How much does a Forklift Operator make?
A Forklift Operator plays a key role in many industries, from manufacturing to logistics. They earn a solid income that reflects their important work. The average yearly salary for a Forklift Operator is around $39,306. This means most operators can expect to make a decent living.
The salary for Forklift Operators can vary based on experience and location. Some earn as little as $30,000 a year, while others make over $55,000. Here is a look at the salary distribution:
- 5.44% earn $30,000 or less
- 9.52% earn between $30,000 and $32,325
- 15.86% earn between $32,325 and $34,651
- 20.75% earn between $34,651 and $36,976
- 16.95% earn between $36,976 and $39,302
- 10.90% earn between $39,302 and $41,627
- 7.40% earn between $41,627 and $43,953
- 3.43% earn between $43,953 and $46,278
- 2.11% earn between $46,278 and $48,604
- 1.71% earn between $48,604 and $50,929
- 0.92% earn over $50,929
What are the highest paying cities for a Forklift Operator?
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $52,473
Manchester offers a thriving job market for those in logistics. With companies like BAE Systems and BAE Systems Armament Systems, opportunities abound. The city's central location makes it easy to commute and find work.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $50,286
Santa Rosa provides a dynamic environment for warehouse jobs. Companies like Charles Schwab and Sonoma International Airport create many openings. The city's growing tech scene adds to job stability.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $49,815
San Jose is a hub for tech and logistics. With giants like Apple and Cisco Systems, there are plenty of roles available. The city's vibrant culture and good schools make it a great place to live and work.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $49,673
Providence offers a mix of industrial and tech jobs. Companies such as CVS Health and Textron Systems provide many opportunities. The city's rich history and affordable living add to its appeal.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $49,639
Seattle is a prime location for warehouse jobs. With companies like Amazon and Boeing, the demand for operators is high. The city's scenic beauty and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to work.
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Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $48,228
Allentown has a strong manufacturing sector. Companies like Air Products and Chemicals and Mack Trucks offer many positions. The city's central location makes it easy to find work and commute.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $47,779
Albany provides a mix of government and private sector jobs. Companies like General Electric and New York State Department of Transportation offer many roles. The city's rich history and cultural attractions add to its charm.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $45,686
Syracuse offers a variety of job opportunities in logistics. Companies like Syracuse University and Wegmans Food Markets create many openings. The city's affordable living and vibrant arts scene make it a great place to work.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $45,014
Modesto has a growing job market in logistics. Companies like Grace Davis High School and The State of California offer many positions. The city's affordable living and family-friendly environment make it a good place to work.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $44,692
Spokane offers a mix of industrial and service jobs. Companies like Washington Trust Bank and Spokane County provide many opportunities. The city's scenic beauty and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live and work.
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What are the best companies a Forklift Operator can work for?
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Uline
Average Salary: $59,454
Uline offers competitive salaries for Forklift Operators. They operate in many locations across the U.S. and Canada. Uline provides a safe and supportive work environment.
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ABF Freight
Average Salary: $56,126
ABF Freight pays well for Forklift Operators. They have facilities in over 30 states. ABF Freight values teamwork and safety.
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US Defense Logistics Agency
Average Salary: $54,521
The US Defense Logistics Agency offers good salaries for Forklift Operators. They work in various locations across the U.S. and internationally. They focus on safety and efficiency.
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Sierra Pacific Industries
Average Salary: $53,661
Sierra Pacific Industries provides a solid salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in the western U.S. They emphasize safety and career growth.
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Nestlé Purina
Average Salary: $53,099
Nestlé Purina offers competitive pay for Forklift Operators. They have facilities in many locations. They focus on safety and employee well-being.
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Church & Dwight Co.
Average Salary: $52,912
Church & Dwight Co. provides good salaries for Forklift Operators. They operate in various locations. They value teamwork and safety.
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Midwest Motor Express, Inc.
Average Salary: $52,733
Midwest Motor Express, Inc. offers competitive pay for Forklift Operators. They have locations across the U.S. They focus on safety and employee development.
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IKEA
Average Salary: $52,471
IKEA offers good salaries for Forklift Operators. They have stores in many locations. They focus on safety and teamwork.
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MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC
Average Salary: $52,241
MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC provides a solid salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in California. They emphasize safety and career growth.
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Estes Express Lines
Average Salary: $51,816
Estes Express Lines offers good pay for Forklift Operators. They have locations across the U.S. They focus on safety and employee well-being.
How to earn more as a Forklift Operator?
A Forklift Operator can increase earnings through various strategies. Gaining experience and expertise in operating different types of forklifts can lead to higher pay. Employers often value operators who can handle specialized equipment. Certifications from recognized organizations can also boost earning potential. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to safety and proficiency.
Additional skills can further enhance a Forklift Operator's salary. Learning to operate in diverse environments, such as cold storage or hazardous areas, can make an operator more valuable. Taking on supervisory roles or training new employees can lead to higher pay. Operators who excel in efficiency and productivity often receive bonuses or raises. Networking within the industry and staying informed about market trends can also open up higher-paying opportunities.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Forklift Operator:
- Certifications: Obtain certifications from recognized organizations to demonstrate proficiency and safety.
- Specialized Skills: Learn to operate different types of forklifts and in various environments to increase value.
- Leadership Roles: Take on supervisory roles or train new employees to earn higher pay.
- Efficiency and Productivity: Excel in efficiency and productivity to receive bonuses or raises.
- Networking and Market Awareness: Network within the industry and stay informed about market trends to find higher-paying opportunities.
