How to Become a Forklift Operator

What do Forklift Operators do?

A Forklift Operator would typically need to:

• Using a forklift, move, locate, relocate, stack, and count stock in warehouses, storage yards, factories, building sites, and other work locations.
• Set up the forklift and load and unload pallets from trucks, ships, freight-train cars, and aeroplane cargo holds using steering wheels, pedals, and hydraulic levers.
• Supply necessary products to production locations and transport final goods to a warehouse storage space after ensuring the loads are secure.
• Use specified signals to direct workers when constructing pallets or filling crates.
• Pick up large or strangely shaped items directly with the fork; assist in the packing of goods; and manually load and unload trucks as needed.
• Move and stack the loaded pallets/crates in the appropriate storage bays; keep a record of the material transported and its current storage location.
• Assist with physical inventories in order to maintain strict inventory control and security, as well as proper product rotation and restocking.
• Incoming and leaving shipments must be inspected for damage. Weight-sensitive commodities must be measured and recorded precisely; deviations must be reported.
• Ensure that the correct type and number of products are loaded and carried out in accordance with the supply manager’s particular instructions.
• Transport items to and from storage places in a timely and efficient manner according to a predetermined plan or schedule.
• Fill orders and pick, receive store, and load products using radio frequency devices; stack empty pallets
• Conduct comprehensive and frequent inspections and maintenance on all machines under their control; handle minor repairs as needed.

Standard Work Environment

Forklift Operators operate forklifts both indoors and outdoors in warehouses, factories, storage yards, building sites, supply yards, and loading docks.

The workplace typically lacks air conditioning and may be contaminated with fumes, smells, and hazardous substances, depending on the material being moved. It will also be incredibly noisy and cramped, and you may be required to wear protective gear at all times.

Work Schedule

Forklift Operators normally work full-time for 40 hours per week, with the possibility of overtime. They work eight-hour shifts, some of them around the clock at facilities that are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Employers

Finding a new job may appear difficult. Forklift Operators can improve their job search by soliciting referrals from their network, contacting firms directly, using job search platforms, attending job fairs, leveraging social media, and contacting staffing agencies.

Forklift Operators are generally employed by: 

• Warehousing and Storage Facilities
• Wholesale Trade Industries
• Temporary Help Services
• Manufacturing Industries
• Construction Companies
• Freight Centers and Ports

Unions / Professional Organizations

Professional associations and organisations, such as The Forklift Truck Association (FLTA), are essential for Forklift Operators who want to advance their careers or network with other professionals in their industry or sector. Membership in one or more of these organisations adds value to your CV while strengthening your credentials and qualifications.

Workplace Challenges

• Workplaces that are hazardous due to temperature extremes, loud noises and, on occasion, fumes, odours, and other dangerous substances
• Physical strain and injury due to regular lifting and pushing of heavy objects and frequent bending and stretching
• High probability of injury from working around heavy goods and equipment that needs constant use of clear eyesight, attention to detail and quick reactions
• The need to handle greasy and dirty vehicle components and tools regularly during daily forklift maintenance

Suggested Work Experience

Work experience in forklift operation can be tough to come by. Nonetheless, any practical knowledge gained through certification classes will be beneficial.

Employers typically provide enough on-the-job training to new workers until they can demonstrate their ability to safely operate the forklift while taking into account the relevant weights and distances. You may be confident that you will receive training in this area as well because they are obligated to present documents to confirm their Forklift Operators’ compliance with the current local and national legislation governing safety.

To demonstrate your devotion to prospective employers and obtain a complete understanding of the career path, read about the profession and interview or job shadow experienced Forklift Operators.

Recommended Qualifications

Forklift Operators, in general, conduct entry-level employment and hence do not require any formal academic qualifications beyond a high school diploma or its equivalent, which provides them with solid general knowledge.

In high school, emphasise mathematics and physical education.

Certifications, Licenses and Registration

Accredited community colleges, vocational institutions, private and online education providers, and forklift certification will help you stand out in a competitive work market, carry a large salary premium of up to 18%, and boost your prospects of development.

Some organisations may even consider forklift certification to be a mandatory requirement, and they may be ready to pay for their newly hired Forklift Operators to attend the training.

Applicants must complete a six- to eight-hour training programme that combines classroom instruction with practical equipment drills in a warehouse, after which they must pass written and practical exams.

Despite the fact that the practical portion of the process examines your ability to manoeuvre the forklift through a proper obstacle course, you may be needed to undergo an additional hands-on evaluation on the job site. To increase your confidence, use freely accessible online practice tests.

A person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle records (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and drug screening may be required.

Furthermore, depending on your company and the nature of your profession, you may be required to obtain a valid driver’s licence.

Projected Career Map

Forklift Operators advance in their careers based on their performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional certifications. They can eventually become Supervisors with more duties. Some can also become Forklift Safety Instructors with additional training.

Job Prospects

Candidates with the relevant abilities, experience, certification, and training will have the best career opportunities.

Beneficial Professional Development

CPD will assist an active Forklift Operator in developing personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

CPD is also beneficial when it comes time to renew your credentials every couple of years. Many organisations prefer to have their own certification programmes in place to assure their frequent renewal.

Conclusion of Forklift Operator

The simple fact that practically every item we consume has been handled by a Forklift Operator highlights the critical role they play in simplifying global product supply networks.

Advice from the Wise

To avoid technological mishaps, inspect your forklift on a daily basis and perform regular maintenance.

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