Contrary to popular belief that training and certification for forklift jobs aren’t required, it could actually help you land your next high-paying forklift gig! How? Let’s look at a hypothetical scenario:

A company gets ten applications for two forklift job position openings. Eight of the applicants do not have any type of forklift certification and only possess a simple skill set. The other two applicants have received forklift certification training and are able to provide the company with proof of training in the form of an official certificate from a reputable provider.

Who does the company award the forklift jobs to? The applicants who possess the certification, of course!

But why is this?

Hiring applicants who have received forklift training would save the company time and resources devoted to training the workers. Additionally, the new employees could start work almost immediately. But if they were to choose amongst the other eight who have received no forklift training whatsoever, then they would have to put in time and effort to provide the new employees with training. This applies even if the applicants are experienced operators!

The bottom line is this. Companies filling forklift job positions prefer applicants who have received forklift certification training. Therefore, receiving this type of training dramatically increases your chances of landing forklift jobs.

Benefits of Working Forklift Jobs

There are several benefits to maintaining a career as a qualified forklift operator. Some of these benefits include the following.

There are Many Forklift Jobs Available

The smallest warehouses to the largest logistics hubs need qualified forklift operators. These forklift jobs are in very high demand, though there is a lot of competition. Because of this, forklift certification training and some related experience will significantly increase your chances of being a contender for these jobs. In fact, with the proper qualifications, you might even have the chance to choose the exact position that you want.

An Exciting Work Environment

While many people that that being a forklift operator is a boring job since it may require you to sit for long periods, in most cases, this is simply not true. Most forklift jobs take place in fast-paced and exciting environments that require operators to remain attentive and focused at all times.

Several forklift job-related tasks require sharp mental acuity and continuous calculations relating to load handling and rigging. This is one of the reasons that many forklift jobs are high-paying! That leads us to our next benefit.

Competitive Wages

The wages for qualified forklift operators are extremely competitive and can be upwards of $25 – $30 an hour. When compared to minimum wage and other jobs that require minimal education and credentials, this is quite high.

Qualified forklift operators also have the opportunity, in many cases, to receive pay increases as they gain more experience. It’s entirely possible to move up to a supervisory or managerial position if you work hard, show initiative, and play your cards right as a competent and reliable forklift operator.

Requires Minimal Education and Credentials

Many employers seeking qualified forklift operators will not require extensive education and credentials. In most cases, a high school diploma, a high level of competence, a good work ethic, and reputable forklift certification are among the most important factors that employers consider when hiring new operators.

Common Requirements of Forklift Jobs

As we’ve previously mentioned, forklift jobs do not demand extensive education and credentials. In most cases, the requirements to obtain a forklift job are as follows:  

• A high school or equivalent diploma
• Good command over math, reading, and language skills; some jobs may also require some computer experience
• A high degree of attentiveness so as to prevent incidents
• Should be able to follow instructions
• Forklift certification training as per OSHA standards
• You may also be required to produce a clean driving record; this usually depends on the employer

Forklift Certification Training

Receiving online forklift certification training before applying for forklift operator jobs comes with several benefits. Some of these benefits include:

1. You would have a competitive advantage over others competing for the same forklift operator position. As we’ve previously mentioned, companies tend to look for people on whom they have to expend the least amount of time and resources. In such a scenario, forklift certification training would be your saving grace!
2. OSHA requires forklift operators to abide by strict health and safety guidelines laid out by them. This is due to the hazardous nature of the work, and employers are required to ensure their operators are adhering to these requirements. Forklift certification training helps to ensure that both you and your employer are meeting your obligations.
3. If you don’t have prior work experience as well as no forklift certification training, then employers would be quick to reject your application. After all, they would be required to spend time and resources on you. While they do this often, the preference is to minimize this as much as possible.

Getting high-quality forklift certification training does more than just land you a higher-paying forklift job; It arms you with the knowledge and tools to help keep you and your coworkers safe.