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Forklift Operator

Move materials and equipment around FIFO warehouses and construction sites.

Estimated Salary: $70,000 - $100,000+ per year

Salary & Career Insights

What can I realistically earn as a Forklift Operator?

Typical Salary Range

$70,000 - $100,000+

per year, before tax

Entry Level$70,000 – $80,000
Experienced$85,000 – $100,000

Typical Rosters

2:18:6

Industries

MiningWarehouseConstruction

Career Growth

Starting Role

Forklift Operator

Next Role

Multi-Ticketed Operator (Telehandler / EWP)

Advanced Role

Operations Supervisor

Salary information is indicative only. Actual earnings depend on location, employer, experience, qualifications and market demand.

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Current Career PathwayForklift Operator
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SEEK

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INDEED

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CAREERONE

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What Is This Job?

Forklift Operators move stock and equipment safely around FIFO sites, warehouses and laydown yards.

Typical Duties
  • Pre-start equipment checks
  • Loading and unloading trucks
  • Stacking and de-stacking pallets
  • Site traffic awareness
Day In The Life
  1. Pre-start machine check
  2. Load and unload deliveries
  3. Move materials to crews
  4. End-of-shift refuel and park-up
Typical Rosters
  • 2/1 or 8/6
Physical Requirements
  • Sitting and operating controls for long periods
  • Some lifting and climbing
Common Employers
  • Linfox
  • Toll
  • Major mining operators
  • Civil contractors

Employer names are listed for general information. FIFO Go is not affiliated with these companies.

Where Do They Work?
MinesWarehousesConstruction ProjectsIndustrial Sites
Common Entry Pathways
  • High Risk Work Licence (LF) is essential
FIFO Readiness Impact

Highly transferable ticket. Strong FIFO readiness when paired with White Card and a clean record.

Career Progression
Forklift Operator
Multi-Ticketed Operator (Telehandler / EWP)
Leading Hand
Operations Supervisor
Tickets Needed
Tickets Needed
Who This Job Suits
  • Licensed operators
  • Warehouse workers
Common Questions

Is a Forklift ticket enough?

It is the main requirement. White Card and a clean driving record also help.