Finding the right job can be tough. High-paying jobs for forklift operators are out there in 2024. This article will guide you to where these jobs are and which companies pay the most.
Keep reading to boost your career!
Key Takeaways
- In 2024, Skidder Operators and Stacker Operators are among the highest-paid forklift jobs, earning up to $57,500 and $45,000 a year, respectively.
- Getting certified as a Forklift Operator can increase your salary potential with Certified Operators earning between $34,000 and $42,000 annually.
- Wisconsin is the top state for forklift drivers in 2024 offering median salaries of $36,688 while companies like DeWitt LLP Law Firm and BD rank among the highest paying employers.
High Paying Forklift Jobs in 2024
In 2024, forklift jobs like Skidder Operator and Warehouse Operator are among the highest paying in the industry. Certified Forklift Operator and General Labor Forklift Operator roles also offer competitive salaries.
Skidder Operator
Skidder operators have a key role in safely removing trees from forests. They earn between $52,500 and $57,500 a year for their work. These professionals use skidder accessories to move trees where they need to go.
This job is about strength, safety, and skill with heavy machinery.
The next position on our list of high-paying jobs for forklift operators in 2024 is the stacker operator job.
Stacker Operator
Stacker operators work in busy environments where they move and stack goods with precision. They earn between $37,500 and $45,000 a year. This job requires them to operate heavy equipment safely.
Stacker operators get paid very well for their skills.
Their salary does not change much with more experience. All stacker operators, no matter how long they have worked, make about the same amount of money. They play a key role in keeping warehouses organized and efficient.
Certified Forklift Operator
Certified forklift operators earn between $34,000 and $42,000 a year. They play a crucial role in supply chain management by ensuring goods are moved safely and efficiently. Getting a forklift certification can boost your chances of landing high-paying jobs.
Companies value certified operators because they minimize the risk of workplace accidents, proving that investing in certification pays off.
Next on the list is the lift operator position, which also offers competitive salaries and opportunities for growth within various industries.
Lift Operator
After talking about certified forklift operators, we shift our focus to another high-paying role: the lift operator. This job is crucial in keeping warehouses and construction sites running smoothly.
Lift operators handle different types of lifting equipment, not just forklifts. They play a key role in moving goods safely and efficiently.
Lift operators need proper training and certifications such as OSHA Forklift Certification. These qualifications help them land jobs at top companies like DHL Supply Chain. Working as a lift operator can lead to great pay, especially when you’re skilled and certified.
Warehouse Operator
A warehouse operator’s salary ranges from $33,500 to $40,500 per year. They are responsible for processing orders, managing inventory, and operating heavy equipment like forklifts.
Most jobs require a high school degree or GED certificate, prior warehouse experience, mechanical skills, a clean driving record, and in some cases, a special operator’s license.
General Labor Forklift Operator
The general labor forklift operator earns a salary range of $33,000 to $40,500 per year. With the highest-paying states being Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota. The top companies for forklift operators in 2024 include DHL Supply Chain and Walmart.
Zippia offers helpful tools such as Chrome extensions and customizable resume templates tailored towards forklift drivers.
Forklift Operator
Forklift operators handle material handling equipment to transport goods in warehouses and distribution centers. Certification and experience are vital for the job, which requires precision and attention to safety protocols.
Demand is high across the United States, with Wisconsin offering the highest median salary for forklift drivers at $36,688. The top companies hiring include DHL Supply Chain, Walmart, DeWitt LLP Law Firm, BD, Exel Inc., and ManpowerGroup.
Zippia provides tools like a Chrome extension for job applications and customizable resume templates tailored towards forklift operator positions.
Clamp Truck Driver
A Clamp Truck Driver earns a yearly salary between $33,500 and $40,000. Their main duty is handling heavy objects within a warehouse using specialized clamp trucks. These drivers play a crucial role in the logistics network of various companies, ensuring efficient movement and safe positioning of goods.
With the demand for skilled forklift operators on the rise, acquiring an online forklift certification can unlock opportunities to secure these high-paying jobs.
