Forklift Operator Salary in Seattle, WA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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Salary

How much does a Forklift Operator make in Seattle, WA?

The average salary for a Forklift Operator is $47,236 per year in Seattle, WA.

A Forklift Operator in Seattle, WA, can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average salary for this role is around $47,236 per year. This figure can vary based on experience and specific job duties. Many operators start with a salary between $38,000 and $40,000 annually. As they gain more experience, salaries can rise to between $54,000 and $60,000 per year.

Several factors can influence a Forklift Operator's salary in Seattle. These include the size of the company, the industry, and the operator's level of experience. Those with certifications or specialized training may also see higher pay. Additionally, operators who work in warehouses with high demand for goods may earn more due to the increased workload.

Forklift Operator jobs in Seattle, WA

What are the highest paying cities for a Forklift Operator near Seattle, WA?

Job seekers looking for forklift operator roles near Seattle can find attractive opportunities in nearby cities. Bellevue, Redmond, and Renton offer some of the highest salaries, with Bellevue leading at $48,627. These cities provide a mix of industries that rely on efficient logistics, making them ideal for those seeking stable and well-paying jobs. Exploring these areas can lead to rewarding career paths with competitive compensation.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forklift Operator jobs near Seattle, WA, highlighting Bellevue, WA with the highest at $48,627 and Issaquah, WA with the lowest at $40,375.
  1. Bellevue, WA
    Average Salary: $48,627
    In Bellevue, you can find many tech companies with warehouses needing goods moved. Companies like Amazon and Costco offer many opportunities. The area is known for its fast-paced environment and good pay.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Bellevue, WA


  2. Redmond, WA
    Average Salary: $46,654
    Redmond is home to Microsoft and other tech giants. Warehouses here are busy with constant shipments. It's a great place to work with a chance to grow your career in a tech hub.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Redmond, WA


  3. Renton, WA
    Average Salary: $46,223
    Renton has Boeing and other large companies with big warehouses. The work here is steady and pays well. It's a good place to build a career in logistics.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Renton, WA


  4. Auburn, WA
    Average Salary: $45,177
    Auburn offers a mix of manufacturing and retail warehouses. Companies like Starbucks and others need operators here. The area is known for its friendly community and good job opportunities.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Auburn, WA


  5. Kent, WA
    Average Salary: $43,054
    Kent has many warehouses for companies like Costco and Amazon. The work is fast-paced and pays well. It's a great place to start or grow your career in logistics.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Kent, WA


  6. Federal Way, WA
    Average Salary: $42,300
    Federal Way is home to many logistics companies. Warehouses here are busy with constant shipments. It's a good place to work with opportunities for career growth.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA


  7. Issaquah, WA
    Average Salary: $40,375
    Issaquah has many tech companies with warehouses needing goods moved. Companies like Costco and others offer many opportunities. The area is known for its fast-paced environment and good pay.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Issaquah, WA

What are the best paying companies for a Forklift Operator in Seattle, WA?

Job seekers looking for forklift operator positions in Seattle, WA, can find competitive salaries at ABF Freight, Estes Express Lines, and CertainTeed. These companies offer some of the highest wages in the area, with ABF Freight leading at $55,836 annually. Estes Express Lines and CertainTeed follow closely, providing $55,300 and $54,590 respectively. These opportunities present a chance for skilled operators to earn a good living.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forklift Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, highlighting ABF Freight with the highest at $55,836 and Strategic Materials, Inc. with the lowest at $40,550.
  1. ABF Freight
    Average Salary: $55,836
    ABF Freight offers competitive salaries for Forklift Operators. They have multiple locations in Seattle, including their main office and several distribution centers. ABF Freight is known for its strong safety culture and career growth opportunities.


  2. Estes Express Lines
    Average Salary: $55,300
    Estes Express Lines provides a solid salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in various locations around Seattle, focusing on logistics and transportation. The company values teamwork and offers a supportive work environment.


  3. CertainTeed
    Average Salary: $54,590
    CertainTeed offers a good salary for Forklift Operators. They have facilities in Seattle where they manufacture building materials. The company emphasizes safety and provides training to ensure operators are well-prepared.


  4. Midwest Motor Express, Inc.
    Average Salary: $53,438
    Midwest Motor Express, Inc. provides a competitive salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in several locations in Seattle, focusing on transportation services. The company values its employees and offers a positive work environment.


  5. Peopleready
    Average Salary: $51,667
    Peopleready offers a solid salary for Forklift Operators. They have multiple locations in Seattle, providing staffing solutions for various industries. The company focuses on employee development and offers opportunities for career advancement.


  6. RAY-MONT LOGISTICS
    Average Salary: $50,000
    RAY-MONT LOGISTICS provides a competitive salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in several locations in Seattle, focusing on logistics and transportation. The company values safety and offers a supportive work environment.


  7. Empire Workforce Solutions
    Average Salary: $45,958
    Empire Workforce Solutions offers a good salary for Forklift Operators. They have multiple locations in Seattle, providing staffing solutions for various industries. The company focuses on employee satisfaction and offers a positive work environment.


  8. Seattle Boat
    Average Salary: $44,323
    Seattle Boat offers a fair salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in Seattle, focusing on marine services. The company values teamwork and offers a supportive work environment.


  9. Capital Industries, Inc
    Average Salary: $42,143
    Capital Industries, Inc. provides a fair salary for Forklift Operators. They have facilities in Seattle, focusing on manufacturing and distribution. The company values safety and offers a positive work environment.


  10. Strategic Materials, Inc.
    Average Salary: $40,550
    Strategic Materials, Inc. offers a fair salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in Seattle, focusing on materials handling and distribution. The company values safety and offers a supportive work environment.

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