Forklift operators use tractors to lift and move heavy loads of materials.
| Quick Facts: Forklift Operators | |
|---|---|
| Wages | Earn $46,440 per year |
| Employment | Very large occupation |
| 10 Year Growth | Faster than average |
| Annual Openings | Very High |
Preparation
A forklift operator typically needs to:
- complete short-term, on-the-job training
Working Conditions
In a typical work setting, forklift operators:
- Have a medium level of social contact. They talk to others to find out what items to move but spend time alone inside the forklift's cab.
- Spend most of their time inside the cab of a forklift.
- Must be sure the job is done accurately. Items stacked incorrectly could fall and seriously hurt someone.
- Generally work a set schedule. May work regular business hours.
Wages
In Illinois, forklift operators earn a median wage of $46,440 per year.
| $0 | $50 | $100 | $150 | $200 |
| Illinois |
$ amounts are in thousands of dollars.
Employment and Outlook
In Illinois, 32,000 forklift operators work in this very large occupation.
| Location | Employment | 10 Year Growth | Annual Openings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 32,000 Very large | 17.6% Fast | 4,285 Very High |