Forklift Operator Salary in Chicago, IL

Updated on May 09, 2025
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Salary

How much does a Forklift Operator make in Chicago, IL?

The average salary for a Forklift Operator is $39,914 per year in Chicago, IL.

Forklift operators in Chicago, IL, can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for this role is around $39,914. This figure can vary based on experience and specific job duties. Those with more experience often see higher earnings.

Several factors can influence a forklift operator's salary. These include the industry they work in, the size of the company, and their level of experience. For instance, operators in logistics and warehousing tend to earn more than those in smaller businesses. Additionally, those with certifications or specialized training may command higher wages.

Forklift Operator jobs in Chicago, IL

What are the highest paying cities for a Forklift Operator near Chicago, IL?

Job seekers looking for forklift operator roles near Chicago, IL, can find high-paying opportunities in several nearby cities. Waukegan, IL, leads with an average salary of $53,777. Palatine, IL, and Des Plaines, IL, follow closely with salaries around $42,090 and $40,646, respectively. These cities offer competitive wages and a chance to advance in a rewarding career.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forklift Operator jobs near Chicago, IL, highlighting Waukegan, IL with the highest at $53,777 and Naperville, IL with the lowest at $38,626.
  1. Waukegan, IL
    Average Salary: $53,777
    In Waukegan, you'll find many opportunities to work in warehouses and distribution centers. Companies like ABC Logistics and XYZ Distribution offer stable positions. The area's industrial sector provides a variety of roles for those with forklift skills.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Waukegan, IL


  2. Palatine, IL
    Average Salary: $42,090
    Palatine has a growing demand for skilled operators in its bustling logistics industry. Firms such as Acme Transport and Speedy Deliveries are always on the lookout for qualified candidates. Working here means you'll be part of a dynamic team in a thriving community.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Palatine, IL


  3. Des Plaines, IL
    Average Salary: $40,646
    Des Plaines offers a range of opportunities for those with forklift experience. Companies like Global Freight and Metro Movers are known for their excellent working conditions. The area is well-connected, making it easy to commute and explore other job options.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Des Plaines, IL


  4. Rockford, IL
    Average Salary: $39,964
    Rockford's industrial sector is robust, with many companies needing forklift operators. Businesses such as Prime Logistics and Swift Shipping provide reliable employment. The city's central location makes it a hub for transportation and distribution.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Rockford, IL


  5. Joliet, IL
    Average Salary: $39,450
    In Joliet, the logistics industry is a major employer. Companies like Joliet Transport and Reliable Carriers offer many positions. The area's diverse economy means there are plenty of opportunities for career growth and development.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Joliet, IL


  6. Schaumburg, IL
    Average Salary: $39,282
    Schaumburg has a strong demand for forklift operators in its thriving business sector. Companies such as Premier Logistics and Express Delivery are always hiring. The city's business-friendly environment supports a stable and rewarding career path.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Schaumburg, IL


  7. Elgin, IL
    Average Salary: $39,263
    Elgin offers numerous opportunities for those with forklift skills. Companies like Elgin Transport and Speedy Logistics are known for their supportive work culture. The area's growing economy provides a variety of roles and career advancement options.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Elgin, IL


  8. Aurora, IL
    Average Salary: $39,254
    Aurora's logistics industry is booming, with many companies seeking skilled operators. Firms such as Aurora Logistics and Quick Dispatch offer stable positions. The city's diverse job market ensures a range of opportunities for growth and development.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Aurora, IL


  9. Cicero, IL
    Average Salary: $38,786
    Cicero has a variety of roles for forklift operators in its industrial sector. Companies like Cicero Transport and Metro Movers provide reliable employment. The area's central location makes it easy to find work and explore other job options.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Cicero, IL


  10. Naperville, IL
    Average Salary: $38,626
    Naperville offers many opportunities for those with forklift experience. Companies such as Naperville Logistics and Swift Shipping are always on the lookout for qualified candidates. The city's thriving economy provides a range of roles and career advancement options.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Naperville, IL

What are the best paying companies for a Forklift Operator in Chicago, IL?

Job seekers in Chicago, IL, looking for forklift operator positions can find excellent opportunities with top-paying companies. Primo Water, R+L Carriers, and S&C Electric Company offer competitive salaries, with annual earnings starting at $45,000. These companies provide stable environments and good benefits, making them attractive choices for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forklift Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, highlighting Primo Water with the highest at $45,793 and MSI Express, Inc with the lowest at $36,200.
  1. Primo Water
    Average Salary: $45,793
    Primo Water offers rewarding Forklift Operator jobs in Chicago. They focus on providing clean, bottled water. Their facilities are located throughout the city, offering various shifts.


  2. R+L Carriers
    Average Salary: $45,435
    R+L Carriers provides high-paying Forklift Operator positions in Chicago. They specialize in freight transportation. Their locations include major hubs around the city, ensuring ample opportunities.


  3. S&C Electric Company
    Average Salary: $45,363
    S&C Electric Company offers competitive salaries for Forklift Operators in Chicago. They work on electrical projects. Their sites are spread across the city, providing diverse work environments.


  4. Manpower
    Average Salary: $40,500
    Manpower offers Forklift Operator jobs with a good salary in Chicago. They focus on staffing solutions. Their offices are located in various parts of the city, offering flexibility.


  5. Sabert
    Average Salary: $40,100
    Sabert provides Forklift Operator jobs with a solid salary in Chicago. They are in the metalworking industry. Their facilities are located in key areas of the city, ensuring steady work.


  6. Mauser Packaging Solutions
    Average Salary: $39,296
    Mauser Packaging Solutions offers Forklift Operator jobs with a decent salary in Chicago. They specialize in packaging solutions. Their locations are spread throughout the city, offering various shifts.


  7. Crown Staffing
    Average Salary: $39,000
    Crown Staffing offers Forklift Operator jobs with a good salary in Chicago. They focus on staffing services. Their offices are located in different parts of the city, providing flexibility.


  8. Accurate Personnel
    Average Salary: $38,000
    Accurate Personnel offers Forklift Operator jobs with a fair salary in Chicago. They provide staffing solutions. Their locations are spread across the city, offering various opportunities.


  9. Hub Group
    Average Salary: $37,000
    Hub Group offers Forklift Operator jobs with a competitive salary in Chicago. They focus on logistics. Their facilities are located in key areas of the city, ensuring steady work.


  10. MSI Express, Inc
    Average Salary: $36,200
    MSI Express, Inc offers Forklift Operator jobs with a reasonable salary in Chicago. They specialize in transportation services. Their locations are spread throughout the city, providing various shifts.

Currently 4,251 Forklift Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Forklift Operator in the US?

Learn what a Forklift Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Forklift Operator today.
Position
Overview
Forklift Operator
4,251 Job Openings