Question 1

What does a forklift operator do?

Accepted Answer

A forklift operator is responsible for safely operating forklifts and other powered industrial equipment to move, load, unload and stack goods in warehouses, distribution centres and logistics facilities. They play a critical role in efficient inventory movement and maintaining workplace safety standards.

Question 2

What award covers forklift operators in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Most forklift operator positions are covered by the Storage Services and Wholesale Award 2020 (MA000084). This award applies to employees in warehousing, storage and distribution operations. Some positions may fall under specific industry awards depending on the business type.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a forklift operator?

Accepted Answer

Under the Storage Services and Wholesale Award, forklift operators are typically classified at Level 2 or higher based on their licence class and experience. Operators with multiple licence classes or supervisory duties may be classified at higher levels. See our Storage Services Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a forklift operator job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract qualified operators. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Above award rates' or 'Competitive hourly rate based on experience and licence class.' Check the current Storage Services Award rates for guidance.

Question 5

What licence do forklift operators need?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

What other qualifications should forklift operators have?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a forklift operator?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Can I hire trainee forklift operators?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent forklift operators?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to forklift operators?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for forklift operators?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

What should I include in a forklift operator employment contract?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to forklift operators?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

Can I require forklift operators to work night shifts?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 15

What breaks are forklift operators entitled to?

Accepted Answer

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 break planning tools to manage coverage.

Question 16

How do I manage forklift operator coverage across shifts?

Accepted Answer

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.

Forklift operator job description