Top 10 States for Forklift Operators in 2024
Forklift operators can find lucrative opportunities in various states, such as Wisconsin and Minnesota. These states offer promising prospects for career growth in the forklift operation sector.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin tops the list as the best state for forklift drivers, offering a median salary of $36,688. Fairbanks is the city in Wisconsin that provides the highest pay for forklift drivers.
This makes Wisconsin an ideal location for those seeking high-paying opportunities within this field.
The Forklift Academy and Walmart are known to be significant players in providing employment opportunities for forklift operators in Wisconsin. With its diverse economy and growing job market, Wisconsin offers favorable conditions for seeking substantial career growth and stability within this industry.
Minnesota
Minnesota ranks as the second best state for forklift drivers in 2024, with a median salary and job count provided. It is among the top 10 best states for forklift drivers, with details about the average annual salary and location quotient.
Minnesota is one of the highest paying states for forklift operator jobs, offering competitive salaries and numerous job opportunities within this field.
North Dakota
North Dakota ranks third for forklift drivers in 2024, boasting 73 jobs with an average annual salary of $42,539. The state offers a solid job market for forklift operators, with many companies hiring across the region.
North Dakota stands among the top five states offering lucrative opportunities for forklift drivers this year.
Alaska
Alaska ranks fourth for forklift drivers in 2024, with an average annual salary of $39,870 and 350 available jobs. Fairbanks is one of the highest-paying cities for forklift operators.
The job market in Alaska is active, offering several opportunities as companies are hiring across various positions.
Massachusetts
In 2024, Massachusetts secures its place as the 5th best state for forklift drivers. The average annual salary here is competitive, and the job market offers favorable opportunities with many actively hiring companies.
The state’s industry concentration for forklift driver jobs exceeds the national average, underlining a strong demand in this sector. Alongside other high-paying states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota, Massachusetts makes it to the top 10 states list for forklift drivers.
Now let’s explore the highest paying companies that offer opportunities for forklift operators in 2024.
Ohio
Ohio ranks as the 6th best state for forklift operators in 2024, offering a median salary that places it within the top 10 highest paying states. The active job market in Ohio provides numerous opportunities for forklift operator positions across the state.
With its competitive salaries and a significant number of job openings, Ohio emerges as one of the top states with favorable prospects for professionals in this field.
South Dakota
South Dakota ranks 7th for highest paying forklift operator jobs in 2024. The average annual salary for forklift drivers in South Dakota is competitive, and the state offers numerous job opportunities.
Zippia provides recent job postings and salary information, positioning South Dakota as a favorable location for forklift operators.
Montana
Montana, one of the top 10 states for forklift drivers in 2024, offers appealing opportunities. The state boasts a rising demand for skilled operators and provides an average annual salary that is competitive.
Montana’s location quotient within the forklift driver industry indicates a noteworthy presence and steady employment prospects. Furthermore, Zippia extends support to Montana-based workers by offering customizable resume templates and expert advice tailored towards enhancing their careers.
In conclusion, let’s delve into the promising landscape of opportunities for forklift operators in Montana.
Oregon
Oregon ranks as one of the top 10 states for forklift drivers in 2024, with a median salary of $36,162. It has a total of 7,220 forklift driver jobs with an average annual salary of $38,110.
The lowest 10 percent earn about $30,400 and the highest earners take home around $48,000. Oregon’s location quotient for forklift drivers is at 0.7, indicating a relatively high concentration of these jobs compared to the national average.
This makes Oregon an attractive state for skilled forklift operators looking to secure well-paying employment opportunities in this sector based on job availability and competitive salaries.
Nevada
Nevada ranks among the top 10 best states for forklift operators in 2024. Zippia’s research indicates an active job market with numerous opportunities across the state. The average annual salary, lowest 10 percent earned, highest 10 percent earned, and location quotient data is provided to help understand the prospects for forklift drivers in Nevada.
The information shows that there are significant employment possibilities and a favorable environment for those seeking work as forklift operators in Nevada.
