Forklift Operator
Forklift operators are responsible for the loading and unloading of goods at warehouses and other industrial sites. Using a forklift in a safe manner, they will prepare orders for shipment by transporting materials from storage to shipping docks and vice versa. Additionally, forklift operators will perform daily checks and preventive maintenance to ensure their equipment works properly.
Future Job Market
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Fair
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Good
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Excellent
Typical Employers:
Forklift operators are employed by agricultural facilities, food production companies, warehouse facilities and any agricultural businesses or organizations that regularly transport and receive goods.
Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations:
- Industrial Truck Association
- US Forklift Association
- Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association
- International Air & Shipping Association
- Mid-America International Agri-Trade Council
- Grower-Shipper Association
Salary:
$37,500?
SAE Connections:
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Load and unload trucks using forklifts
- Ensure specification, quality and quantity of orders are correct
- Secure freight inside trailers using appropriate tools and supplies
- Ensure transported product meets safety, quality and production goals
- Verify stock, identify losses and maintain reports as needed
- Use mobile handheld devices to scan and track shipments
- Remove, weigh, stretch wrap and record finished pallets
- Locate and put away products in the correct location in the warehouse
- Interpret shipping orders and receiving reports to determine what items to pull and stage
- Deliver supplies to manufacturing areas
- Maintain a clean and safe working area around loading and unloading areas
- Perform daily checks and preventive maintenance to ensure forklifts are working properly
- Work in a safe, efficient manner, adhering to all company safety policies
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- agricultural mechanics
- business
- mathematics
Education/Training Required:
A high school diploma and forklift certification is required to become a forklift operator. Additional certifications may be required depending on the type of forklift used.
