How much does a Forklift Operator make?

The average salary for a Forklift Operator is $43,126 per year in United States. Salaries estimates are based on 19117 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by a Forklift Operator employees in United States.

The highest salary for a Forklift Operator in United States is $49,438 per year.

The lowest salary for a Forklift Operator in United States is $37,749 per year.

If you are thinking of becoming a Forklift Operator or planning the next step in your career, find details about the role, the career path and salary trajectory of a Forklift Operator.

Forklift operators are paid salaries slightly below that of other skilled workers including crane operators, millwrights, welders, cutters, plumbers, tool makers, and medical equipment repairers. Forklift operators working as apprentices earn less pay than operators who have completed the programs, and overall pay generally raises with seniority and experience. Most forklift operators work full time. Overtime or late-night shifts are typically available. Successful forklift drivers can be promoted into managerial positions.

Powered by Glassdoor Economic Research

Many forklift operators work in warehouses and other large facilities where overtime and profit sharing can bring in an average of $1,769.42 per year. Around 67% of forklift operators claim to be satisfied with their salary.

A forklift operator's total pay varies depending on the industry and region of the country. Top-earners in the forklift operator career path can earn a salary and bonuses up to $55,890.47 per year. The average operator earns about $41,357.64, while those at the start of their career are at the low end of the pay range, around $33,512.02.

Forklift operators have upward mobility within their job roles, as there are steps that can be taken to increase income. For starters, switching to a night shift and taking advantage of overtime opportunities may produce an immediate pay increase. Their value to the company can also be improved by learning to work with new types of forklift equipment and by proving they are able to handle difficult tasks and expensive inventory. Finally, many companies will reward workers who become OSHA Powered Industrial Trucks certified and may even pay for this training.

Forklift operators with an impeccable safety record and proven expertise in executing difficult forklift tasks should be in a good position to negotiate an increase in their forklift operator salary. Review the job descriptions of a senior forklift operator by reading job openings. If you meet or exceed the job requirements for a senior role, then prepare to state your case to management. Emphasize your extensive forklift experience, the types of forklifts you can operate, and your excellent safety record. If you are applying for a new position, your job interview is a great opportunity to negotiate a higher starting salary as a forklift operator.