Heavy Equipment Operator / Forklift Operator
Overview
A heavy equipment or forklift operator is responsible for the loading and unloading of goods.

What responsibilities will I have?
- Pull and stage orders for delivery with extreme accuracy
- Load and unload trucks with designated products
- Unload incoming products and materials
- Ensure specification and quantity of orders are correct
- Secure loads, close and seal trucks where necessary
- Ensure product is transported from storage or receiving area in a manner consistent with safety, quality and production goals
- Verify stock and identify losses
- Keep inventory of goods loaded and record and sign tallies
- Remove, weigh, stretch wrap and record finished pallets
- Provide commodities to production lines
- Maintain a clean and safe working area around loading area
- Sample products and notify supervisor of any irregularities
- Process report requests, documents, deliveries and/or materials for the purpose of disseminating information and/or materials to appropriate parties
- Perform minor repair works as required for efficient loading operations
What education and training is required?
A high school diploma and forklift certification is required to become a heavy equipment or forklift operator.
To pursue a career as a Heavy Equipment Operator / Forklift Operator:
The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, diesel mechanics and mathematics.
Where can I work?
Heavy equipment or forklift operators may work for any agricultural business or organization that regularly transports and receives goods.
Future Job Market / Outlook
The future outlook for a heavy equipment or forklift operator will be great over the next five years.
Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations
- The Forklift Truck Association
- Industrial Truck Association
- Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association