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10 min czytania 30 April 2025

Who is a forklift operator?

A forklift operator is a warehouse worker responsible for moving and storing goods using a forklift. Who is a forklift operator? What is the job of a forklift operator like? Is obtaining a forklift license difficult?

Who is a forklift operator

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Who is a forklift operator?

A forklift operator is an employee responsible for the internal transport of goods within warehouses, production halls, or logistics centers. The forklift operator profession requires not only practical skills but also the appropriate documentation. To begin work, forklift operator qualifications are essential, including, above all, UDT (Office of Technical Inspection) certifications, which confirm the ability to safely and professionally operate a forklift. A warehouse forklift operator must be familiar with loading and unloading procedures, maintain the vehicle’s technical condition, and adhere to occupational health and safety regulations. This profession requires responsibility, concentration, and good work organization.

What is the job of a forklift operator?

A forklift operator’s job involves the efficient and safe movement of goods in warehouses and manufacturing plants. A forklift operator’s primary responsibility is unloading forklifts, loading pallets, and transporting goods to a designated location. Driving a forklift requires high precision, good coordination, and knowledge of safety regulations. The scope of an operator’s duties may vary depending on the location.

What are the other responsibilities of a forklift operator?

  • Loading and unloading deliveries,
  • Daily technical inspection of the forklift,
  • Ensuring safety during operation,
  • Collaborating with employees from other departments,
  • Reporting faults,
  • Creating documentation (operator’s manual, maintenance log, inspection log).

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Who is a forklift operator

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Forklift Licenses – How to Obtain?

Beginning work as a forklift operator requires the appropriate qualifications. The most important step is a forklift operator course, which provides both theoretical and practical preparation for the job. This forklift operator training covers, among other things, the principles of operating the device, occupational health and safety regulations, and practical exercises in driving and maneuvering.

After completing the course, the operator must pass an exam before a commission of the Office of Technical Inspection (UDT). A successful exam results in the issuance of a UDT license. This certification confirms that the individual possesses the required qualifications for a forklift operator and can legally perform this profession.

To enroll in a forklift training course, you must meet the following requirements:

  • A minimum age of 18 years,
  • No health contraindications,
  • Basic education.

Types of certifications:

  • Forklifts – the most popular category, used in warehouses and logistics centers.
  • Pedestrian trucks – for specialized tasks requiring the operator to be lifted to a height.
  • Rough terrain trucks – designed for use in challenging environments, such as construction sites or mines.
  • Reach trucks – capable of operating racks at high heights.

What are the types of forklifts?

Forklifts are divided into several basic types, depending on their design, application, and power source.

Types of Forklifts

Stackers
The most popular. They are used to lift and transport palletized loads. They can be internal combustion, gas-powered, or electric.

Sideloaders
These have forks positioned on the side, allowing for the transport of long materials, such as pipes or planks. Used in narrow aisles and warehouses.

Pallet trucks (manual and electric)
Designed for short-distance load transport – often found in stores and wholesalers.

Reach trucks
Allow for lifting loads to great heights. Used in high-bay warehouses.

Telescopic handlers (Manitou)
Equipped with a telescopic boom, often used in construction and agriculture.

Specialized trucks (e.g., system trucks, container trucks)
Tailored to specific tasks, such as work in cold stores, ports, or large logistics centers.

Forklift Operator Salaries – What Are They?

A forklift operator is a type of warehouse worker who holds a forklift license. Forklift operator salaries can vary depending on the location, size of the facility, the province of operation, and the forklift operator’s experience. Salaries are typically higher than those of a typical warehouse worker and can range from PLN 4,800 to PLN 9,500 gross. Employers often offer additional benefits that enhance the overall salary of forklift operators. These typically include performance bonuses, night shift bonuses, attendance bonuses, and holiday bonuses.

Forklift Operator – Job Offers

Looking for a job as a forklift operator? Do you have a UDT (Polish Office of Technical Inspection) forklift license and want to find a good, legal job? Contact our employment agency in Katowice! We also have branches in other cities in Poland, so our job offers are available throughout the country! Check out our current job offers for forklift operators and find employment near you or in another region of Poland! We offer stable employment, competitive pay, and coordinator support at every stage of your employment. In many locations, we also provide accommodation and travel to work. Contact us!

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