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Hourly Forklift Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

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.

Wise Staffing Group

Forklift

Mascot, TN

$17/hr

Forklift Operator Location: Mascot TN Pay: $17 per hour Shifts Available: * 2nd Shift: 2:00 PM - 10 ... Competitive hourly wage of $17 per hour. * Opportunities for advancement and career growth.

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Hourly Forklift information

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How much do hourly forklift jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 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.
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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?

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Hourly Forklift jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hourly Forklift job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Forklift

Pratt Industries

Albert Lea, MN • On-site

$24/hr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 111 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Forklift Operator

Responsible for all activities associated with safely operating and caring for the forklift.

Duties and Responsibilities

Operation and care of forklift in a safe manner. Must be qualified to properly operate the forklift. Complete and document a forklift inspection form before start of shift and when operating a new forklift and turn in maintenance work orders to supervision for needed repairs. Locate stock before the start of the run. Deliver appropriate stock to appropriate machines safely and on time. Remove finished goods from machines. Maintain neat, orderly and safe stacks of stock in storage areas. Complete necessary paperwork in an accurate and timely manner. Maintain accurate location of stock in storage area by computer and supporting paperwork. Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed. Adheres to daily production schedule. Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality, delivery and service goals. Assist other forklift operators as necessary and is backup to Shipping Lead Person. Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status and Quality Data. Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping and any additional duties that may be assigned by management.

Education and/or Experience

High School Diploma or GED. Candidates are preferred who offer prior work experience in the corrugated industry.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral or graphic form. Ability to deal with problems involving one or more concrete variables in standardized situations.

Technical Skills

The individual must have a working knowledge of the following: Equipment design and capabilities that can be translated into efficient operation. Product layouts and production specifications, product quality specifications and quality standards.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud and be warm and humid from time to time.

Pratt Industries provides equal employment (and affirmative action) opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

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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