Forklift Operator Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Dec 18, 2024
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Forklift Operator make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Forklift Operator is $57,680 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, Forklift Operators enjoy a competitive salary that reflects the important role they play in various industries. The average yearly salary for a Forklift Operator in this vibrant city is around $57,680.


Salaries can vary based on experience and specific job responsibilities. Entry-level positions typically start at around $34,000 annually. With more experience, operators can earn significantly higher salaries. For instance, those with a few years of experience may see salaries rise to approximately $47,455, while those in more advanced or specialized roles can earn salaries close to $81,091 or even higher.


This range shows a clear potential for growth in the field. Forklift Operators in San Diego benefit from a thriving job market, making it an excellent time to pursue a career in this area.

View Forklift Operator Jobs in San Diego, CA

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

Santee, CA offers the highest average salary for forklift operators near San Diego, with earnings around $58,042 per year. Lakeside and El Cajon follow close behind, with average salaries of $56,746 and $56,623, respectively. Job seekers in these areas can find competitive pay that reflects the demand for skilled forklift operators.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forklift Operator jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Santee, CA with the highest at $58,042 and Poway, CA with the lowest at $38,990.
  1. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $58,042
    Working in Santee offers opportunities at companies like Amazon and local warehouses. You can expect a dynamic environment where you contribute to the smooth flow of goods and help support local businesses.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Santee, CA


  2. Lakeside, CA
    Average Salary: $56,746
    In Lakeside, many industrial companies rely on skilled operators to keep operations running smoothly. The community appreciates hard work, making it a supportive place for those in this role.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Lakeside, CA


  3. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $56,623
    El Cajon features a variety of distribution centers and manufacturers. Operators can find great positions with competitive pay while ensuring safe practices in a bustling area.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in El Cajon, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $49,912
    Chula Vista provides diverse job opportunities in shipping and distribution. Companies like Target and Walmart offer solid positions, allowing you to be a key part of the supply chain.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $43,585
    National City is home to several warehouses and logistics companies. Operators play a vital role in maintaining efficiency and keeping up with growing demands in this thriving community.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in National City, CA


  6. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $38,990
    Poway features a mix of manufacturing and distribution businesses. Operators in this area benefit from a tight-knit community and the chance to work with leading local companies.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Poway, CA

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

In San Diego, CA, the best-paying companies for Forklift Operators include UC San Diego, offering an average salary of $94,983, and JLL, with an average of $88,190. Other notable employers are Cushman & Wakefield and Cass Arrieta, providing decent wages around $81,024 and $63,000, respectively. If you're looking for good pay in this field, targeting these companies can lead to promising opportunities.
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 R+L Carriers with the lowest at $45,605.
  1. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $94,983
    UC San Diego offers competitive salaries for Forklift Operators. The university values efficiency and safety, providing a supportive environment. Forklift Operators work in various locations on campus, ensuring smooth delivery and logistics.


  2. JLL
    Average Salary: $88,190
    JLL is a global leader in real estate services, known for its strong commitment to employee growth. Forklift Operators at JLL work in diverse settings, including warehouses and distribution centers, primarily in the San Diego area.


  3. Cushman & Wakefield
    Average Salary: $81,024
    Cushman & Wakefield provides great opportunities for Forklift Operators. They focus on high standards of service in real estate, with operations in San Diego that require skilled logistics support.


  4. Cass Arrieta
    Average Salary: $63,000
    At Cass Arrieta, Forklift Operators play a key role in construction logistics. The company focuses on delivering quality service throughout San Diego, offering a friendly working environment.


  5. Bilbro Construction
    Average Salary: $62,425
    Bilbro Construction employs Forklift Operators who ensure materials are efficiently managed on job sites. The company operates throughout San Diego and values skilled workers who contribute to project success.


  6. ABF Freight
    Average Salary: $54,062
    At ABF Freight, Forklift Operators are crucial to operations. They work in fast-paced environments to keep freight moving. The company serves the San Diego area, providing reliable freight transportation services.


  7. General Dynamics NASSCO
    Average Salary: $51,550
    Forklift Operators at General Dynamics NASSCO support the shipbuilding industry. Located in San Diego, the company values safety and teamwork, providing operators with a dynamic work environment.


  8. XPO
    Average Salary: $50,541
    XPO offers Forklift Operators varied tasks in the supply chain sector. With several sites in the San Diego area, XPO provides growth opportunities while maintaining a strong focus on efficiency.


  9. SOUTHWEST MOBILE STORAGE INC.
    Average Salary: $47,000
    At SOUTHWEST MOBILE STORAGE INC., Forklift Operators help manage portable storage solutions. Their operations in San Diego focus on customer satisfaction and effective logistics.


  10. R+L Carriers
    Average Salary: $45,605
    R+L Carriers hires Forklift Operators to streamline freight processing. The company operates a network in San Diego and emphasizes safety and efficiency in their logistics.

There are 6,106 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
Overview
Forklift Operator
6,106 Job Openings
Understanding the Forklift Operator Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire