Fork Lift Truck Driver

Fork lift truck drivers transport heavy goods around depots such as factories and warehouses. They load and unload goods from vehicles, such as lorries and aircraft, or they arrange the goods in warehouses on storage racks. Before lifting a load, the operator must make sure the truck is not overloaded and that the load is secure.

Operators may have to perform daily maintenance checks on the truck. They may also help to load and unload trucks manually and perform other warehouse duties such as packing. Some operators work standard hours, Monday to Friday. However, shift working is common and overtime may be available.

Operators work indoors, in a warehouse which may be light, airy and temperature controlled. They also work outside, in a goods yard or transporting goods to other sites in all weathers.

To work as a lift truck operator you should have a responsible and mature attitude to work, be able to work quickly and safely, especially during busy periods and have good physical co-ordination to operate a truck. You should be able to assess weights and judge distances and be able to follow written instructions and keep records.

No formal educational qualifications are required, but basic maths is useful when working out safe loads. Experience of work in a warehouse or stores environment may be an advantage. To drive a lift truck unsupervised you must be at least 18 years old. Training can be undertaken before then, but work must be supervised until trainees are 18. For this reason, many employers prefer applicants to be over 18. If a truck is used on public roads, traffic legislation applies and you must hold a driving licence. New entrants or trainees may be asked to undergo a medical examination and aptitude test.

Lift truck operators work in factories, stores, warehouses, goods yards or heavy haulage depots. They may be employed in any industry dealing with heavy or bulky goods. Promotion prospects are limited, though some operators progress by moving to other related jobs, such as supervisors in warehousing or despatch. Experienced operators may be selected to train as instructors.