We surveyed 2,133 forklift operators to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical forklift operator. Here are the results.

How much intelligence is required as a forklift operator?

Low

High

Working as a forklift operator typically requires higher levels of intelligence when compared with the average career. This means that forklift operators are required to actively learn new things related to their discipline and solve complex problems.

Can I learn to become a forklift operator?

Intrinsic Talent

Acquired Talent

A career as a forklift operator typically depends predominantly on qualities you’re born with, with a small aspect of skills you can learn.

Is it easy to get a job as a forklift operator?

Easy

Hard

It’s typically not very difficult to find a job as a forklift operator. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for forklift operators.

Info

Do forklift operators work full-time or part-time?

85% of forklift operators work in full-time roles while 15% work part-time.

Is being a forklift operator stressful?

Low

High

Forklift operators tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.

Is being organized important as a forklift operator?

Low

High

Organization is not considered a particuarly important part of being a forklift operator.

How competitive is the workplace for forklift operators?

Low

High

Competition at work is not common for forklift operators.

Does being a forklift operator require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?

Low

High

Time pressure tends not to be a major contributor of stress for forklift operators.

Are forklift operators allowed to express themselves creatively?

Low

High

Forklift operators rarely get a chance to express themselves creatively.

Do forklift operators have control over the direction of their work?

Low

High

Forklift operators tend to have a set and inflexible work schedule that they are unable to deviate from too much.

Is being a forklift operator physically demanding?

Low

High

Being a forklift operator may occasionally require demanding physical activity, which may make it not a suitable career choice for everyone.

Are forklift operators exposed to a wide variety of work?

Low

High

Forklift operators tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.

Does being a forklift operator require attention to detail?

Low

High

Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as a forklift operator.

Does being a good forklift operator require compassion and empathy?

Low

High

The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a forklift operator.