Forklift Driver Salaries

Forklift drivers earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience and skill level. The average yearly salary for a forklift driver is around $40,705. Entry-level positions may start at about $28,550. As drivers gain experience, their earnings increase significantly. For instance, those with more experience can earn as much as $66,000 a year.

The salary distribution shows that many drivers earn between $35,000 and $59,000 annually. Around 26.8% of forklift drivers fit into the $35,359 range, while 18.9% earn around $38,764. About 5.7% of drivers earn less than $29,000, while another 5.9% earn between $45,000 and $49,000.

1. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $58,788
   Working as a forklift operator in Los Angeles offers many opportunities due to the city's bustling shipping and warehousing sectors. Major companies like Amazon and Walmart have large distribution centers here, providing steady work and good pay.
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2. Salinas, CA
   Average Salary: $55,970
   In Salinas, forklift operators play a vital role in the agriculture and food processing industries. With many farms and packing facilities, workers can find reliable work while contributing to the local economy.
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3. Bakersfield, CA
   Average Salary: $53,329
   Bakersfield boasts a strong logistics and manufacturing presence, making it a great place for forklift drivers. Local companies in oil and agriculture depend on skilled operators to keep their operations running efficiently.
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4. Denver, CO
   Average Salary: $51,993
   Denver's growing economy includes a healthy logistics sector, making it an ideal location for forklift operators. With companies like Home Depot and various distribution centers, job prospects remain strong.
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5. Fort Myers, FL
   Average Salary: $51,192
   In Fort Myers, forklift drivers support a range of industries, from retail to construction. The region's ongoing growth in commercial properties enhances job opportunities for skilled operators.
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6. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $51,019
   Seattle’s vibrant shipping and tech industry creates a high demand for forklift operators. Companies like Boeing and Amazon rely on experienced drivers to handle inventory and materials effectively.
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7. Salt Lake City, UT
   Average Salary: $50,014
   Salt Lake City offers numerous opportunities for forklift operators, thanks to its central location and transport links. With many warehouses and retail distribution centers like Walmart, there is steady demand for skilled labor.
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8. Sacramento, CA
   Average Salary: $49,823
   Sacramento's diverse economy includes logistics and warehouse operations, providing a solid market for forklift operators. Major companies in retail and agriculture help create a stable job outlook.
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9. Odessa, TX
   Average Salary: $49,236
   In Odessa, forklift operators find work in the oil and construction industries. The area's economic growth boosts job availability, making it an attractive place for skilled operators.
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10. Amarillo, TX
    Average Salary: $49,072
    Amarillo features a strong agricultural sector, where forklift drivers play a critical role. Opportunities exist in grain and food processing companies, ensuring steady employment in the region.
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1. Amerit Fleet Solutions
   Average Salary: $92,219
   Amerit Fleet Solutions offers competitive salaries for Forklift Drivers, with average pay reaching $92,219. This company operates in various locations across the United States, focusing on fleet management and maintenance.
   




2. CareerPaths NW
   Average Salary: $85,000
   At CareerPaths NW, Forklift Drivers can expect to earn an average salary of $85,000. With operations primarily in the Northwest region, the company emphasizes employee development and career growth.
   




3. Clarke Power Services
   Average Salary: $70,000
   Forklift Drivers at Clarke Power Services earn an average salary of $70,000. This company provides critical services for power equipment in different states, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction.
   




4. Pape' Machinery Inc
   Average Salary: $67,246
   Pape' Machinery Inc offers Forklift Drivers an average salary of $67,246. The company operates in several locations, serving the construction and agricultural machinery sectors.
   




5. Dayton Freight Lines, Inc.
   Average Salary: $61,598
   At Dayton Freight Lines, Inc., Forklift Drivers can earn an average salary of $61,598. This company, which operates across the Midwest, is known for its strong commitment to employee safety and service excellence.
   




6. Reyes Holdings
   Average Salary: $60,210
   Reyes Holdings provides Forklift Drivers with an average salary of $60,210. Operating primarily in the food and beverage supply chain, the company values teamwork and efficiency.
   




7. Rancho Foods, Inc.
   Average Salary: $59,619
   Forklift Drivers at Rancho Foods, Inc. earn an average salary of $59,619. This company specializes in food distribution and operates in various locations across the Southwest.
   




8. Fairchild Equipment, Inc.
   Average Salary: $59,503
   Fairchild Equipment, Inc. offers an average salary of $59,503 for Forklift Drivers. The company focuses on material handling solutions and operates in multiple regions across the Midwest.
   




9. Concentric LLC
   Average Salary: $58,994
   At Concentric LLC, Forklift Drivers can expect an average salary of $58,994. The company provides innovative engineering solutions and has operations in various industrial sectors.
   




10. Lift Solutions, INC
    Average Salary: $58,499
    Forklift Drivers at Lift Solutions, INC earn an average of $58,499. The company specializes in material handling and supports operations in several states, focusing on system efficiency.
    

As a forklift driver, you can increase your earnings by focusing on a few key factors. By investing your time and effort into these areas, you can open doors to higher pay and better job opportunities.

• Gain Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA Forklift Operator Training. This makes you more qualified and appealing to employers.
• Build Experience: Work in various environments like warehouses, construction sites, or manufacturing plants. More experience often leads to better jobs with higher pay.
• Specialize: Consider specializing in handling specific types of forklifts or materials. This expertise can boost your value to employers.
• Network: Connect with industry professionals through events and social media platforms. Networking can lead to job openings that offer better salaries.
• Stay Updated: Keep up with industry trends, safety regulations, and new technologies. Being informed can make you a more competitive candidate.