting away incoming merchandise. This is a full-time position. Both 1st and 2nd ...

Forklift Operator

Windsor, VT · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Operator - Harpoon Brewery (Windsor, VT) Barrel One Collective (B1C), the parent company of Harpoon is seeking a reliable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to join our Production team.

Forklift Operator

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Forklift Operator - 3rd Shift Shift: Monday-Friday, 10:30 PM-7:00 AM Pay: $19-21.00/hour Position: Forklift Operator We are currently seeking experienced Forklift Operators to join our team on 3rd ...

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Forklift Operator

Athens, GA

$17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Being a forklift operator is much more than just obtaining your forklift certification and starting the job, although that is the first step. An operator has many responsibilities not only to the ...

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Forklift Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

$19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

Forklift Operator Our global 3rd Party Logistics company is currently seeking a Forklift Operator. We have several locations in the Carson, CA area. This position requires previous hands-on ...

Forklift Operator

Everett, PA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Forklift Operator Pay & Benefits: * Full Time Hours * Competitive Pay * Full Plan of Benefits Forklift Operator Responsibilities: * Operating forklift in a warehouse setting * When not driving a ...

Forklift Operator

Brooksville, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

Forklift Operator We are seeking a Forklift Operator to join our team! What We Offer: * Work in a team-oriented environment where collaboration is a priority. * Achieve your professional goals ...

Forklift Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Forklift Operator We are seeking a Forklift Operator to join our team! What We Offer: * Work in a team-oriented environment where collaboration is a priority. * Achieve your professional goals ...

Forklift Operator

San Antonio, TX

$14.50 - $17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Being a forklift operator is much more than just obtaining your forklift certification and starting the job, although that is the first step. An operator has many responsibilities not only to the ...

Forklift Operator

Columbia, MO · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Metal Culverts, Inc. has a Full-Time Forklift Operator, opening located at 109 Dakota Ave, Columbia, MO 65205, this onsite position offers a competitive pay rate of $20.00 per hour.Metal Culverts ...

Forklift Operator

Portland, TN · On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

Forklift Operator Wood Personnel is in partnership with a large distribution center located in Portland, TN who is currently hiring for Forklift Operators. Start your next career move today. Forklift ...

Forklift Operator

Hoffman Estates, IL

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Forklift Operator Responsibilities: * Pick parts; prepare & ship product * Work with small CNC machine parts * Stand Up Forklift will be used 10% of the time * Cherry Picker will be 20% of the time

Forklift Operator Location: Locust Grove, GA Schedule: Monday-Friday | 5:00 AM - Finish (End time based on workload) Pay: $16.00/hour We are currently seeking an experienced Forklift Operator to join ...

Forklift Operator

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Forklift Operator Pay & Benefits: * Full Time Hours * Competitive Pay * Full Plan of Benefits Forklift Operator Responsibilities: * Operating forklift in a warehouse setting * When not driving a ...

Showing results 41-60

Forklift Operator information

See salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do forklift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift operator in the United States is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.23 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 cities are hiring for Forklift Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Forklift Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Forklift Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Forklift Operator jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Forklift Operator jobs?

The top employers for Forklift Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Forklift Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forklift Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Forklift Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Steinhafels rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 62 rated furniture retailers


Job description

Overview

Steinhafels is currently recruiting for an Order Selector / Forklift Operator at our Waukesha Distribution Center.  Starting pay for the Forklift Operator role is $18/hour. 

As the Forklift Operator, you are responsible for the overall operation of lift trucks while picking products and putting away incoming merchandise.  This is a full-time position.  Both 1st and 2nd shift is available with flexible scheduling.  You can work four 10-hour days per week.  You can work five 8-hour days per week.  Our customers tend to work on their dream homes on the weekends, therefore, working one weekend day per week is required.

Steinhafels, founded in 1934, is an employee-owned, family-run company. Our associates have voted us a Top Workplace in Southeastern Wisconsin 10 times! With our positive company culture and strong focus on work-life balance for our associates, we continue to be an employer of choice and are looking to add to our dynamic team.

Based on eligibility, we offer many great benefits including a fantastic employee discount, paid training, paid time off, paid holidays, health & dental insurance, 401(k), participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan, and more.

Apply today!

Responsibilities

Forklift Operator Primary Duties include:  

  • Load and unload designated carts  
  • Use proper put away technique to maintain warehouse efficiency  
  • Reporting and maintaining basic lift truck maintenance and any damages
  • Organization and cleanliness of designated isles 
  • Accurately completing assignments given by Warehouse Management System
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications

Physical Demands for Forklift Operator:  

  • Regular standing, lifting, tipping, pushing, pulling, carrying, and steering machine, working in a fast paced environment

Position Requirements for Forklift Operator:  

  • Must learn Warehouse Management System for job tasks  
  • Must be comfortable with heights and small areas  
  • Must have the ability to drive a standing forklift  
  • Must be self-motivated and able to meet deadlines
  • Good attendance and punctuality is also a must

Working Conditions for Forklift Operator:  

  • Will work indoors on a lift truck / order picker most of the day, Will work on floor level up to 40 feet high  
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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