We surveyed 2,755 forklift operators to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical forklift operator. Here are the results.
Can I learn to become a forklift operator?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as a forklift operator typically depends predominantly on qualities you’re born with, with a small aspect of skills you can learn.
Is it easy to get a job as a forklift operator?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically not very difficult to find a job as a forklift operator. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for forklift operators.
Do forklift operators work full-time or part-time?
85% of forklift operators work in full-time roles while 15% work part-time.
Is being a forklift operator stressful?
Low
High
Forklift operators tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.
Is being organized important as a forklift operator?
Low
High
Organization is not considered a particularly important part of being a forklift operator.
How competitive is the workplace for forklift operators?
Low
High
Competition at work is not common for forklift operators.
Does being a forklift operator require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Time pressure tends not to be a major contributor of stress for forklift operators.
Are forklift operators allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Forklift operators rarely get a chance to express themselves creatively.
Do forklift operators have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
Forklift operators tend to have a set and inflexible work schedule that they are unable to deviate from too much.
Is being a forklift operator physically demanding?
Low
High
Being a forklift operator may occasionally require demanding physical activity, which may make it not a suitable career choice for everyone.
Are forklift operators exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
Forklift operators tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.
Does being a forklift operator require attention to detail?
Low
High
Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as a forklift operator.
Does being a good forklift operator require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
The ability to be compassionate and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a forklift operator.