To work as a forklift operator, you typically need to:

• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required for this job. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Work experience

Any experience safely driving or operating equipment can help you get a trainee position.

On-the-job training

Forklift operators learn their skills on the job from experienced operators. You begin as a helper and perform routine tasks. As you gain experience, you work on your own. Training generally lasts less than a month.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be cargo or transportation specialists. Training lasts two to nine weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.