Job Description: Forklift Operators drive and run gasoline or electric-powered forklifts (sometimes called industrial trucks or tractors) which have forks and hydraulic lifting machinery, to move heavy supplies, goods, and other materials around a warehouse, storage yard, factory, construction site, wholesale businesses, and loading areas.
Forklift Operators may work both indoors and outdoors. The work includes loading and unloading freight cars, trucks, aircraft, and ships. Most material moved or stacked is on pallets or small platforms, but some material is placed directly on the forks of the truck. Operators may keep records of material moved and do some hand loading and unloading.
Forklift Operators may refuel or recharge the vehicle, check the oil and battery, lube it, and make minor repairs and adjustments. Operators may also work as stock clerks, shipping clerks, receiving clerks, or warehouse workers when not driving a forklift.
Wages - Statewide:
To give you an idea of how much you might earn, we have given you the average hourly wages and average yearly wages for this career throughout California. Wages can vary greatly in different parts of the State.
Hourly Average Wages:
$
34,037
Yearly Average Wages:
$
34,037
Source: California Occupational Employment and Wage Data, 2008
Job Openings:
An average of 2510 job openings will be available statewide per year. The number of openings includes both new jobs and replacement openings as workers leave the occupation.
Source: California Occupational Employment Projections 2004 - 2014
Where to get training locally: The usual way to learn the job is by working where forklift trucks are used and taking every chance to watch and learn. Some employers have formal training programs and give certificates to employees who complete training. These programs teach employees how to operate forklifts, handle materials and make simple repairs. They also cover plant layout and operation and safe driving rules.
To find training programs in your area you can check the LaborMarketInfo Web site at
