Forklift Operator

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A career as a Forklift Operator

A Forklift Operator is responsible for operating forklifts and moving goods around warehouses and other sites. Duties include using forklifts to unload deliveries, stacking boxes for storage and moving wooden pallets around the warehouse.

Forklift Operators are able to manoeuvre their vehicles with skill and precision to efficiently perform operations such as loading, unloading, lifting, transporting, placing and stacking goods and materials. They are required to follow designated routes that are planned to be as safe as possible for other warehouse staff. Operators are also responsible for ensuring that the loads they transport are not damaged during handling operations.

Also known as: Forklift Driver, Forklift Truck Driver

Skills/Knowledge

You'll need:

  • driving skills and an accredited forklift operating licence from an industry-recognised body to safely and legally operate forklifts in a warehouse

  • physical skills such as mobility and co-ordination

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail

  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations

  • practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment

  • the ability to work well with others

  • to follow instructions from the Warehouse Team Leader and Manager

  • concentration skills and good spatial awareness

  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Salary

NB These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and the skills and experience of the employee.

£16,000
Typical salaries
range from
£26,000
Typical Hours

40–46 hours per week. This role may require shift work and working on evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.

Day to Day
  • Check equipment daily and carry out basic maintenance

  • Load and unload goods from lorries, checking they are secure before moving off

  • Use radio frequency equipment to keep in touch with other staff

  • Manually handle goods safely when necessary

  • Stack goods and move them around in storage bays

  • Complete paperwork for delivery notes and stock control

  • Adhere to health and safety regulations

Working Environment

You will need to wear PPE such as hard hats, high-vis jackets, hearing protection and appropriate footwear.

Training Available

Training is an essential part of any job, giving you the skills and knowledge you need to do your job safely and correctly. It also helps to strengthen your current skill set and prepares you for the next stage in your career.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships help you build the experience and skills that employers want to see. No matter what stage you’re at, they’ll help set you up for a bright future. There are lots of ways to get involved.

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