Forklift operators

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October 31, 2008

Forklift operators

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Pay: The 8,780 industrial truck and tractor operators in the Seattle- Tacoma-Bellevue area earned a median wage of $16.74 an hour, or $34,820 a year, in May 2007, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. The middle half earned between $27,540 and $44,490.

The job: These workers drive industrial trucks or tractors to move materials around warehouses, storage yards, factories and construction sites. A typical industrial truck is often called a forklift or lift truck. Operators also may run tractors that pull trailers loaded with materials in or around factories and warehouses.

Need to know: Some jobs expose workers to loud noises, harmful materials and chemicals. These jobs have become much less dangerous as safety equipment — such as overhead guards on lift trucks — has become common.

Demand: Despite the little or no employment growth expected, job openings should be plentiful due to the need to replace those who leave for other jobs or retire.

Training: Workers who handle toxic chemicals or use forklifts or other dangerous equipment must receive safety training, usually provided by the employer. Experience operating mobile equipment — such as tractors on farms or heavy equipment in the Armed Forces — is an asset.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: www.stats.bls.gov/oco