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Telehandler Operator Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Rough Terrain Forklift Operator

Clyde, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

Valid forklift certification (rough terrain or telehandler certification preferred). Or be able to be effectively certified in house. * Previous experience operating a rough terrain forklift in ...

Rough Terrain Forklift Operator

Clyde, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

Valid forklift certification (rough terrain or telehandler certification preferred). Or be able to be effectively certified in house. * Previous experience operating a rough terrain forklift in ...

Solar Operator - Baxter Creek

Mocksville, NC

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Forklift/Telehandler * Bobcat/Skid-steer * B. Follow prescribed safety regulations * C. Ensure that ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

Rough Terrain Forklift Operator

Clyde, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

Valid forklift certification (rough terrain or telehandler certification preferred). Or be able to be effectively certified in house. * Previous experience operating a rough terrain forklift in ...

Rough Terrain Forklift Operator

Clyde, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

Valid forklift certification (rough terrain or telehandler certification preferred). Or be able to be effectively certified in house. * Previous experience operating a rough terrain forklift in ...

Plant Operator ID: 2262 Location: Turkey, NC Department: Operations More about this job ... Operate heavy equipment to perform plant activities (fork truck, telehandler, etc. Benefits ...

Laborer - Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Proficiency in operating skid steer or telehandler. * Must successful complete essential physical functions evaluation and drug and alcohol testing as coordinated by employer. Power Construction is ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Gastonia, NC

$21 - $26.75/hr

In this role, you will directly impact the safety and reliability of an operating chemical plant ... Operate or works with forklifts and other heavy equipment (telehandler, boom truck / crane, skid ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Gastonia, NC

$22.75 - $29.25/hr

In this role, you will directly impact the safety and reliability of an operating chemical plant ... Operate or works with forklifts and other heavy equipment (telehandler, boom truck / crane, skid ...

Telehandler Operator information

See North Carolina salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do telehandler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for telehandler operator in North Carolina is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What industries employ telehandler operators?

Telehandler operators are employed across various industries such as construction, agriculture, warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics. They operate telescopic forklifts to move heavy materials, often requiring certification and safety training, in environments that involve building, farming, or material handling activities.

How much does a telehandler operator make?

A telehandler operator typically earns between $18 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $37,000 to $62,000. Wages depend on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

What is a telehandler operator?

A Telehandler Operator is responsible for operating a telehandler, a versatile lifting machine used in construction, agriculture, and warehousing. They transport heavy materials, stack loads, and maneuver in tight spaces using various attachments like forks, buckets, or lifting jibs. Operators must follow safety regulations, perform equipment inspections, and ensure smooth workflow on-site. This role requires skill, precision, and often certification or specialized training.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a telehandler operator?

As a Telehandler Operator, your daily responsibilities include operating the telehandler to move materials around construction or industrial sites, inspecting and maintaining the equipment, and following strict safety procedures. You will work closely with supervisors, site managers, and other crew members to ensure timely delivery of materials to various locations on the job site. Tasks often involve reading load charts, securing loads properly, and maneuvering in tight or crowded spaces. Keeping clear communications with your team is crucial for safety and workflow. Expect to adapt to changing site conditions and priorities as projects progress.

How much does a telehandler operator make an hour?

A telehandler operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or construction environments requiring certification and safety knowledge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the telehandler operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Telehandler Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision in handling heavy machinery, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with an operator’s certification. Familiarity with telehandler equipment, load charts, safety protocols, and radio communication systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively with team members make operators stand out. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safety, efficiency, and effective collaboration on busy work sites.

What are popular job titles related to Telehandler Operator jobs in North Carolina?

For Telehandler Operator jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Telehandler Operator jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Telehandler Operator jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Telehandler Operator jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Telehandler Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Telehandler Operator job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 88% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,831 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Rough Terrain Forklift Operator

Ames Construction

Clyde, NC • On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Ames Construction has been building America for more than 60 years, and the people who work here are thereasonwe continue to succeed.

We are a full-service,heavy civil and industrial contractorbuildingcritical infrastructure, includinghighways, bridges, mines,dams,rail, andmore.Ourteams take on challenging projects that keep communities safe, supply chainsmoving,and the country connected.

At Ames, we areFueled by FamilyandDriven by Ownership. That means welook outfor one another, take pride in what we build, and take responsibility for our actions, our results, and the long-term health of the company.

Guided by our core values ofPeople, Team, Our Bond, Persistence, and Vision, we do what we say we will do, push throughchallengesand deliver workwe'reproud of.

When you join Ames,you'rejoining a company built for long-term success-where skilled people, strong teams,and disciplined execution come together to build careers and a better future.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Operation

  • Operate rough terrain forklifts to transport materials such as lumber, pallets, equipment, and jobsite supplies.
  • Maneuver equipment safely over uneven, sloped, or unpaved surfaces.
  • Load and unload trucks, trailers, and storage areas while ensuring load stability and proper weight distribution.
  • Inspect materials prior to movement to prevent damage.

Safety & Compliance

  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report any mechanical issues immediately.
  • Follow all OSHA, company, and site-specific safety regulations.
  • Use proper lifting, loadsecurement, and hazardawareness practices.
  • Maintain clean work areas by removing debris, organizing materials, and securing loads.

Material Handling & Jobsite Support

  • Stage materials in designated areas for crews based on jobsite needs and schedules.
  • Assist with inventory counts, material tracking, and documentation.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, subcontractors, and team members to support workflow.
  • Provide general labor support when equipment operation is not required.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Valid forklift certification (rough terrain or telehandler certification preferred). Or be able to be effectively certified in house.
  • Previous experience operating a rough terrain forklift in construction, industrial, or outdoor environments.
  • Strong knowledge of equipment safety protocols.
  • Ability to read load charts, understand weight limits, and perform basic mechanical checks.

    Ames Construction 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, disability, or status as a protected veteran.