How long does it take to become a Forklift Operator?

It takes 3 years of professional experience to become a forklift operator. That is the time it takes to learn specific forklift operator skills, but does not account for time spent in formal education.

Do forklift operators make good money?

No, forklift operators do not make good money. The lowest-paid forklift operators are only paid around $19,000 a year, while the highest only reach about $35,000 in total annual salary, both of which are well below the average salary across all jobs in the United States.

Is a forklift operator a good job?

Yes, being a forklift operator can be a good job for the right person. While many might consider the job a drag, the right individual will find it a great job that fits their skills, interests, and aptitude.

Is forklift operator an easy job?

Yes, forklift operator is an easy job. All a person needs to become a forklift operator is a high school diploma or equivalent and some specialized training in operating forklifts. Forklifts are classified as heavy equipment. While they do not move fast, they can lift enormous amounts of weight and do a lot of damage in the process if they are not used correctly.

Is forklift training hard?

No, forklift training is not hard. A person interested in becoming a forklift operator can take the forklift training from a vocational school or community college that offers such a course.

How To Become A Forklift Operator: What It Is and Career Path

What is a forklift operator and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

A forklift operator handles a specialized industrial vehicle to move and transport heavy materials and goods in warehouses, construction sites, and industrial settings. Their duties include loading and unloading trucks, storing materials, and transporting goods within a facility. Forklift operators require training and certification to operate these vehicles safely to prevent accidents and ensure proper handling. They may also perform routine maintenance on their equipment.

ScoreForklift OperatorUS Average

Salary

2.7

Avg. Salary $34,213

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

8.3

Growth rate 7%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

8.8

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.82%

Asian 2.45%

Black or African American 16.55%

Hispanic or Latino 19.90%

Unknown 4.38%

White 55.90%

Gender

female 7.96%

male 92.04%

Age - 44

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 44

Stress level

8.3

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity level

8.8

Complexity level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work life balance

3.8

Work life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being a forklift operator?

Pros

Good pay
Opportunity for advancement
Learn new skills
Physical activity keeps you active and healthy
Job security

Cons

Risk of injury or accidents
Exposure to loud noises
Risk of exposure to hazardous materials
Can be stressful during busy periods
Limited opportunities for creativity

Key steps to become a forklift operator

Explore forklift operator education requirements

Most common forklift operator degrees

High School Diploma

59.3 %

Diploma

15.3 %

Associate

12.5 %

Start to develop specific forklift operator skills

Skills	Percentages
Pallets	17.92%
Basic Math	5.61%
Electric Pallet Jack	5.15%
OSHA	5.02%
Safety Procedures	4.77%

Complete relevant forklift operator training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New forklift operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a forklift operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real forklift operator resumes.

Research forklift operator duties and responsibilities

Use automate systems and RF units to pull, put away and load customer product, in addition to managing inventory
Position forks under, over, or around load pallets, boxes, products, and transports load to designate area.
Transport raw materials to storage or point of production base on FIFO.
Remove press parts from line and place into WIP locations by FIFO.

Prepare your forklift operator resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your forklift operator resume.

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