Being a forklift driver requires using a forklift to move materials in warehouses, storage yards, factories, and construction sites. This job can be tough, since you'll be operating a forklift for eight hours straight, but it can be ideal if you like to use machinery and do shift work. To fill this position, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma. You will also need safety certification and training to operate a forklift. Once you have the required skills and training, you can look for a job as a certified forklift driver in the United States.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Have the necessary education and experience
Step 1. Meet the 18-year-old requirement
This way, employers will be able to hire you in accordance with labor laws in most countries. As proof of age, you will need to show your driver's license or government-issued ID.
Step 2. Have your high school diploma
Employers generally prefer to hire employees who have at least completed high school education. However, it is not a requirement, but a preference.
Employers generally also accept a general education diploma (GDA)
Step 3. Gain experience working in a warehouse or construction site
Operating a forklift requires working in these types of places. This work experience will help you get used to the extreme outdoor conditions, as well as the fumes and loud noises characteristic of a warehouse or construction site.
Take shifts at a warehouse in the area as a worker or land a part-time starting position at a construction site
Part 2 of 3: Get Your Certification
Step 1. Find an OSHA approved training program
Make sure you enroll in a program taught by a qualified training instructor. This person must have proof that they are OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certified to deliver the program and confirm that you receive OSHA approval when you complete the course.
- Go to the OSHA website for a list of suggested training websites and services you can use.
- Please note that you will not be able to get your certification online. You will have to complete the formal training online and then do a hands-on training in person with the instructor. You will also need to take an in-person assessment to get your certification.
Step 2. Complete the formal online instruction
This part of the training can be done online in modules on an OSHA certified training web page. Depending on your needs, you can be trained to operate warehouse forklifts, rough terrain forklifts, pallet trucks, and order pickers.
- You will have to complete a short exam when you finish with the formal instruction. You will be able to consult and correct any question that you answer incorrectly during the exam.
- Formal online training can cost between $ 60 and $ 80.
Step 3. Do a hands-on training in the classroom
During the practical training part, the instructor will provide you with the practical training. You will also be able to see live demonstrations with the forklift and do practice exercises with the machinery under the supervision of the trainer. This step is done in person.
Don't buy training programs that claim you can complete this part online. It is very likely that they are not legitimate
Step 4. Complete the in-person assessment to obtain your certificate
The trainer will have you operate the forklift under his supervision and will evaluate your performance. Once you pass the in-person assessment, you will be certified by OSHA.
- Some training programs provide a certificate once you pass to show employers.
- Your name will be entered into training records so employers can search and confirm that you are a certified worker.
Step 5. Have your OSHA training evaluated every three years
As part of OSHA training, your employer will ask you to undergo a new evaluation every three years to confirm that your training is up to date.
Employers will generally pay you for evaluation of your training every three years and for any retraining you have to complete
Part 3 of 3: Find a position
Step 1. Apply online to be a forklift driver
Look for available openings for certified forklift drivers on websites and job boards. Call to see if there are openings available at a specific construction site or warehouse.
Career sites like Indeed.com, Snagajob.com, and Monster.com are all good options
Step 2. Progress into a warehouse or construction site
If you already work in a warehouse or construction site, find out if there are openings available for forklift drivers. Talk to your supervisor or foreman about the possibility of getting the position.
Forklift drivers typically make their way from work as a partner or material moving positions
Step 3. Contact your local employment center
Come by in person and inquire about available vacancies as a forklift driver in the area. Many construction sites and warehouses look for drivers through local employment centers.
Bring a copy of your resume and proof of your OSHA certification with you
Step 4. Let employers know that you are OSHA certified
Employers will be more willing to hire you if they know you have a certification and are ready to work. Be sure to mention on your resume that you have OSHA certification as a credential.
Some employers may offer to fix OSHA certification as long as you take the online part of the training
Step 5. Determine your pay and hours of work
Forklift drivers pay about $ 15 to $ 16 per hour. Over time, you may be able to progress and earn $ 20 per hour. Generally, you will work eight hour shifts. Hours can vary, since forklift drivers often work at night or early in the morning to complete a job.
- If you work in a warehouse that operates 24 hours, you may have to work longer hours or do multiple shifts in a row.
- Your employer must specify your pay and hours of work before you start working as a forklift driver.