Forklift operators are responsible for loading, unloading, shipping, and receiving warehouse items, transporting materials within the facility, optimizing loads for operational efficiency, securing loads to the machine before transport, and managing inventory using RF scanning equipment[1].
Duties also include inspecting equipment for damages, scheduling vehicles for maintenance and repairs, operating technical equipment, picking and wrapping orders for shipment, identifying workplace safety hazards, adhering to safety management standards, and following production schedules[1].
Additional tasks often cover organizing and securing stored materials, performing pre- and post-shift inspections, reporting faulty equipment or hazards, shrinking wrapping pallets, weighing products, moving hazardous materials, and maintaining a clean and safe work area[3]. Operators may need to rotate stock and use radio frequency equipment for picking, put-away, receiving, and load functions. Coordination with managers and coworkers for loading operations, preparing shipping documentation, and attending meetings may also be required[3].
A high school diploma or GED is typically required, as well as a valid forklift certification[1]. Forklift operators should have excellent hand-eye coordination, proficiency in technical machinery and RF scanners, strong organizational and communication skills, good physical fitness, reliability, the ability to work well under pressure, mathematical aptitude, and attention to detail[1][2][7].
Certification involves formal instruction, hands-on training, and a performance evaluation, per OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards[4]. Certification must be renewed every three years and training must cover both equipment operation fundamentals and workplace-specific hazards[4][6]. Operators must be at least 18 years old to get certified and are only permitted to operate the specific class of forklift for which they’ve been trained[6].
Physical demands include sitting or standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and working in fast-paced environments[2][5]. Attention to safety, the ability to follow instructions, problem-solving skills, and maintaining a clean and organized work area are also emphasized[2][5].
References
- [1] Forklift Operator Job Description – Betterteam
- [2] How to become a forklift operator – EmployBridge
- [3] Basic Forklift Operator Job Description – Forklift Academy
- [4] Forklift Certification Training | OSHA Education Center
- [5] Forklift Operator Job Description PDF – KC Boxes
- [6] OSHA Forklift Certification Requirements & Training Rules – CertifyMe.net
- [7] Forklift Operator Job Description [Updated 2025] – Indeed