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How to become a Forklift Operator

To work as a forklift operator you must be 18 years of age or older, possess a high school diploma or equivalent and be certified as a forklift operator in accordance with the requirements outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Although OSHA sets the expectations, they do not certify individuals themselves. Employers, training programs or online organizations can certify individuals through coursework, hands-on training hours and successful passing of an exam.

How to become: Warehouse Worker · Warehouse/Driver · Material Handler · Order Picker · Laborer
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Typical qualifications for a Forklift Operator

5/6
Your Indeed Profile has 5 of the 6 qualifications typically needed to be a Forklift Operator.
Indeed users who have worked as a Forklift Operator typically have these qualifications.
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Skills employers are looking for

Note this is provided for informational purposes only. Adding qualifications does not guarantee a job interview, opportunity, or an offer.
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Forklift Operator jobs in United States

High Reach Forklift Driver 2nd shift
Lineage Logistics3
Rochelle, IL
Full-time
View job details
1 day ago
Forklift Driver/Night Shift (Lumber Yard Experience Needed)
Hixson Lumber Company5
Houston, TX
$13 an hour
Full-time
2 hours ago
Forklift Driver\Night Shift\Supervisor
Hixson Lumber Company5
Houston, TX
$16 an hour
Full-time
2 hours ago
River North Marina - Forklift Operator
Russell Lands2.3
Alexander City, AL
13 hours ago
FORKLIFT DRIVERS $14/H
PILLAR ONE, LLC
Miami, FL
$14 an hour
Full-time
13 hours ago
View all Forklift Operator jobs

Career progression for Forklift Operator

Education levels for Forklift Operators

Based on the requirements of Forklift Operator job openings on Indeed in the United States within the last three years.
required level of educationpercent of job openings
High school diploma or GED89.0%
Associate's degree7.0%
Bachelor's degree3.2%
Middle school education0.4%
Master's degree0.4%
Doctoral degree0.1%
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Expected salary by experience

Based on resume data from Indeed users who reported working as a Forklift Operator in the United States within the last three years.
Years of experienceAnnual salary in USD
0 - 4$24,700
4 - 8$26,300
8 - 12$27,200
12 - 16$27,700
16 - 20$28,000
20 - 24$28,300
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Common questions about career advices for a Forklift Operator

What skills are needed to be a forklift operator?

The most important skills for a forklift operator to have include paying close attention to detail, a discipline to comply with safety and organizational standards, good hand-eye coordination and strong organizational skills. Possessing technical knowledge about the machines being operated and good judgment about risk and corresponding safety precautions are also important.

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