Learn about the essential requirements, obligations, responsibilities, and skills that are helpful in a forklift operator’s job description.
Forklift operators are integral to manufacturing plants, warehouses, and other businesses. While these professionals are skilled at operating and maintaining forklifts, they also play a prominent role in a company’s overall operations. Now is a great time to start pursuing a career as a forklift operator; thousands of opportunities are available because companies are hiring rapidly for this position. If you’re a hiring manager at one of these companies, you’ll need to know how to write the perfect job description to catch potential candidates’ interest.
Looking to hire a forklift operator? Our top recommendation for this task is ZipRecruiter. You can even get started by posting your first job listing on ZipRecruiter for free! And if you're working with a tight budget, there are also some great free job posting sites to consider if you want to cast a wider net for candidates.
Forklift Operator Job Description Template
Are you an experienced forklift operator? Do maneuvering heavy loads with ease and precision come naturally to you? If so, we want to talk to you! Our company is looking to hire a skilled forklift operator to join our team. During a typical shift, you’ll move heavy materials and equipment, load and unload trucks, and ensure all products are handled carefully. An ideal candidate will have a strong eye for detail, be committed to following safety procedures, and be able to work well under pressure.
Forklift Operator Responsibilities
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Operate a forklift to move materials, supplies, or equipment around a job site or warehouse space
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Load and unload trucks and large containers
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Follow safety procedures and protocols so items are transported safely, avoiding damage
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Inspect the forklift and other machinery to ensure they are in good working condition
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Perform basic maintenance on forklifts, like checking fluid levels and replacing tires
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Wrapping and preparing orders for shipment
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Identifying potential or active workplace safety hazards to protect self and coworkers
Forklift Operator Requirements
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A minimum of a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent coursework
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Active forklift operator certification
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Experience working with heavy equipment and machinery, but forklift experience is preferred
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Must be able to lift heavy loads
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Strong ability to work well with others
Forklift Operator Duties And Responsibilities
Operate a forklift to move materials, supplies, or equipment around a job site or warehouse space
Forklift drivers should have the experience and knowledge to operate a forklift machine. Aside from being a primary job function, using a forklift is a task that requires a high level of precision and control. A well-trained forklift driver is a great asset to any company, as this position can help promote workplace safety and keep a warehouse running smoothly and efficiently.
Identifying potential or active workplace safety hazards to protect self and coworkers
Forklift operators work in environments with a high risk for potential hazards like slippery surfaces, malfunctioning machinery, or uneven ground. By recognizing these hazards and voicing them to leadership, operators can protect themselves and their coworkers from accidents or injuries. Experience in a warehouse or manufacturing environment or extensive safety hazard education is crucial in identifying problems that could lead to significant consequences later.
Inspect the forklift and other machinery to ensure they are in good working condition
Part of a forklift operator’s job is to regularly inspect the forklift they drive and any other equipment they handle for problems. Regular inspections extend the lifespan of a forklift, but identifying minor issues before they become severe can reduce the risk of costly repairs down the line. A forklift operator should be familiar with common mechanical problems and know the parts of a forklift to do their job sufficiently.
Perform basic maintenance on forklifts, like checking fluid levels and replacing tires
Like many other types of machinery, forklifts are prone to breaking down at some point. When a forklift operator identifies a problem, they should either have the skills to fix it themselves or alert a superior so a professional can repair the machine. Some common maintenance tasks are checking fluid levels, replacing tires, or fixing faulty gears or wiring.
Load and unload trucks and large containers
Being physically fit is a requirement many employers look for when hiring a forklift operator. It helps operators maneuver the machine properly, allowing trucks to move materials to and from job sites or to different warehouses. By mastering the art of loading and unloading trucks and large containers, forklift operators help keep the flow of goods moving smoothly and efficiently.
If you want a job as a forklift operator, you will need a polished resume. Check out our guide to creating a heavy equipment operator resume to learn more.
Forklift Operator Salary And Job Outlook
Median National Salary: $32,589
Education Required: High school diploma or GED
Number of Jobs: 852,200 in 2021
Job Growth 2020 – 2030: 7%
The Bottom Line
Forklift operators play a crucial role in most warehousing and manufacturing plants. With the projected job growth showing an increase in demand for this position, it’s the perfect time to start your career as a forklift operator.
To see where employers are searching for forklift operators candidates, check our list of the best free job posting sites. If you want to add a forklift operator to your team, post your forklift operator job description on ZipRecruiter today!
