The forklift operator, also known as a warehouse clerk, is a key player in the supply chain. They must be trained, competent and extremely careful when handling specific equipment and goods.
Our logistics recruitment experts have put together a job description for the forklift operator so that this job no longer holds any secrets for you!
What do forklift operators do
The forklift operator - or warehouse clerk - is responsible for operating forklifts. Their role is to transport goods and materials to their workplace, often a warehouse.
They may be required to operate a variety of transportation equipment within a warehouse, such as a tractor or forklift, to move pallets loaded with products that have arrived by truck and place them in the warehouse.
Depending on where they work and how much they are trusted, forklift operators or warehouse clerks can perform a variety of functions:
- Control the arrival of merchandise and complete paperwork related to the arrival to establish compliance or not with suppliers;
- Store incoming merchandise by operating the forklift to optimize storage space;
- Manage inventory and optimize the layout of the warehouse space where they operate;
- Remove the merchandise when the transporter arrives to load the truck that will leave for the point of sale or directly to the customer;
- Computerize the arrival and departure information on specialized software.
The forklift operator must really be aware of the safety standards related to all the transport equipment he handles. While they can participate in computerized tasks related to logistics and maintenance, they must above all deal with physical and dangerous tasks, especially when it comes to moving heavy merchandise at height.
Forklift operator skills and abilities
Valuable skills are expected for the forklift operator job. These include:
- Physical fitness and stamina - being a forklift operator is physically demanding. You need to be in good shape and have stamina to avoid overexertion.
- Be dynamic and efficient - always busy, often in a noisy and very large environment, the forklift operator is always on the move. This is an ideal job for people who can't stand still and like to vary their tasks. This dynamism must be put at the service of a good efficiency, to act quickly according to the requests.
- Conscientious and meticulous - handling forklifts requires extreme meticulousness as some pallets must be picked up high and to the centimetre. Also, being conscientious about safety standards is essential to avoid accidents on the job.
- Being organized for inventory management - Knowing where the merchandise is located, knowing the exact location of each item saves a lot of time for the forklift operator and consequently for the entire supply chain process.
What license do you need to operate a forklift?
It is possible to become a forklift operator without having a diploma. However, since January 2007, according to the Regulation respecting occupational health and safety, it has been mandatory to have completed training for this job, which can be provided by the employer.
Section 256.3 of these regulations stresses the importance of having received training that covers "the basic concepts relating to elevator trucks [and] the safety rules and measures". There are several organizations that offer forklift operator training. A theoretical and a practical portion lead to obtaining the precious permit.
How much does a forklift operator earn in Canada?
In Canada, the average salary of a forklift operator is estimated at $32,000 per year. In Quebec, it is estimated to be around $40,000 per year.
Are there any prospects for growth in this profession?
It is possible to progress towards the professions of forklift operator, warehouse manager, or to move towards other professions in the supply chain, such as logistics manager. In order to progress more easily, a DEC in logistics is recommended.
Looking for a forklift operator job in Montreal?
Forklift operators are always in need of manpower. The need for recruitment is great, and you can move into a major sector of the supply chain through this position.
Are you looking for a forklift operator position in Montreal? Take a look at our logistics jobs or send us your spontaneous application directly.
