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Forklift Driver Job Description

What does a Forklift Driver do?

A forklift driver, also known as a forklift operator, is responsible for operating a forklift to lift, move, and stack materials in warehouses, factories, shipping yards, or other industrial settings. They must have a clear understanding of the weight capacity and limitations of the forklift and be able to manoeuvre it in tight spaces while maintaining safety standards. Forklift drivers typically load and unload goods from containers or vehicles and may be required to accurately track and record inventory. Additionally, they must regularly inspect and maintain the forklift to ensure it runs efficiently and safely.

Our Forklift Driver job description includes the Forklift Driver responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

Forklift Driver Example


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If you need an example job description for a Forklift Driver download the one below, alternatively we have many other Manufacturing job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.

What does a Forklift Driver do?

A Forklift Driver is responsible for operating a forklift to move, load and unload materials in a warehouse or other industrial setting. This role requires a keen eye for detail and accuracy to ensure materials are loaded and unloaded safely and efficiently. The Forklift Driver must be physically fit and able to lift heavy loads and maintain a clean, safe and organized work environment. They must also be able to follow instructions and be familiar with the company's safety policies and procedures. This position requires the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Forklift Driver Role Purpose

The purpose of a Forklift Driver is to operate a forklift truck or other powered lifting equipment to move, stack, load and unload materials in a warehouse or other industrial environment in a safe and efficient manner. This includes the safe and efficient movement of goods, materials, pallets and containers both in and out of the warehouse, as well as loading and unloading of delivery vehicles in a timely manner.

Forklift Driver Role

Forklift Driver is a job that involves operating a forklift to move, lift, and transport materials within a warehouse or other facility. The job includes securely stacking and unstacking goods, loading and unloading lorries, and following safety regulations.

Forklift Driver Duties

  • Operate a forklift to move materials around a warehouse or construction site
  • Load and unload goods from lorries
  • Ensure all health and safety regulations are adhered to
  • Maintain and clean forklift
  • Carry out routine safety checks

Forklift Driver Requirements

  • A valid Forklift licence
  • Ability to accurately follow instructions
  • Good communication skills

Forklift Driver Skills

  • Operate a forklift truck
  • Load and unload goods
  • Check loads are secure
  • Keep warehouse organised and tidy

Forklift Driver Personal Traits

  • Strong organisational skills
  • Ability to lift heavy items
  • Good communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

How to write a Forklift Driver Job Advert

Use our job advert template to write a job advert for posting on job sites and job boards. Our job advertising templates are carefully created to help you reach your audience and beat the competition to the best talent.

A job description informs the reader about a job, whereas a job advert’s main objective is to sell the job opportunity to attract as many suitable applicants possible. A job advert maybe the first touch-point a candidate has with your company so it is important to create a great impression.

Job Advertisements should enticing, so considering using short, exciting language which get the reader’s attention.

How to write a Forklift Driver Job Description

To write a job description, we recommend starting with a job description template from our job description library, which contains examples for 800+ positions and professions. Our job description examples include a job summary with duties and responsibilities and skills and requirements, which can be personalised for your job vacancy.

Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise a Forklift Driver Job Specification

The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.

Job Description Tips - Help on formatting a Forklift Driver Job Specification

When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:

Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.

Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.

Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.

The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.

Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth. 

Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources. 

Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.

Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.

Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.

How to Hire a Forklift Driver

Once you have selected your Job Description download it or convert it to a Job Advert. From here you can post/advertise your job across our network of job boards. If you wish to use the job description for a CV Template click through for advice and Convert to a CV

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