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The differences between forklift operators and loader operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a forklift operator and a loader operator. Additionally, a loader operator has an average salary of $36,987, which is higher than the $34,213 average annual salary of a forklift operator.
The top three skills for a forklift operator include pallets, basic math and electric pallet jack. The most important skills for a loader operator are front end loader, asphalt, and customer service.
| Forklift Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $34,213 | $36,987 |
| Hourly rate | $16.45 | $17.78 |
| Growth rate | 7% | 7% |
| Number of jobs | 213,020 | 61,980 |
| Job satisfaction | 5 | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 59% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Average age | 43 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
Forklift operators are skilled workers responsible for operating heavy equipment machines called forklifts. They are in charge of operating forklifts, a type of industrial or heavy equipment truck/machine that moves materials from one place to another through prongs protruding from the machine. Forklift operators are responsible for loading and unloading cargo, operating the machine to ensure that the cargo reaches its destination, and complying with safety protocols. They are also in-charge of maintenance work on the machine and reporting any challenges or issues that may be encountered. Forklift operators must be physically fit and alert at all times.
A loader operator is responsible for operating and driving multi-wheeled heavy vehicles to transport goods and services from the distribution centers to various locations. Loader operators must have excellent driving skills and a clean driving record to ensure smooth operations and timely deliveries. They also maintain the stability and efficiency of the engine, conduct regular maintenance, and perform repairs for any inconsistencies to avoid potential hazards and prevent operational delays. A loader operator responds to the customers' inquiries and concerns and escalates their complaints to the management.
Forklift operators and loader operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Forklift Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Average salary | $34,213 | $36,987 |
| Salary range | Between $27,000 And $42,000 | Between $29,000 And $46,000 |
| Highest paying City | Minneapolis, MN | Bismarck, ND |
| Highest paying state | North Dakota | Alaska |
| Best paying company | DeWitt LLP Law Firm | Dairy Farmers of America |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Construction |
There are a few differences between a forklift operator and a loader operator in terms of educational background:
| Forklift Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 59% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between forklift operators' and loader operators' demographics:
| Forklift Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Average age | 43 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 92.0% Female, 8.0% | Male, 94.1% Female, 5.9% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 16.5% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 19.9% Asian, 2.5% White, 55.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% | Black or African American, 14.3% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 18.5% Asian, 2.6% White, 59.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9% |
| LGBT Percentage | 4% | 4% |