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Hourly Forklift Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$22/hr

Position OverviewAs a Rail Forklift Operator, you'll be part of a productive team, transporting merchandise to, from, and within the warehouse to put away, drop down, and rotate full pallets of stock ...

$22/hr

Position OverviewAs a Rail Forklift Operator, you'll be part of a productive team, transporting merchandise to, from, and within the warehouse to put away, drop down, and rotate full pallets of stock ...

Forklift

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$24/hr

This position is an hourly forklift operator position starting at $24.00 per hour. There will be no computer issued or cell phone reimbursement.

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Hourly Forklift information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do hourly forklift jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for hourly forklift 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 is an hourly forklift operator?

Hourly forklift operators are workers who operate forklifts and other industrial trucks to move materials around warehouses, factories, or construction sites. They are typically paid on an hourly basis rather than a salary. Their main responsibilities include loading and unloading goods, organizing inventory, and ensuring safety protocols are followed while operating machinery. Forklift operators usually need to be certified and must adhere to strict safety standards to prevent workplace accidents.

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

To thrive as an Hourly Forklift Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical stamina, and a forklift operator certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), handheld scanners, and various forklift types is important for daily operations. Attention to safety, strong communication, and reliability are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure efficient material handling, minimize workplace accidents, and support smooth warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges faced by hourly forklift operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Hourly forklift operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight warehouse spaces, managing shifting workloads during peak hours, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. To manage these effectively, operators should prioritize regular equipment checks, maintain clear communication with team members, and stay updated on safety training. Many warehouses foster a team environment where operators collaborate closely with inventory staff and supervisors, making teamwork and adaptability essential for success.

What is the difference between Hourly Forklift vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectHourly ForkliftWarehouse Associate
CertificationsForklift certification requiredBasic warehouse safety training
Work EnvironmentOperating forklifts in warehouses or construction sitesGeneral warehouse tasks like packing, sorting, and inventory
Job DutiesMoving materials with forklifts, loading/unloadingPicking, packing, stocking, and organizing inventory
Industry UsageLogistics, manufacturing, constructionRetail, distribution centers, manufacturing

Hourly Forklifts primarily operate forklifts to move materials, requiring specific certification, while Warehouse Associates handle broader tasks like inventory management and packing. Both roles are essential in warehouse operations but differ in equipment use and responsibilities.

How much do hourly forklift drivers get paid?

Hourly forklift drivers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry. Certifications in forklift operation can also influence pay rates, and many positions require safety training and adherence to OSHA standards.
More about Hourly Forklift jobs

What cities are hiring for Hourly Forklift jobs?

Cities with the most Hourly Forklift job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Forklift jobs?

The most popular types of Forklift jobs are:

What states have the most Hourly Forklift jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Hourly Forklift job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


C&S Wholesale Grocers rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 49 rated food wholesalers


Job description

Position OverviewAs a Rail Forklift Operator, you'll be part of a productive team, transporting merchandise to, from, and within the warehouse to put away, drop down, and rotate full pallets of stock through the warehouse inventory reserve racks using a sit down Forklift. This is a fast-paced role, perfect for energetic individuals who are highly organized and like to stay active.Job Description

Starting rate:$22/hr

Shift: 1st Shift - Monday- Friday 7:00am- 3:30pm

Location:626 Loucks Mill Road York, PA 17404

  • Transport merchandise to/from receiving dock or reserve slots to proper location in the warehouse.

  • Maintain the proper replenishment in the computer, using a handheld device, when the pallet is put back in the rack.

  • Stack cases and rotate merchandise. Refill benches and fill pallet slots.

  • Select orders when needed.

  • Move/Slot finished product from production to designated storage area

  • Pull finished product from storage and load on trailers

  • Maintain accurate records of quantities, pack size and description

  • Unload material/product from trailers

  • Utilize necessary technology (e.g., voice, RF gun) to select product

  • Complete paperwork on transfer of material Date pallets with current date

  • Complete inspection form on equipment operated. Change battery in forklift, when applicable

  • Keep work area clean. Sweep floor slots. Clean spills and re-work damage

  • Perform sanitation duties when necessary

  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned

What's a great way to stay in shape?

- Continually Standing, bending, pulling, lifting, pivoting up to 90% of shift

- Walking on various surfaces including concrete, tile, carpet, etc.

- Frequently lifting of product weighing between 1 - 60 lbs. or more

- Frequent lifting of product ranging from floor to overhead

- Possibility of working on multiple levels of varying height

- Safe handling of sharp objects including box cutting tools

We offer:

- Paid training provided

- Weekly Pay

- Benefits available from day 1 (medical, dental, vision, company matched 401k)

- PTO and Holiday Pay offered

- In certain locations C&S offers $100 towards the purchase of safety shoes

- Career Progression Opportunities

- Tuition Reimbursement

- Employee Health & Wellness program

- Employee Discounts / Purchasing programs

- Employee Assistance Program

Environment

  • Warehouse : Grocery Warehouse (50F to 90F)

  • http://https//www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrwKG3DFAwE

We're searching for candidates with:

- Several years of experience operating a sit down forklift

- Strong sense of safety and ability to follow standard safety procedures

- Team-oriented outlook with a passion for helping others

- Desire to work with a team to support causes that positively impact our communities

- Ability and willingness to follow all material handling equipment safe operating procedures

The Fine Print

This Job advertisement does not constitute a promise or guarantee of employment. This job advertisement describes the general nature and level of this position only. Essential functions and responsibilities may change as business needs require. This position may be with any affiliate of C&S Wholesale Grocers.

By texting the advertised keyword to 32543 you will opt-in to receive hiring messages fromtheC&S Family of Companies.Msg & data rates may apply. Msg freq varies. Text STOP to cancel. For terms of use and privacy information, visithttps://olivia.paradox.ai/short-code-terms-of-use/cs-wholesale-grocers

QualificationsAttendance, General Equivalency Diploma - General Studies, High School Diploma - General Studies, Initiative, Productivity, Quality, Safety, ValuesShift1st Shift (United States of America)CompanyES3, LLCAbout Our Company

ES3 is an experienced team of third-party logistics experts, saving Consumer Packaged Goods manufacturers significant time and money every day. A pioneer of the collaborative distribution model, ES3 provides solutions across all channels, optimizing its supply network to expedite replenishment. ES3 does this by combining warehousing, mixing, and distribution services under one roof in a multi-manufacturer, collaborative model optimized by advanced technology.
Working Safely is a Condition for Employment with ES3, LLC. ES3, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. The Company provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.


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