How much does a Forklift Operator make?
A Forklift Operator plays a key role in many industries, from manufacturing to logistics. This job involves moving heavy materials around warehouses and factories. The average yearly salary for a Forklift Operator is around $39,464. This means that, on average, someone in this role can expect to earn this amount each year.
The salary for a Forklift Operator can vary based on experience and location. Some operators earn less than $30,000, while others make more than $55,000. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:
- 5.13% earn less than $30,000
- 9.17% earn between $30,000 and $32,349
- 19.46% earn between $32,349 and $34,698
- 17.16% earn between $34,698 and $37,047
- 16.94% earn between $37,047 and $39,396
- 12.93% earn between $39,396 and $41,745
- 5.64% earn between $41,745 and $44,095
- 3.64% earn between $44,095 and $46,444
- 2.16% earn between $46,444 and $48,793
- 1.62% earn between $48,793 and $51,142
- 1.16% earn more than $51,142
What are the highest paying cities for a Forklift Operator?
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $52,402
In Manchester, NH, operators handle goods for major logistics companies. The city's thriving industrial sector offers many job opportunities. Companies like ABC Logistics and XYZ Distribution are always looking for skilled operators.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $51,373
Santa Rosa, CA, provides a dynamic environment for operators. The city's strong agricultural sector creates steady demand. Companies such as Farm Fresh and Produce Plus need reliable operators to manage their supply chains.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $50,460
Seattle, WA, offers a bustling job market for operators. The city's port and tech industries drive the need for skilled workers. Companies like Amazon and Port of Seattle offer many positions for those with the right skills.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $49,945
Providence, RI, has a diverse job market for operators. The city's mix of manufacturing and healthcare sectors provides many opportunities. Companies such as Lifespan and CVS Health often look for experienced operators.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $49,709
San Jose, CA, is a tech hub with a high demand for operators. The city's many tech companies need skilled workers to manage their supply chains. Companies like Apple and Intel offer many positions for those with the right skills.
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Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $48,994
Allentown, PA, offers a stable job market for operators. The city's manufacturing sector provides steady employment. Companies like Mack Trucks and Air Products need reliable operators to manage their supply chains.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $48,431
Albany, NY, provides a mix of job opportunities for operators. The city's government and healthcare sectors offer many positions. Companies like New York State Government and St. Peter's Health Partner Services often look for skilled operators.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $45,930
Syracuse, NY, offers a diverse job market for operators. The city's manufacturing and education sectors provide many opportunities. Companies like Syracuse University and Wegmans Food Markets often need experienced operators.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $45,034
Modesto, CA, has a growing job market for operators. The city's agricultural sector creates steady demand. Companies like C&B Produce and Grace Flower Farms need reliable operators to manage their supply chains.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $44,547
Spokane, WA, offers a stable job market for operators. The city's manufacturing and healthcare sectors provide many opportunities. Companies like Spokane Public Schools and Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center often look for skilled operators.
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What are the best companies a Forklift Operator can work for?
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Uline
Average Salary: $59,105
Uline offers competitive salaries for Forklift Operators. They operate in many locations across the U.S. and Canada. Uline provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth.
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Sierra Pacific Industries
Average Salary: $55,423
Sierra Pacific Industries provides a solid salary for Forklift Operators. They have operations in the western U.S. The company values safety and offers a supportive work environment.
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Nestlé Purina
Average Salary: $53,905
Nestlé Purina offers a good salary for Forklift Operators. They have facilities across the U.S. The company focuses on employee well-being and offers various benefits.
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Midwest Motor Express, Inc.
Average Salary: $52,668
Midwest Motor Express, Inc. provides a competitive salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in multiple states. The company emphasizes teamwork and offers growth opportunities.
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Church & Dwight Co.
Average Salary: $52,548
Church & Dwight Co. offers a good salary for Forklift Operators. They have locations across the U.S. The company values safety and offers a positive work environment.
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MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC
Average Salary: $52,476
MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC provides a solid salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in California. The company focuses on safety and offers a supportive work environment.
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IKEA
Average Salary: $52,471
IKEA offers a competitive salary for Forklift Operators. They have stores across the U.S. The company values teamwork and offers a dynamic work environment.
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Kemps
Average Salary: $51,574
Kemps provides a good salary for Forklift Operators. They operate in the Midwest. The company emphasizes safety and offers a supportive work environment.
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Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling
Average Salary: $49,713
Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling offers a solid salary for Forklift Operators. They have locations in California. The company values teamwork and offers a positive work environment.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $49,602
Abbott provides a good salary for Forklift Operators. They have facilities across the U.S. The company focuses on employee well-being and offers various benefits.
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 a candidate more valuable. Taking on supervisory roles or training new operators can lead to higher pay. Networking within the industry can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions. Staying informed about industry trends and advancements can also help in negotiating better wages.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Gain experience with different types of forklifts.
- Obtain certifications from recognized organizations.
- Develop skills for specialized environments.
- Take on supervisory or training roles.
- Network within the industry for better opportunities.
