▼12%
$17.94
Avg. Base Hourly Rate (USD)
/ hour
Avg. Base Hourly Rate (USD)
10%
$14.19
MEDIAN
$17.94
90%
$22.65
The average hourly pay for a Forklift Operator is $17.94 in 2025
Hourly Rate
$14 - $23
Bonus
$102 - $4k
Profit Sharing
$26 - $3k
Total Pay
$30k - $48k
Is Average Forklift Operator Hourly Pay your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Forklift Operators?
What Do Forklift Operators Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Forklift Operators Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 420 responses, the job of Forklift Operator has received a job satisfaction rating of 3.55 out of 5. On average, Forklift Operators are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Forklift Operator
Medical
70%
Dental
63%
Vision
58%
None
29%
Gender Breakdown for Forklift Operators
Male
90.6%
Female
8.3%
Prefer to self-define
0.8%
This data is based on 1,005 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Forklift Operators
What is the highest pay for Forklift Operators?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Forklift Operator is $22.65 / hour
What is the lowest pay for Forklift Operators?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Forklift Operator is $14.19 / hour
How can Forklift Operators increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Forklift Operator is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Forklift Operator that oversees more junior Forklift Operators, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.