Highest Paying Companies for Forklift Operators in 2024
These companies offer the highest pay for forklift operators in 2024. To explore more, Keep on reading as we dive into these companies!
DeWitt LLP Law Firm
DeWitt LLP Law Firm ranks among the highest paying companies for forklift operators in 2024. The median salary for a forklift operator at DeWitt LLP Law Firm is $47,352, making it an attractive option.
This places DeWitt LLP at the top, with an average salary of $47,352 for forklift operators.
BD
BD, a medical technology company focused on improving drug delivery and healthcare solutions, is among the highest paying companies for forklift operators. The average salary at BD for forklift operators stands at $46,866, showcasing the company’s dedication to providing competitive compensation.
Additionally, BD offers opportunities to work in a dynamic and innovative environment with a focus on employee satisfaction and quality healthcare solutions. This positions BD as an employer of choice within the realm of high-paying companies for forklift operators in 2024.
Nabors Industries
Nabors Industries, an American global oil and gas drilling contractor, offers forklift operators an average salary of $45,758 in 2024. It stands as one of the highest paying companies for forklift operators in the US this year.
Ventura Foods
Ventura Foods, a top producer of custom dressings and sauces, offers an average forklift operator salary of $44,670. It stands among the highest paying companies for forklift operators in the US in 2024.
The information is updated as of October 6, 2023.
The average annual salary at Ventura Foods is $44,670 which positions it among the highest-paying companies for forklift operators in 2024.
Kemps
Kemps, an American dairy company, offers an average forklift operator salary of $43,764. This places Kemps among the top paying companies for forklift operators in 2024. The information about Kemps is up to date as of October 6, 2023.
Schnitzer Steel
Schnitzer Steel leads the global market in recycled steel collection and sales. The average salary for forklift operators at Schnitzer Steel ranges from $43,370 to $43,527 annually, making it one of the top-paying companies for this role in the US in 2024.
With a focus on recycling, Schnitzer Steel offers lucrative opportunities for individuals seeking high-paying forklift operator jobs.
Teleflex
Teleflex, a company dedicated to medical technology, offers attractive salaries for forklift operators. The average salary at Teleflex ranges from $43,370 to $43,527 yearly. Zippia provides tailored resume templates for those interested in positions at Teleflex.
These facts highlight the competitive pay scale and employee dedication associated with Teleflex.
Dairy Farmers of America
Dairy Farmers of America stands out as one of the best-paying companies for forklift operators in 2024, offering an average annual salary ranging from $43,370 to $43,527. The organization is closely linked with the dairy industry and provides lucrative opportunities for skilled forklift operators.
Dairy Farmers of America is renowned for its commitment to providing high-quality jobs within the dairy sector and has positioned itself as a favorable employer for forklift operators seeking stability and competitive compensation.
Seneca Foods
Seneca Foods is a top-paying employer for forklift operators in the US, offering an annual salary ranging from $43,370 to $43,527. The company focuses on packaging and processing various fruits and vegetables while providing equal employment opportunities.
Seneca Foods supports economic growth through its warehousing and low carbon practices. At Seneca Foods, employees experience a supportive work environment and diverse opportunities within the realm of logistics services.
Darigold
Darigold, a prominent dairy product manufacturer, stands out as one of the highest paying companies for forklift operators in the US in 2024. The average annual salary for forklift operators at Darigold ranges from $43,370 to $43,527.
Known for its commitment to employee welfare and dedication, Darigold offers competitive compensation to its workforce.
With a focus on simplicity and clarity, Darigold has carved a niche as a leading producer of dairy goods while ensuring fair remuneration for its employees.
Conclusion
Forklift operator jobs in 2024 offer high pay in industries like logging, warehousing, and cargo handling. Experience and certification are crucial for these roles. The job market is active across the United States, with Wisconsin being the top state for forklift drivers.
Zippia provides tools to track job applications and customizable resume templates. Top companies hiring forklift operators include DHL Supply Chain, Walmart, DeWitt LLP Law Firm, and BD.
