Forklift Operator Forklift Operator Salary in Des Moines, IA

Forklift Operator Salary in Des Moines, IA

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Forklift Operator make in Des Moines, IA?

The average salary for a Forklift Operator is $45,389 per year in Des Moines, IA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Forklift Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA, showing an average salary of $45,389 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Forklift Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA, showing an average salary of $3,782 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Forklift Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA, showing an average salary of $873 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Forklift Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA, showing an average salary of $22 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Des Moines, IA, a Forklift Operator earns an average yearly salary of $45,389. This is a solid income for those interested in this role. The salary range can vary depending on several factors, such as experience, company size, and industry.

The range of salaries shows that many forklift operators in Des Moines earn between $34,000 and $54,040 annually. A smaller number make at the higher end of the scale, while most fall somewhere in the middle. This range gives a clear view of what to expect in terms of earnings. Some operators may also earn bonuses or overtime pay, which can add to their total income.

Forklift Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA
View all Forklift Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA

What are the highest paying cities for a Forklift Operator near Des Moines, IA?

Urbandale offers great opportunities for Forklift Operators, with an average salary of $46,178. Those willing to travel a bit might find higher-paying jobs in Cedar Rapids, where the average salary reaches $43,766. Fort Dodge also presents good earning potential with an average salary of $42,595 for Forklift Operators.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forklift Operator jobs near Des Moines, IA, highlighting Urbandale, IA with the highest at $46,178 and Waterloo, IA with the lowest at $40,204.

  1. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $46,178
    Urbandale offers a dynamic environment for operators. Companies like Hy-Vee and Menards often hire here. Opportunities include handling goods in a well-established retail sector.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Urbandale, IA


  2. Clinton, IA
    Average Salary: $45,297
    Clinton is known for its industrial parks and large manufacturing plants. Companies like John Deere and Cargill create openings for operators. The city's focus on agriculture and manufacturing makes it a great place to work.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Clinton, IA


  3. Cedar Rapids, IA
    Average Salary: $43,766
    Cedar Rapids is home to large companies in manufacturing and logistics. Companies like Rockwell Collins and General Mills frequently look for operators. The city's robust economy provides stable job opportunities.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  4. Fort Dodge, IA
    Average Salary: $42,595
    Fort Dodge offers a smaller city feel with significant manufacturing presence. Companies like Tyson Foods and General Mills are hiring. Working here means supporting big-name brands and ensuring smooth supply chains.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  5. Ames, IA
    Average Salary: $42,321
    Ames is known for its educational institutions and family-owned businesses. Companies like Hy-Vee and State Farm need operators. The city’s diverse economy offers varied job opportunities.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Ames, IA


  6. Davenport, IA
    Average Salary: $41,868
    Davenport's location along the Mississippi River makes it a key logistics hub. Companies like John Deere and Freightliner need operators. Working here means being part of a thriving transportation industry.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Davenport, IA


  7. Sioux City, IA
    Average Salary: $40,747
    Sioux City offers a mix of agriculture and manufacturing jobs. Companies like Tyson Foods and JBS USA are hiring. The city’s central location in the Midwest makes it a key spot for distribution.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Sioux City, IA


  8. Iowa City, IA
    Average Salary: $40,714
    Iowa City benefits from its university setting. Companies like Hy-Vee and the University of Iowa need operators. Working here combines a vibrant community with educational opportunities.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Iowa City, IA


  9. Muscatine, IA
    Average Salary: $40,555
    Muscatine is known for its riverfront and industrial facilities. Companies like Cargill and John Deere often hire. The city’s strong industrial base provides stable job prospects.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Muscatine, IA


  10. Waterloo, IA
    Average Salary: $40,204
    Waterloo offers a mix of large companies and startups. Companies like John Deere and CRST The Transport Company need operators. Working here means being part of a community with a strong manufacturing heritage.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Waterloo, IA

What are the best paying companies for a Forklift Operator in Des Moines, IA?

XPO offers the highest salaries for Forklift Operators in Des Moines, IA, with an average of $51,546 per year. R+L Carriers follows closely with an average salary of $48,024 annually. CrossCountry Freight Solutions provides $45,000 per year, while Aerotek offers $37,429 on average. These companies provide solid opportunities for those looking to secure a stable and well-paying career in forklift operations.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forklift Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA, highlighting XPO with the highest at $51,546 and Aerotek with the lowest at $37,429.

  1. XPO
    Average Salary: $51,546
    XPO offers competitive salaries for Forklift Operators in Des Moines. The company has multiple warehouses and distribution centers in the area. Operators have the chance to work with advanced technology and systems.


  2. R+L Carriers
    Average Salary: $48,024
    R+L Carriers pays a solid wage for Forklift Operators in Des Moines. The company operates several locations throughout the city. Forklift Operators here benefit from ongoing training and development programs.


  3. CrossCountry Freight Solutions
    Average Salary: $45,000
    CrossCountry Freight Solutions provides a good salary for Forklift Operators. The company has multiple sites in Des Moines, where operators can learn and grow. Employees enjoy a supportive and safe work environment.


  4. Aerotek
    Average Salary: $37,429
    Aerotek offers a decent salary for Forklift Operators in Des Moines. They work with a variety of clients in the area. Operators here can find temporary and permanent positions. The company provides training and support.

Currently 4,595 Forklift Operator job openings, nationwide.

View Forklift Operator Jobs in Des Moines, IA

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.
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Forklift Operator
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