Also called: Industrial Truck Operator, Lift Truck Driver
Moves raw materials and finished products around the plant and warehouse using forklifts.
You zip pallets of parts to the line before it runs out, stack finished products three levels high and load trucks at the dock. Smooth, safe drivers are prized, and certification takes just a few days.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. No degree needed; OSHA forklift certification is done on the job.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Certification. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Growing about average (about 2% over 10 years). BLS projects about average growth.
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. Autonomous forklifts and AMRs are spreading in plants and warehouses; human drivers will shrink over 10 years.
Age 18+. One way to start: Apply at warehouses and plants; they certify you on the forklift during your first days
Classes: Shop class, Algebra.
Official data: O*NET occupation 53-7051.
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