Forklift Operator Job Description

What is the job description of a Forklift Operator? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Forklift Operator? What does a Forklift Operator do?

Job description of a Forklift Operator

Forklift operators are responsible for operating and managing industrial trucks to load and unload materials and deliveries and move them to and from storage areas, machines and loading docks, into railroad cars or trucks or storage facilities. Some forklift operators move construction materials around building sites or the land around a mine. Others move goods around a warehouse or onto container ships.

This Forklift Operator job description example includes the list of most important Forklift Operator duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Forklift Operator profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Forklift Operator Duties and Responsibilities

Forklift Operator job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Loading, unloading, shipping and receiving warehouse items.
  • Control equipment with levers, wheels, or foot pedals
  • Transporting materials to different locations within the facility.
  • Optimizing loads to ensure operational efficiency.
  • Securing loads to machine before transportation.
  • Picking and wrapping orders for shipment.
  • Identifying workplace safety hazards.
  • Adhering to safety management standards.
  • Adhering to production schedules.
  • Inspecting for damages to vehicles.
  • Scheduling vehicles for maintenance and repairs.
  • Operating and managing technical equipment.
  • Managing inventory by utilizing RF scanning equipment.

Forklift Operator Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Forklift Operator job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • High school diploma or related qualification
  • x years of experience as forklift operator or similar role
  • Attention to detail
  • Valid certification to operate forklifts
  • Good time-management skills
  • Great interpersonal and communication skills
  • Good knowledge of industrial equipment
  • Very good physical condition
  • Excellent coordination

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Forklift Operator starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Forklift Operator job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Forklift Operator may also reference it in preparation for the interview.