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Hi Lift Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Loads and unloads trucks & trailers utilizing a hi-lo/lift/forklift. * Moves product, shells and pallets throughout the warehouse utilizing a hi-lo/lift/forklift. * General warehousing includes, but ...

3rd shift HI LO Operator

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

The HI LO Operator will be responsible for safely operating high-lift forklifts to move, load, and unload products and materials in a timely and efficient manner during the overnight shift. Key ...

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Hi Lift Operator information

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$12

$18

$22

How much do hi lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for hi lift operator in the United States is $18.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hi Lift Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hi Lift Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment controls, load management systems, and possession of relevant certifications such as OSHA forklift certification are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure safe, efficient material handling and prevent workplace accidents in industrial and construction environments.

What are some common safety challenges faced by Hi Lift Operators, and how are they addressed on the job?

Hi Lift Operators often encounter safety challenges such as navigating tight spaces, working in varying weather conditions, and handling heavy loads at significant heights. To address these, operators undergo rigorous safety training, follow strict operational protocols, and regularly inspect their equipment before use. Additionally, ongoing communication with ground crews and adherence to site-specific safety guidelines help minimize risks and ensure a safe working environment.

What are Hi Lift Operators?

Hi Lift Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating high-lift machinery, such as forklifts or aerial lifts, to move, load, and unload materials in warehouses, construction sites, or industrial settings. Their main duties include ensuring the safe transport of goods, maintaining equipment, and adhering to safety regulations. Hi Lift Operators often need to be certified and trained in the proper use of lifting equipment. They play a crucial role in efficient material handling and workplace safety.

What is the difference between Hi Lift Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectHi Lift OperatorForklift Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a Hi Lift certificationRequires forklift certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, warehouses, industrial settingsWarehouses, manufacturing plants, distribution centers
Job DutiesOperating high-lift equipment for lifting and moving materialsOperating forklifts to load, unload, and transport goods
Industry UsageConstruction, heavy industryLogistics, warehousing, manufacturing

Both Hi Lift Operators and Forklift Operators operate heavy equipment to move materials, but they differ mainly in the type of machinery used and work environments. Hi Lift Operators focus on high-lift equipment often used in construction, while Forklift Operators work primarily with forklifts in warehouses and distribution centers. Certifications are required for both roles, making them similar in credential requirements but distinct in operational focus.

More about Hi Lift Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Hi Lift Operator jobs? Cities with the most Hi Lift Operator job openings:
What states have the most Hi Lift Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Hi Lift Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hi Lift Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,182 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
SEASONAL HI-LO/LIFT OPERATOR - PCNY

SEASONAL HI-LO/LIFT OPERATOR - PCNY

The Honickman Companies

Amityville, NY

$25.08 - $30.93/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Honickman Companies® Job Opportunity

With a dedication to our people and our products, The Honickman Companies® are collectively one of the largest independent beverage employers in the country. Our Pepsi business includes distribution for brands like Pepsi-Cola, Starbucks, Lipton Teas, Gatorade, Evian and more, throughout the 5 Borough's, Long Island, West Chester Co and Pennsauken NJ. If you are excited to work with some of the biggest brands in the world, in the biggest brand market in the world, come see what we have to offer.

A passionate, self-motivated, and detail-oriented team player who is committed to the success of our customers. You will focus on growing and developing existing clients, as well as generating new business by identifying, implementing and executing new strategies.

Position Summary

This position requires an individual to perform a variety of different jobs including but not limited to the loading & unloading of trucks & trailers, moving product, shells and pallets throughout the warehouse utilizing a hi-lo/lift/forklift.

Representative Responsibilities

The following responsibilities are general duties that a particular employee in this position may or may not be required to perform. The actual duties required of this position will vary.

  • Loads and unloads trucks & trailers utilizing a hi-lo/lift/forklift.
  • Moves product, shells and pallets throughout the warehouse utilizing a hi-lo/lift/forklift.
  • General warehousing includes, but are not limited to, pallets, shells, dock loading, dock unloading, general warehousing, production forklift, truck stripping, replenishing, general utility responsibilities, picking product, recycling, repack and general cleaning.
  • Maintain and handle large moving piece of equipment in an efficient and safe manner. Company certification of qualification to operate must be achieved/received.
  • Cleans loading area by disposing of trash in designated receptacle(s).
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Experience, Education, Certification
  • Equivalent of high school diploma or G.E.D certification and 1+ years experience in a warehouse environment or equivalent job duties.
  • Experience utilizing various warehouse equipment, including, but not limited to, forklift, pallet jack, and shrink wrap machinery.
Environmental/Atmospheric Working Conditions

The following environmental/atmospheric working conditions are commonly, but not always, associated with the performance of this position. The actual working conditions will vary.

  • Warehouse environment.
  • Interior and Exterior working conditions.
Physical Demands
  • Lift/Carry
    • 12lbs or less Occasionally
    • 13-25lbs Frequently
    • 26-40lbs Frequently
    • 41-100lbs Continual
  • Push/Pull
    • 12lbs or less Occasionally
    • 13-25lbs Occasionally
    • 26-40lbs Occasionally
    • 41-100lbs Occasionally
  • Other
    • Bend Continual
    • Squat/Kneel Continual
    • Twist/Turn Continual
    • Climb Occasionally
    • Crawl Occasionally
    • Reach above Shoulder Occasionally
    • Reach Outward Frequently
    • Stand/Walk Continual
    • Sit Occasionally
    • Hi-lo/Lift/Forklift Frequently
    • Drive Auto/Stand Occasionally
    • Type/Keypunch Frequently
  • Must be able to achieve and maintain required case pick per hour
Compensation Range

Potential earning is from $25.080 to $30.933 hourly.

Equal Opportunity Employer committed to Diversity and Equality in hiring and all of its Employment Decisions. We are an EOE - M / F / D / V.

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required by personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the company.

* We do not provide application status due to overwhelming volume. If your skills meet our needs, we will contact you to move forward in the process.** EOE without regard to race, color, religion, creed, affectional or sexual orientation or sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetics, veteran status, gender, gender identity, citizenship status, marital status, VEVRAA Federal Contractor.*** If you have a disability and you need an accommodation to apply, please contact us at hiring@hongrp.com


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About Honickman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Pennsauken, NJ, US

Year founded

1957