Forklift operators move goods and supplies from one place to another. On a typical work day, they might also load and unload trucks, supply different production areas with work materials and stock warehouses with equipment and materials for future jobs.
Skillset: Forklift operators must be able to successfully judge distances between the forklift and the materials that they are moving. They must also have excellent eye-hand-foot coordination to effectively drive the forklift around the work site. Some forklift operators must also be able to maintain and inspect the forklifts for damages, perform data entry to check materials into warehouses or designated work areas, and tag and label the materials and equipment that they move.
Education: Many employers do not require that forklift operators undergo any formal education requirements to become gainfully employed. These employers provide on-the-job training. That being said, forklift operator certification programs do exist, and are utilized by people serious about obtaining long-term forklift operator careers.
Career Path: Forklifts are open vehicles that expose forklift operators to year-round weather conditions. Therefore, pursue a career as a forklift operator after considering all of the inclement weather conditions that accompany the profession.
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