Forklift operator job description

Forklift operators must hold a current High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) with the LF (forklift) class issued by a state or territory regulator. This licence is obtained after completing accredited training and assessment. Additional licence classes like LO (order picker) may be required depending on the equipment used.

Beyond the forklift licence, operators should have a valid White Card (construction induction) if working on construction sites, manual handling training, and workplace health and safety awareness. A current driver’s licence may be required if duties include driving company vehicles.

For experienced roles, look for proven warehouse or logistics experience, familiarity with different forklift types (counterbalance, reach, order pickers), RF scanner proficiency, and understanding of warehouse management systems. Experience with stock rotation methods like FIFO is valuable.

While operators must hold a valid licence to operate forklifts independently, you can support employees to obtain their licence through accredited training programs. Until licensed, they cannot operate forklifts unsupervised. Many employers pay for licence training as part of their workforce development.

This depends on your operational needs. Permanent operators provide consistency and reduce training costs, while casuals offer flexibility for peak periods. Many warehouses use a core permanent team supplemented by casuals during busy seasons. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Under the Storage Services Award, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays (150%), Sundays (200%), public holidays (250%), and shift work penalties for afternoon and night shifts. Casual employees receive a 25% loading. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Under the Storage Services Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is typically 3 hours per shift. Part-time employees have guaranteed minimum hours. Check the specific award provisions for your operation type.

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type, hourly rate, applicable award, licence requirements, main duties, work location, shift patterns, PPE requirements and any physical requirements. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Under the Storage Services Award, rosters should be provided at least 7 days in advance where practicable. Changes require reasonable notice unless due to unforeseen circumstances. Using rostering software helps ensure compliance and gives staff visibility of upcoming shifts.

Yes, but night shift requirements should be clearly communicated in the job description. Many distribution centres operate 24/7 to meet dispatch deadlines. Under the award, employees are entitled to shift penalties for night work. Be clear about shift expectations during hiring.

Under the Storage Services Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break of 30-60 minutes. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. Breaks must be scheduled to ensure continuous warehouse operations. Use rostering software to manage coverage.

Plan for adequate handover time between shifts to ensure forklift availability and communicate any equipment issues. Consider cross-training operators on different equipment types to provide flexibility. Use rostering software to balance skills across shifts.