DayShift / Job descriptions / Forklift operator

Forklift operator job description: what you'll do and what to write on your resume

Applying for forklift operator at a warehouse or factory? Copy the duties below into your resume, then read what the interview asks.

Duties to write on your resume

Start each line with what you did. Keep the ones you've really done.

• Operated sit-down and stand-up forklifts to load and unload trucks and containers
• Moved pallets of goods between receiving, storage racks and shipping areas
• Stacked and retrieved pallets from high racks safely and without damaging goods
• Checked the forklift before each shift, including brakes, forks, horn and tires
• Matched pallet labels and counts to delivery papers and reported any shortage or damage
• Followed warehouse safety rules, speed limits and walkway markings at all times
• Kept the loading area clear and put pallets back in their right locations
• Charged batteries or refueled the forklift and reported faults to the supervisor

No forklift work yet? Use these lines for any warehouse, factory or hardware job where you moved stock, and say where.

A resume objective you can adapt

Hardworking applicant with Heavy Equipment Operation (Forklift) NC II training, looking for a forklift operator job, ready to work rotating shifts and follow safety rules every day.

Skills employers ask for

• Driving a forklift safely in tight spaces
• Judging distance and load weight
• Reading pallet labels and delivery papers
• Following safety rules without shortcuts
• Working with a team and listening to instructions

What the interview asks

1. Have you operated a forklift before, and what type? Name the types you've used and where, and be honest if you're still learning.
2. What do you check before you start your shift? List the brakes, forks, horn, lights, tires and battery or fuel, in that order.
3. What would you do if a pallet looked unstable on the forks? Say you'd stop, lower the load, restack it and tell your supervisor.
4. Can you work night shifts, overtime and weekends? Answer honestly, because they plan the schedule around it.

The questions every interview asks, with sample answers

How to get hired

1. Most posts ask for at least a high school diploma and some forklift experience, though some hire and train.
2. Ask if the employer wants Heavy Equipment Operation (Forklift) NC II from TESDA. It helps you stand out.
3. Prepare a resume, a valid ID, NBI clearance, a medical certificate and your SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG and TIN numbers.
4. Apply online or in person at the warehouse or the agency that hires for it.
5. Expect an interview and sometimes a practical test on the forklift.

Licence or certificate

• TESDA offers a national certificate for this work: Heavy Equipment Operation (Forklift) NC II. Source

What the work is like

You sit or stand for long hours, moving loads in a busy, noisy space. The hard part is staying alert, because one mistake can hurt someone.

Questions

Do I need experience to work as a forklift operator?

Some posts ask for it, but others train new hires. Training from a TESDA center helps if you have none.

What should I study to become a forklift operator?

TESDA offers Heavy Equipment Operation (Forklift) NC II. You can take it after high school.

Is forklift work only on day shifts?

No. Many warehouses run rotating shifts, including nights, so ask during the interview.

Similar jobs

• Warehouse staff
• Stock clerk
• Packer
• Machine operator
• Truck driver

Want work from home in daylight hours?

DayShift lists remote jobs with Singapore and Asia clients, on the same clock as Manila. Applying is free, and we never ask you for money. See today's DayShift jobs