Forklift Operator Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Apr 07, 2025
Position
City
Salary

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

The average salary for a Forklift Operator is $41,662 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, Forklift Operators earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for this role is around $41,662. This figure reflects a steady income that can support a comfortable lifestyle in the city.


Salaries for Forklift Operators vary, with many positions paying between $33,500 and $54,940 per year. Operators at the lower end of the scale typically earn about $33,500. On the higher end, those with more experience or those in specialized roles can earn salaries close to $54,940.


This range shows that there are opportunities for growth in this field. By gaining more experience and skills, operators can increase their earning potential. With a good understanding of the job market in San Diego, Forklift Operators can expect a rewarding career with room for advancement.

View Forklift Operator Jobs in San Diego, CA

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

Lakeside, CA offers the highest average salary for forklift operators near San Diego, at $40,857. National City closely follows with an average pay of $39,753, while El Cajon, Chula Vista, and Poway also provide competitive salaries in the range of $39,171 to $39,336. These cities present excellent opportunities for those seeking well-paid positions in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forklift Operator jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Lakeside, CA with the highest at $40,857 and Poway, CA with the lowest at $39,171.
  1. Lakeside, CA
    Average Salary: $40,857
    Working in Lakeside as a forklift operator offers opportunities in a lively warehouse environment. Many local businesses, including agricultural suppliers, rely on skilled operators to transport materials quickly and safely.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Lakeside, CA


  2. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $39,753
    National City features numerous distribution centers and manufacturing plants where forklift roles are essential. Operators play a key role in ensuring products move efficiently, supporting businesses like Walmart and various local suppliers.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in National City, CA


  3. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $39,336
    In El Cajon, forklift operators find positions in a variety of industries such as retail and logistics. Local warehouses appreciate the expertise of operators in managing inventory and maintaining smooth operations.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in El Cajon, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $39,207
    Chula Vista is home to bustling logistics and manufacturing sectors. Forklift operators here help keep operations running smoothly, facilitating the flow of goods for major companies and local businesses alike.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $39,171
    Poway offers a growing job market for forklift operators, with many companies in construction and manufacturing. Operators contribute significantly to the safe and efficient movement of goods and materials.
    Find Forklift Operator jobs in Poway, CA

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

If you're seeking a well-paying Forklift Operator position in San Diego, consider applying to companies like ABF Freight and General Dynamics NASSCO, which offer average salaries of $54,062 and $52,700, respectively. Other strong options include XPO and SOUTHWEST MOBILE STORAGE INC., with average earnings around $50,541 and $47,000. These organizations show a commitment to valuing their employees through competitive compensation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forklift Operator jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting ABF Freight with the highest at $54,062 and DSSI, Inc. with the lowest at $33,500.
  1. ABF Freight
    Average Salary: $54,062
    ABF Freight offers Forklift Operator positions that come with competitive wages and solid benefits. Based in San Diego, employees support the company’s shipping operations, ensuring safe and efficient cargo handling.


  2. General Dynamics NASSCO
    Average Salary: $52,700
    General Dynamics NASSCO provides Forklift Operators with exciting opportunities in the shipbuilding industry. Located in San Diego, team members play a crucial role in handling materials essential for ship construction.


  3. XPO
    Average Salary: $50,541
    XPO offers great career paths for Forklift Operators across its San Diego location. Employees manage logistics and freight, ensuring timely and safe movement of goods.


  4. SOUTHWEST MOBILE STORAGE INC.
    Average Salary: $47,000
    At SOUTHWEST MOBILE STORAGE INC., Forklift Operators help manage storage solutions in San Diego. The role involves moving and organizing containers efficiently to ensure smooth operations.


  5. R+L Carriers
    Average Salary: $45,605
    R+L Carriers provides Forklift Operators positions in San Diego where they contribute to freight handling and logistics. The company prides itself on safety and efficiency, making it a good place to work.


  6. Oak Harbor Freight Lines
    Average Salary: $43,190
    Oak Harbor Freight Lines employs Forklift Operators in San Diego, focusing on the handling of freight and transportation logistics. Workers enjoy a supportive environment and opportunities for advancement.


  7. Johnson Storage & Moving
    Average Salary: $39,000
    Johnson Storage & Moving hires Forklift Operators for their San Diego locations. They ensure the safe transfer of goods during moving and storage operations, contributing to customer satisfaction.


  8. Eastridge Workforce Solutions
    Average Salary: $38,000
    Eastridge Workforce Solutions connects Forklift Operators with various job opportunities in San Diego. They provide flexible staffing options and a range of industries to work within.


  9. Randstad
    Average Salary: $36,593
    Randstad offers Forklift Operator roles in San Diego, focusing on temporary and full-time positions. They work with diverse companies to fill staffing needs in logistics and warehousing.


  10. DSSI, Inc.
    Average Salary: $33,500
    DSSI, Inc. provides Forklift Operators in San Diego with the chance to contribute to supply chain management. The company values efficiency and safety in its operations.

There are 6,396 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
6,396 Job Openings
Understanding the Forklift Operator Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire