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High Lift Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

We're currently adding to our growing team and seeking order fillers, shippers, receivers, and high ... Repeatedly lift items ranging from 40-45 lbs * Occasionally lift up to 80-100 lbs * Assist in team ...

We're currently adding to our growing team and seeking order fillers, shippers, receivers, and high ... Repeatedly lift items ranging from 40-45 lbs * Occasionally lift up to 80-100 lbs * Assist in team ...

We're currently adding to our growing team and seeking order fillers, shippers, receivers, and high ... Repeatedly lift items ranging from 40-45 lbs * Occasionally lift up to 80-100 lbs * Assist in team ...

Forklift Operator $19-22/HR The Forklift Operator plays a key role in warehouse operations by ... High level of alertness and situational awareness when driving a forklift, especially in tighter ...

HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ... Valid Forklift Operator's License certified * Strong verbal and written communication skills

HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ... Valid Forklift Operator's License certified * Strong verbal and written communication skills

HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ... Valid Forklift Operator's License certified * Strong verbal and written communication skills

HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ... Valid Forklift Operator's License certified * Strong verbal and written communication skills

Senior Operator

Roselle, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

The role includes operating and troubleshooting various line equipment, performing minor mechanical repairs, and maintaining high standards for productivity, waste reduction, and quality. The Senior ...

Sr. Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

The role includes operating and troubleshooting various line equipment, performing minor mechanical repairs, and maintaining high standards for productivity, waste reduction, and quality. The Senior ...

Senior Operator

Roselle, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

If you are looking for a company that is thriving across various high growth industries and is ... Senior Operator Classification: Hourly (SE, SNE) Reports To: Pilot Production and Site Manager ...

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Showing results 1-20

High Lift Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$18

$22

How much do high lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for high lift operator in Illinois is $18.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $19.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a high lift operator?

High Lift Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating high lift equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, or other powered industrial trucks to move, stack, load, and unload materials in warehouses, distribution centers, or construction sites. Their primary duties include safely transporting goods to and from storage areas or loading docks, ensuring the correct placement of inventory, and conducting routine equipment inspections. High Lift Operators must follow safety protocols to prevent accidents and maintain efficient workflow.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a high lift operator?

To thrive as a High Lift Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a valid forklift or high lift operator certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, safety protocols, and high lift machinery is typically required. Attention to detail, communication, and the ability to work independently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring safety, operational efficiency, and accurate handling of goods in warehouse environments.

What challenges do high lift operators face and how can they be managed?

High Lift Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight warehouse spaces, handling heavy or awkward loads, and maintaining safety standards under time constraints. Effective communication with warehouse staff and constant situational awareness are key to avoiding accidents and ensuring efficiency. Staying current with safety training and regularly inspecting equipment can help prevent mechanical issues and workplace injuries, making the job both safer and more productive.

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

AspectHigh Lift OperatorForklift Operator
CertificationsOSHA-compliant training, certification often requiredOSHA certification typically required
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, construction sites, manufacturing plantsWarehouses, distribution centers, construction sites
Job DutiesOperate high lift equipment to move materials vertically and horizontallyOperate forklifts to load, unload, and transport goods

High Lift Operators and Forklift Operators share similar environments and certification requirements. The main difference lies in the equipment operated: High Lift Operators handle specialized high lift machinery, while Forklift Operators focus on forklifts. Both roles are essential in logistics and warehousing industries, often overlapping in job functions but distinguished by the type of equipment used.

Infographic showing various High Lift Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,969 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

High Lift Operator B Shift (Ottawa, IL) (2)

Ottawa, IL • On-site


Tyson Foods
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 553 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

298th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Respectful managers


$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Details:

High Lift Operator

B Shift Monday-Thursday 6:00PM-4:30AM

$23.10

If you are looking to make an impact on a meaningful scale, come join us as we raise the

world's expectations of what good food can do!

Safety is always FIRST with Tyson Foods and at Tyson all Team Members are expected to

practice safety standards, policies, and procedures. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we provide all Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and Boot Reimbursement after completing your probationary period!

Summary

This position requires pulling down and putting away pallets in the warehouse rack system using a hi-lift forklift.

Qualifications:
  • Must have 6 Months forklift experience with a single Employer is required within the last 3 years. No Gaps in employment greater than 6 months within the last 3 years.
  • Cold storage experience is Preferred
  • 3 months stand up forklift is Preferred.
  • Need full range of motion of arms, wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck, all digits, and legs. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time with a sense of balance.
  • Must be able to push, pull, bend, stoop, squat, and carry (70) lbs or more up to (120) lbs.
  • May work with corrective lenses if vision problems.
  • May be provided PPE for additional hearing protection as needed.
  • Must pass post offer health assessment and drug screening.

Responsibilities

  • Move product through the warehouse in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Pick and place pallets accurately and within Tyson Guidelines to avoid dumps or askew pallets.
  • Remove plastic wrap on occasion prior to depositing pallets.
  • Communicate effectively and timely to leadership as you encounter difficulties or discrepancies.
  • Follow all safety and policy procedures as set forth by Tyson Foods.
  • Other duties include ensuring that all product quality, authenticity and legality procedures are followed and completing Annual Food Defense Training.
  • Ensure safety processes are being followed consistently promoting a safe work environment and performing other responsibilities as needed.
  • Clean as you go throughout your work shift.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Environment

  • Team members may spend extended times in damp and cold environments with temperatures ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. (Up to 12 hours)
  • We provide a catalog of Hi-Vis selections from Refrigewear to choose what PPE you wish to have. We will cover 50% of the cost for all PPE, except for boots, your half will be payroll deducted.
  • Boots will be paid for up to $100, team members must wear either steel or composite toe boots that conform to ANSI 75lbs or more PSI rating with a slip resistant sole that covers the ankles. (Composite toe preferred).
  • Standing or walking up to 100% of the time.
  • Team members will spend up to 100% of their working time on a powered industrial truck (PIT) and will frequently mount and dismount throughout their work shift.
Additional NoticesThis location does not accept Rehires.

Proficiency in reading and writing.

ability to complete on-the-job paperwork and effectively communicate across all management levels

"Physical Requirements: The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation."

Relocation Assistance Eligible:

No

Work Shift:

B Shift (United States of America)

Pay Range/Rate:

$23.10

Incentives:

Annual Incentive Plan:

No

Long-Term Incentive Plan:

No

Certain roles at Tyson require background checks. If you are offered a position that requires a background check you will be provided additional documentation to complete once an offer has been extended.

Any listed amounts represent the base pay range. Additional compensation may be available for this position based on various factors such as shift differentials, standby/on-call, overtime, premiums, extra shift incentives, or bonuses. Pay is just one part of Tyson's total compensation package.


Tyson will develop an offer based on a candidate's or team member's relevant skills and capabilities, the market data for the role described in this requisition, internal equity, and other information relevant to the candidate and role.


Hourly Applicants ONLY -You must complete the task after submitting your application to provide additional information to be considered for employment.


The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.


Tyson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, color, religion, age, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.


CCPA Notice. If you are a California resident, and would like to learn more about what categories of personal information we collect when you apply for this job, and how we may use that information, please read our CCPA Job Applicant Notice at Collection, click here.



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