In previous article of ‘career viewpoint series’ for forklift truck drivers we covered forklift driver salary, responsibility and qualification. In this third article of the series, we will cover the working conditions, experience and employers.

Working conditions

As with any other job classified s ‘high risk’, forklift drivers can expect relatively difficult work conditions. This is one of the main reason why forklift drivers are required to undergo formal forklift training and acquire forklift licence before they are allowed to operate a forklift. Forklift drivers have to wear health and safety equipment at all times while on the job. The safety equipment for forklift drivers include, but not limited to, hard hat, high visibility clothing and steel toe caps shoes.

Forklift driver role in Melbourne may vary on a job to job basis. Some forklift operator may require working outside or in hostile indoor areas such as cold storages. As such, drivers should be prepared to work in adverse conditions and also be capable of maintaining a high degree of concentration at the same time. Warehouses and factories can be busy workplaces and it is crucial that forklift drivers are aware of their surroundings to avoid colliding into any goods machineries or people. Forklift operators often have to transport heavy loads and so there is a lot of responsibility on the driver to take good care of their cargo.

Typical hours for a full-time forklift driver would be between 38 and 40 hours a week with additional shift work just as common as more regular working hours.

Experience

With high demand of forklift operators in Melbourne and many shift basis roles available, the majority of employers will take on a forklift driver with no previous experience, given that, he/she possesses a valid forklift licence. However, as with any other job, previous experience of the role would be helpful.

Employers

In Melbourne, there is always a high demand for forklift drivers due to the number of companies that require their services. Just about every warehouse and factory requires at least one forklift operator as do airports, ports and plenty of other industrial businesses. This means jobs may be available at anywhere from the Melbourne city to Tullamarine Airport. If you want to become a forklift driver but not sure where to start, then contact one of the friendly staff at Go workplace Training and they will help you choose the course that is right for you.