If you are (or are planning to become) forklift certified, there are a variety of job opportunities available that can let you put your forklift skills to work. While all of the roles involve forklifts, they aren’t all exactly the same. As a result, it can be hard to figure out which forklift jobs align with your needs and preferences.
By understanding the differences between various forklift jobs, you can target the ones that feel like your best match. Here’s what you need to know about common forklift roles.
Forklift Operator
When a role comes with the “forklift operator” job title, it usually involves a substantial amount of forklift driving. Operating a forklift is a core part of the role, and your duties beyond using this piece of equipment may be fairly limited.
It is important to note that many forklift operators are responsible for handling companion duties. This can include tracking inventory, ensuring orders are correctly filled, assisting with packing, and some heavy lifting. However, if driving a forklift is one of your favorite tasks, looking for forklift operator positions could ensure you get to spend more of your time doing what you enjoy.
Forklift Mechanic
Forklift mechanics aren’t just responsible for operating forklifts, though it is usually part of the job. Instead, they also need to handle repair and maintenance duties, ensuring the equipment is running properly and that issues are identified and corrected.
Usually, forklift mechanics spend a decent amount of their time repairing and maintaining the equipment. Their driving duties may be limited to checking how a forklift is operating or if a repair is successful. However, they may also double as a forklift operator during times when all of the equipment is operational and doesn’t require routine maintenance on that particular day.
Beyond being forklift certified, many forklift mechanic positions require candidates to have additional credentials. Usually, this includes formal training or prior experience in forklift repair and maintenance, or on heavy equipment in general.
Warehouse Worker
Many warehouse worker roles also require forklift skills. Most employees working in these roles have to be flexible regarding their assigned duties, as they are responsible for more than just operating a forklift.
For example, inventory tracking, picking and packing, checking shipments for accuracy, and stocking shelves might be part of their assigned workload. Precisely what is needed can vary from day to day, so operating a forklift may only be necessary under specific circumstances.
Ultimately, there are a variety of positions that require forklift skills, giving certified operators a range of opportunities to explore as they work to further their career. If you’d like to find out more or are seeking new forklift jobs, the experienced team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our skilled recruiters today and see how our forklift career expertise can benefit you, or browse our open forklift jobs for yourself.
