A Day In The Life Of A Forklift Operator

In any industry where the transportation and movement of heavy goods is required, you'll likely find a forklift operator. Industries like warehouses, construction, agriculture, manufacturing, recycling, and retail all require the use of forklifts to handle and move materials. But not just anyone can operate these high-tech machines. Forklift operators have to meet certain requirements, be certified, and participate in recertification training every three years. 

Having your forklift certification makes you more employable in some of the country's biggest industries, and opens up the door for job opportunities that wouldn't be available without the certification. If getting forklift certified has been on your radar, take a look at what a day in the life of a forklift operator looks like to get a feel for what this new career path could look like for you.

Forklift Operators Perform Pre-Shift Inspections

It's important to remember that all forklift operators operate on their own schedule and use their own systems and processes to ensure safety and efficiency in the workplace. However, most start with a pre-shift inspection. This happens at the beginning of a shift and includes checking over the machine to make sure it is working properly. They will check fluid levels, tires, lights, brakes, and steering systems to make sure the machine is safe and operable. They will also analyze the warehouse (or workspace) to determine and prioritize their next steps. Many industries require forklift operators to be part of a daily or weekly meeting to communicate with other warehouse staff and get aligned on their priorities and deadlines. 

Loading and Unloading

A big part of a forklift operator's job is to load and unload trucks that come into a warehouse. Significant precision, patience, and attention to detail are required to successfully load and unload heavy pallets onto and off of trucks. It is their responsibility to make sure boxes, pallets, and other materials are loaded and secured safely for transport. 

Organization is a big part of keeping any industry running, and forklifts play a big role in stacking, organizing, and managing goods at a high volume level. Forklifts are often used to retrieve items from high shelves or move heavy items from place to place to make it easier for other employees to access the materials. This organization also plays a big role in managing inventory. Some forklift operators are in charge of checking stock levels, updating inventory records, and cycle checking.

Maintaining The Forklift

Another part of a forklift operator's day may include cleaning and maintaining their machine. This ensures that the machine is working properly and allows them to report any issues or malfunctions that could jeopardize the safety or efficiency of the job. 

Forklift Operators Uphold Safety Standards

While they are inspecting their workspaces, loading and unloading materials, checking inventories, and maintaining their machinery, forklift inspectors are also responsible for upholding the highest safety standards. Forklift accidents are dangerous and expensive, and following all of the rules, procedures, and protocols associated with working this type of machine is of the utmost importance. Forklift operators are expected to be focused and self-aware, wear the correct PPE, and work in a way that prioritizes the safety of everyone around them. It's a job that requires focus, physical fitness, and strong communication skills. 

In California, forklift operators make an average of $54,000 a year, and cities like San Francisco, Santa Clara, and Sunnyvale tend to offer higher salaries for forklift operators. Many job seekers looking for opportunities in the construction and industrial fields find that having a forklift certification increases their chances of landing high-paying jobs and can speed up the job selection process. 

If you're interested in finding opportunities as a forklift driver, Great Hire can connect you with construction, warehouse, and other industrial jobs that are looking for part-time, full-time, seasonal, and temporary work. Get started here!