Forklift Operator Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Jan 08, 2025
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How much does a Forklift Operator make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Forklift Operator is $58,238 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, forklift operators can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for this role is approximately $58,238. Salaries can vary based on experience and specific job duties.


At the lower end of the pay scale, entry-level positions start around $34,000. As operators gain more experience and skills, they can earn higher salaries. For those with several years under their belt, salaries can reach about $74,364. Highly skilled or specialized forklift operators may earn $101,273 or more annually.


Many factors help determine a forklift operator’s pay in San Diego. Experience, certifications, and the type of industry can all lead to different salary levels. Overall, this occupation offers opportunities for growth and advancement, making it a solid career choice in the region.

View Forklift Operator Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Forklift Operator near San Diego, CA?

Forklift operators can find some of the highest pay in Lakeside, CA, with an average salary of $58,277. El Cajon and Santee follow closely, offering average salaries of $56,623 and $53,418, respectively. These cities present great opportunities for job seekers looking to earn competitive wages in the forklift operation field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forklift Operator jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Lakeside, CA with the highest at $58,277 and Poway, CA with the lowest at $39,171.
  1. Lakeside, CA
    Average Salary: $58,277
    Working as a forklift operator in Lakeside offers a variety of opportunities in local warehouses and distribution centers. The area has a growing number of businesses that rely on skilled workers to manage inventory and support logistics.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Lakeside, CA


  2. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $56,623
    El Cajon hosts several manufacturing and shipping companies, creating a stable demand for forklift operators. With a focus on efficiency, operators play a key role in helping companies like East County's logistics firms keep their operations running smoothly.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in El Cajon, CA


  3. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $53,418
    In Santee, forklift operators enjoy the chance to work in diverse sectors, including retail and storage. The city’s business environment supports growth, making it an ideal place for those seeking steady work in warehousing.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Santee, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $49,912
    Chula Vista offers a bustling industrial scene, with various companies needing skilled forklift operators. Positions here provide a chance to be part of an expanding logistic and warehouse network in Southern California.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $43,504
    As a vibrant hub, National City continually seeks trained forklift operators to support its numerous warehouses and shipping facilities. The local economy thrives on logistics, ensuring steady job prospects in this line of work.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in National City, CA


  6. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $39,171
    Poway’s strong economy features many manufacturing and distribution businesses, making it a good place for forklift operators. Workers contribute to essential operations, helping maintain the flow of goods while benefiting from competitive pay.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Poway, CA

What are the best paying companies for Forklift Operator in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, top-paying companies for Forklift Operators include UC San Diego, where the average salary reaches $94,983, and JLL, offering around $88,190. Other notable employers like Cushman & Wakefield and ABF Freight also provide competitive wages, averaging $81,422 and $54,062, respectively. Job seekers will find various opportunities with these companies, making them appealing options for career advancement in the industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forklift Operator jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting UC San Diego with the highest at $94,983 and Oak Harbor Freight Lines with the lowest at $43,190.
  1. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $94,983
    UC San Diego offers a robust opportunity for Forklift Operators. Workers at their shipping and receiving departments handle various tasks related to logistics and supply chain management. This job supports smooth operations at the university's multiple facilities.


  2. JLL
    Average Salary: $88,190
    JLL provides Forklift Operator positions in their property management and logistics divisions. Employees play a key role in maintaining warehouse efficiency at multiple commercial locations throughout San Diego.


  3. Cushman & Wakefield
    Average Salary: $81,422
    Cushman & Wakefield employs Forklift Operators to ensure timely logistics solutions. They operate various facilities in San Diego, where workers contribute to inventory management and warehouse operations.


  4. Cass Arrieta
    Average Salary: $63,000
    Cass Arrieta hires Forklift Operators to support their logistics and distribution services. Workers play an important role in their operations at various storage locations in the San Diego area.


  5. ABF Freight
    Average Salary: $54,062
    ABF Freight seeks dedicated Forklift Operators for their freight and logistics teams. The company operates out of several shipping hubs in San Diego, providing employees with a dynamic and fast-paced work environment.


  6. General Dynamics NASSCO
    Average Salary: $51,550
    General Dynamics NASSCO offers Forklift Operator roles within their shipbuilding and repair processes. Employees in San Diego engage in vital tasks that support large-scale maritime operations.


  7. XPO
    Average Salary: $50,541
    XPO employs Forklift Operators to assist in freight transportation services. Their San Diego locations focus on logistics and customer service, ensuring efficient delivery processes.


  8. SOUTHWEST MOBILE STORAGE INC.
    Average Salary: $47,000
    SOUTHWEST MOBILE STORAGE INC. values Forklift Operators for managing inventory and storage solutions. They have operational facilities in the San Diego area that require skilled labor for logistical tasks.


  9. R+L Carriers
    Average Salary: $45,605
    R+L Carriers provides employment opportunities for Forklift Operators in their transportation and logistics departments. Workers in San Diego manage packages and help maintain warehouse efficiency.


  10. Oak Harbor Freight Lines
    Average Salary: $43,190
    Oak Harbor Freight Lines hires Forklift Operators as part of their shipping and handling teams. They operate throughout San Diego, where employees ensure the accurate processing of freight deliveries.

There are 5,124 Forklift Operator job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Forklift Operator in the US?

Learn what a Forklift Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Forklift Operator today.
Position
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Forklift Operator
5,124 Job Openings
Understanding the Forklift Operator Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire