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Lift Truck Operator

Do you want to become a Lift Truck Operator? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Lift truck operators transport heavy goods around depots such as factories and warehouses. The goods are usually transported and stored on pallets to enable the load to be lifted easily and safely.

A lift truck operator has to:

• pick up pallets by guiding the forks of the lift truck into the open sides of the pallet
• raise or lower the load to the right height for transporting
• carefully travel with the load to the new position
• raise or lower the pallet into place
• withdraw the forks
• reverse the truck and proceed to the next job.

Some operators work standard daytime hours, Monday to Friday. Others work shifts.They generally work indoors in warehouses or factories, but may work outside, for instance in goods yards.

They usually start on around £12,000. Experienced operators earn £20,000.

Lift truck operators should be:

• responsible
• able to work quickly and safely
• able to assess weights and judge distances
• able to follow safety rules and instructions
• a good team member.

They may work in any industry dealing with heavy or bulky goods.

No qualifications are required. Employers often prefer adult applicants, and experience in a warehouse or stores may be an advantage.

To drive a truck on public roads, an operator must have a driving licence.

Employers provide training, lasting three to five days.

Some lift truck operators move into jobs such as LGV drivers or supervisors in warehousing. Experienced operators may train as instructors.

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