What is it like being a forklift operator? Are there good jobs available in Ontario? What are the work-lifestyle choices?
These are some great questions that we get from job seekers all the time. And we’re going to provide some answers.
First, let’s dig a little deeper into what a forklift operator does.
We found a great definition from the human resources software professionals at Workable:
What does a Forklift Operator do?
A Forklift Operator’s job is to make sure that materials are transported around warehouses, factories and storage sites.
What are the duties and responsibilities of a Forklift Operator?
Forklift Operators use forklifts for unloading deliveries and stacking boxes and other items. They are responsible for ensuring items are transported and stored safely without damaging products.
What makes a good Forklift Operator?
A good Forklift Operator needs to have excellent hand-eye coordination to operate a forklift close to shelves and other workers in a warehouse, factory and storage site. They also need to communicate with other employees to ensure workers are safe throughout their shift.
Who does a Forklift Operator work with?
Forklift Operators work with Maintenance Workers and other crew members throughout their shift.
That’s an accurate description of a forklift driver’s job responsibilities. And in this post, we’re going to drill down into the nitty-gritty details. The facilities that forklift drivers work in are diverse, ranging from outdoor storage yards to warehouses and manufacturing companies.
Work environments, shifts, and work-lifestyle choices are as diverse as the facilities where forklift operators work. There is also ample opportunity for career growth, additional certifications, and advancement.
These are some very desirable career traits. So let’s look at what a career in the forklift operations field looks like. We’ll follow up with some timely advice on where to go and how to get started with a job search.
There are currently good-paying, open jobs for forklift drivers in Ontario.
As a leading automotive, forklift operator, and manufacturing recruitment agency in Greater Toronto and Southwestern Ontario, HCR Personnel Solutions is a valued resource for both employers and workers. Both sides of the hiring equation benefit from our proven experience with organizations of all sizes. Our people, programs, and processes reflect our knowledge and commitment to job seekers and employers of all types. HCR is also proudly affiliated with ACSESS – Association of Canadian Search, Employment, and Staffing Services.
We want to hear your story. Call one of our recruiting professionals at 416-622-1427, or get in touch online today!
In this post, job seekers will learn answers to these job-critical questions:
- What are the responsibilities of a forklift driver?
- Are there educational or other credentials required to get started?
- Are there additional skills that can advance your career?
- What are the salary ranges and growth potential?
- Are there perks in the forklift operations field?
- How do I get started?
Let’s get started by looking a bit deeper into the day-to-day activities of a forklift driver.
What are the critical duties and responsibilities of a forklift driver?
Let’s talk about some of the core responsibilities from the Workable definition.
Forklift operators fill an essential role in the packaging, handling, warehousing, and shipping operations in companies of all sizes and scopes. That’s one reason why forklift drivers are always in demand.
Materials Handling and Logistics
There are a lot of moving parts in the light industrial work and manufacturing space. And manufacturing is growing in Canada. That’s what makes it an exciting and fulfilling field. Materials are constantly moving in and out of the warehouse to keep manufacturing lines running. Finished goods are continually hitting the packaging lines, which are always humming.
These materials handling jobs can be highly challenging and rewarding.
Forklift and Warehouse Logistics Jobs
When materials and products are constantly moving in and out of a manufacturing facility, there will always be requirements for manual logistics jobs. Forklift and mechanical equipment operators are always in demand in the light industrial space.
These jobs can be great career opportunities in their own right, with PTO and other benefits. They can also provide excellent opportunities for advancement.
Are there educational or other credentials required to get started?
Usually, a high school diploma is sufficient, and some employers will waive that requirement for the right candidate. There are generally no additional educational requirements to enter the forklift driver field. However, training and certification are required to operate a forklift in Ontario.
Numerous companies provide forklift operation classes. Just make sure you choose one that’s approved by the CSA (Canadian Standards Association), Ontario Ministry of Labour, and OHSA.
There are also seven classes of forklift certifications to choose from. So make sure you select the right training platform. The classes range from $300 to $1000 (+HST), depending on your level of certification. The duration of the certification course is typically 2-3 days.
Training involves classroom instruction and hands-on training in the forklift, reach truck, etc. Some of the classroom instruction is also available online. Recertification is required every three years, and some employers will pay for certifications and recertifications.
Are there additional skills that can advance your career?
Once you’re on the job for a while, a good start would be to consider additional training for the various types of lift vehicles used in manufacturing, industrial, and construction environments. These include:
- Class 1 – Electric Motor, Rider, Counter-Balanced
- Class 2 – Electric Motor Narrow Aisle
- Class 3 – Electric Motorized Hand or Hand/Rider
- Class 4 – Internal Combustion Engine, Cushion Tires
- Class 5 – Internal Combustion Engine, Pneumatic Tires
- Class 6 – Electric and Internal Combustion Tractors
- Class 7 – Rough Terrain, Pneumatic Tires
Some employers will also pay for on-the-job training and additional certification programs. Tuition assistance is also available from some of the forklift training companies.
More certifications will make you more marketable and more compatible with future job openings.
What are the salary ranges and growth potential?
According to the job board Talent.com
How much does a Forklift driver make in Canada?
$35,100 / Annual
(Based on 2049 salaries)
The average forklift driver salary in Canada is $35,100 per year or $18 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $32,663 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $40,720 per year.
There are literally hundreds of forklift and lift truck jobs available in Ontario on a daily basis.
The forklift operations field is growing, and you can be part of it!
Whether it’s a warehouse, loading dock, or another fast-paced environment, qualified forklift drivers are critical for productivity and a safe working environment. HCR is a leading forklift job agency in Ontario, connecting businesses with certified drivers and operators.
Manufacturing companies are acutely aware of the need for the skilled, motivated, certified logistics professionals that we call forklift and lift truck operators!
Are there perks in the forklift operation field?
A job as a forklift driver can offer flexibility, job satisfaction, and independence. Work schedules typically cover all three shifts, depending on the position and the facility’s hours of operation.
Your work tasks are often flexible as well. You will usually have the flexibility to schedule your tasks as long as they’re complete within your shift. Also, if you’re open to flexible workforce options, you have several employment plans to consider, including:
- Temporary and Contract Positions
- Temporary-to-Hire
- Direct Hire
- Full and Part-Time Positions
Forklift operator jobs can provide you with personal satisfaction, great pay, benefits, and a career path with a future.
If the forklift/lift truck operations field sounds like something you’d like to pursue, let us help you get started.
So how do I get a job as a forklift operator?
That’s the easy part.
Engage with an established recruiting and staffing agency to help you with your career path and job search. A recruiting and staffing firm like HCR can streamline the hiring process by helping you find the companies that are looking for candidates just like you.
Whether you are searching for reliable and skilled workers or looking for new job opportunities, HCR has the solution. We match job seekers with excellent career opportunities every day.
Why settle for just any job when you can choose an opportunity that’s uniquely suited to you?
At HCR, we’re not a typical recruitment firm. You will notice that the first time you talk with us. Your personal recruiter will get to know you beyond your resume. We focus on your personal and professional career goals and objectives, not just the first job that comes along.
At HCR Personnel, we’ll treat you as an individual, not just a number. HCR recruiters have decades of experience and far-reaching connections in the manufacturing, engineering, and industrial sectors. We know which employers are looking for great employees with your skills, knowledge, and goals.
Give one of our professional recruiters a call today at 416-622-1427, or get in touch online today.
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