Forklift operators primarily work in warehouse operations, helping to move cargo, log inventory, and ensure that these goods are loaded onto the vehicle securely before setting off. There are different types of Forklift Trucks you can learn to operate. You will be expected to wear proper fitted clothing which won’t get caught anywhere, as well as being provided the appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to wear in the workplace. From high-viz, to hard hats and Steel toe-cap boots.
You would be (normally) expected to already have a Forklift certification, but some businesses have Forklift instructors in house, so they can train you themselves. You also need to update your training every 5 years to keep your certification in date.
Skills
Confidence
If you are not confident in the actions you take, then you will typically be more hesitant with your operating abilities. Being unsure can pose risks to other staff around you, as you could put them at risk of an accident. There is a chance that there could be some obstacles in the way, so you must be confident in your operator abilities, and be sure of any manoeuvre you make.
Communication
You will be working with heavy machinery around other co-workers. You must be able to provide clear instructions to those around you. This helps make others aware of what you are doing, and where the Forklift Truck is going.
Spatial Awareness
There are some situations within a warehouse facility where there could be an obstruction, or you have to turn at a tight angle. Although, once again, there are different Forklift Trucks for certain situations, you need to have a good comprehension of the space around you. Trying to complete a manoeuvre with minimal space can cause damage or injury. If you work in a warehouse, there is a likelihood that there will be foot traffic as well. While there will be clear pathways, you can’t assume that everyone will be adhering to these paths.
Attention to Detail
Before using a Forklift, you will need to complete pre-operational checks. This is vital to ensure the forklift is safe to operate, as any part of the check missed could be a make or break between finding a problem and raising it, to using the machine and causing harm to yourself or others. You need to be aware of the potential dangers there are if the truck is not safe to operate, and if possible, know what to do if you believe someone has not completed an efficient check.
Salary Expectation
In January 2025, the average salary for a Forklift Operator is £20,000-£25,000. However, this doesn’t consider the additional roles you could have. For instance, you could also be working in other departments, such as packaging and scanning goods. You may also be managing the warehouse itself, becoming a warehouse operative. Current salary for this in January 2025 is between £37,000-£50,000.
Working hours will probably vary, as you could be expected to work in shift patterns, weekends and potentially bank holidays.
Career Progression
Once again, operating a Forklift Truck has transferrable skills. A great example of this is if you are working across other locations, and need a Forklift to operate at these other warehouses, then you could have a certification to operate a lorry mounted Forklift. This would mean that, if you had an HGV licence (Category C or C+E) you could take the Lorry mounted forklift with you to these locations, meaning you can use your own machinery.
Additions to this is also becoming an inhouse Forklift instructor. This means that among your current job role, you can also be the individual who train others on Forklift operating. The business you are employed with will potentially pay for your training and certification, as being able to train operators in-house will save money. An inhouse Forklift instructor can see a salary range of £21,000-£36,000. This, once again, will depend on experience.
