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Forklift Operator Job Description: Top Duties and Requirements

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Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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A 482793344forklift operator70.91warehouse28.04forklift9.41warehouse worker7.63warehouse associate6.2140963945941914.0021.5832.70HOURLY636479752025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Forklift Operator, or Material Handler, is an individual who moves stock around a warehouse using a forklift or other types of loading devices. Their main duties include operating forklifts, winches , and other devices, loading and unloading equipment, and storing or relocating materials within the warehouse or factory.

Forklift Operator duties and responsibilities

A Forklift Operator has many duties and responsibilities that are essential to maximizing the factory or warehouse workflow. Here are some of the common duties and responsibilities that a 482793344forklift operator70.91warehouse28.04forklift9.41warehouse worker7.63warehouse associate6.2140963945941914.0021.5832.70HOURLY636479752025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Forklift Operator should be able to perform:

  • Load, unload, pack, and unpack materials.
  • Label and sort incoming and outgoing shipments.
  • Relocate items within the warehouse or factory.
  • Operate a forklift, winch, or other machinery used for transporting or shipping materials.
  • Track inventory of incoming and outgoing items.
  • Carefully handle and dispose of hazardous waste materials whenever necessary.

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Forklift Operator Job Description Examples:

Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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What does a Forklift Operator do?

The Forklift Operator is in charge of loading and unloading materials, both incoming and outgoing of the facility. They are responsible for maintaining the workflow in the factory or warehouse by preparing orders for shipment, storing materials, assisting in taking inventory, and operating the machinery required to safely handle and transport items . They may also be required to operate machinery to transport materials between factories, transportation vehicles, or shipping and loading docks.

482793344forklift operator70.91warehouse28.04forklift9.41warehouse worker7.63warehouse associate6.2140963945941914.0021.5832.70HOURLY636479752025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Forklift Operator skills and qualifications

There are several skills and qualifications that make for an excellent Forklift Operator candidate. Here are some of the common skills and expertise to look out for in a candidate:

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Good digital processing skills for inventory tracking
  • Strong organization and time management skills
  • Excellent problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work well under pressure
  • Attention to detail

Forklift Operator experience requirements

A successful candidate does not necessarily need previous experience as a Forklift Operator, but they should have experience working in a factory or a warehouse setting. A successful candidate will have an in-depth knowledge of how the day-to-day operations in these facilities take place and how they could apply their skills and techniques in a new setting to improve the efficiency and workflow of the company.

Forklift Operator education and training requirements

A good Forklift Operator will have a valid driver’s license, and the physical ability to lift and carry heavy materials as needed. In addition, they must have a license to operate a Forklift and other heavy machinery needed for the job. In Quebec, British Columbia, and the Yukon, 482793344forklift operator70.91warehouse28.04forklift9.41warehouse worker7.63warehouse associate6.2140963945941914.0021.5832.70HOURLY636479752025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Forklift Operators are required to have specific training from the governing bodies of their province to be eligible for the position.

Forklift Operator salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Forklift Operator is $18.20 per hour . Salaries may vary based on geographic location, type of industry, and the level of experience.

Job description samples for similar positions

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Forklift Operator job description FAQs

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