Forklift Operator Salary in Tacoma, WA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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Salary

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

The average salary for a Forklift Operator is $41,243 per year in Tacoma, WA.

In Tacoma, WA, a Forklift Operator can earn a good salary. The average annual salary for this role is around $41,243. This means that many operators can expect to make a steady income. The salary can vary based on experience and the specific industry.

The salary range for Forklift Operators in Tacoma can vary. Some operators may earn as little as $36,000 per year, while others can make up to $54,540. The highest earners often have more experience or specialized skills. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth in this career. Operators can increase their earnings by gaining more experience and learning new skills.

Forklift Operator jobs in Tacoma, WA

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

Job seekers looking for forklift operator roles near Tacoma, WA, can find good opportunities in nearby cities. Auburn, WA, offers the highest average salary at $45,177. Puyallup, WA, follows closely with an average salary of $44,870. Fife, WA, provides a competitive salary of $43,535. These cities present attractive options for those seeking stable and well-paying positions in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forklift Operator jobs near Tacoma, WA, highlighting Auburn, WA with the highest at $45,177 and Spanaway, WA with the lowest at $40,375.
  1. Auburn, WA
    Average Salary: $45,177
    In Auburn, you can find many opportunities in warehouses and distribution centers. Companies like Amazon and Costco offer stable positions. The area's logistics industry provides a steady demand for skilled operators.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Auburn, WA


  2. Puyallup, WA
    Average Salary: $44,870
    Puyallup has a growing retail sector, creating many job openings. Local businesses and larger companies need operators to handle goods efficiently. The area's diverse industries offer various shifts and benefits.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Puyallup, WA


  3. Fife, WA
    Average Salary: $43,535
    Fife is home to several large manufacturing plants. Companies like Boeing and other industrial firms rely on operators to keep their supply chains moving. The area offers competitive wages and good benefits.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Fife, WA


  4. Kent, WA
    Average Salary: $43,054
    Kent has a bustling economy with many warehouses and distribution centers. Companies such as Costco and other large retailers need operators to manage their inventory. The area offers a variety of shifts and career growth opportunities.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Kent, WA


  5. Lakewood, WA
    Average Salary: $42,416
    Lakewood offers many job openings in the logistics and retail sectors. Companies like Fred Meyer and other local businesses need skilled operators. The area provides a supportive work environment with good benefits.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Lakewood, WA


  6. Federal Way, WA
    Average Salary: $42,300
    Federal Way has a strong logistics industry with many job opportunities. Companies such as Amazon and other large retailers need operators to handle their goods. The area offers competitive pay and various shifts.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA


  7. Bonney Lake, WA
    Average Salary: $41,375
    Bonney Lake has a thriving manufacturing sector with many job openings. Companies like Boeing and other industrial firms need operators. The area offers good wages and a stable work environment.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Bonney Lake, WA


  8. Sumner, WA
    Average Salary: $41,299
    Sumner has a growing retail and logistics industry. Companies like Costco and other local businesses need operators. The area offers a variety of shifts and good benefits.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Sumner, WA


  9. Spanaway, WA
    Average Salary: $40,375
    Spanaway has many job opportunities in the logistics and retail sectors. Companies such as Fred Meyer and other large retailers need operators. The area offers competitive wages and a supportive work environment.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Spanaway, WA

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

Job seekers looking for forklift operator roles in Tacoma, WA, can find competitive salaries at ABF Freight, Thomas Logistics, and Gray Lumber Company. These companies offer some of the highest wages in the area, with ABF Freight leading at a salary of $54,773. For those seeking a balance of good pay and a reputable employer, these companies provide excellent opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forklift Operator jobs in Tacoma, WA, highlighting ABF Freight with the highest at $54,773 and American Workforce Group, Inc. with the lowest at $40,000.
  1. ABF Freight
    Average Salary: $54,773
    ABF Freight offers competitive salaries for Forklift Operators. They have multiple locations in Tacoma, WA. Their operations include freight transportation and logistics services.


  2. Thomas Logistics
    Average Salary: $53,183
    Thomas Logistics provides good pay for Forklift Operators. They operate in Tacoma, WA, and focus on logistics and supply chain management.


  3. Gray Lumber Company
    Average Salary: $51,500
    Gray Lumber Company offers a solid salary for Forklift Operators. They are located in Tacoma, WA, and specialize in lumber and building materials.


  4. Oldcastle APG
    Average Salary: $44,000
    Oldcastle APG provides a good salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in Tacoma, WA, and are involved in architectural products and building materials.


  5. DHL
    Average Salary: $42,733
    DHL offers a competitive salary for Forklift Operators. They have locations in Tacoma, WA, and are a global leader in logistics and delivery services.


  6. Weyerhaeuser
    Average Salary: $42,400
    Weyerhaeuser provides a fair salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in Tacoma, WA, and are a major player in the forestry and timber industry.


  7. Manke Lumber Co Inc
    Average Salary: $42,000
    Manke Lumber Co Inc offers a good salary for Forklift Operators. They are located in Tacoma, WA, and focus on lumber and building materials.


  8. SmartTalent
    Average Salary: $40,833
    SmartTalent provides a decent salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in Tacoma, WA, and specialize in workforce solutions and staffing.


  9. Express Employment Professionals
    Average Salary: $40,383
    Express Employment Professionals offers a fair salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in Tacoma, WA, and focus on staffing and employment services.


  10. American Workforce Group, Inc.
    Average Salary: $40,000
    American Workforce Group, Inc. provides a good salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in Tacoma, WA, and focus on staffing and employment services.

Currently 4,251 Forklift Operator job openings, nationwide.

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

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Position
Overview
Forklift Operator
4,251 Job Openings