A great forklift operator resume is the key that will move your career forward and set you up for success in the field of production. The rise of online shopping has drastically increased the need for skilled forklift operators who are efficient and professional. Our forklift operator resume example and guide is designed to help you highlight your best traits to impress hiring managers and land a role that allows you to thrive.
Resume.io prides itself on offering more than 250 resume examples designed to help you land the perfect role. Here's what we'll cover in the rest of this guide, along with our forklift operator resume sample:
- How to write a forklift operator resume that showcases your strengths
- The best format for a forklift operator resume sample
- The key sections to make your experience stand out
- How great design can take a forklift operator resume sample to the next level
What does a forklift operator do?
Forklift operators work with machines and equipment during manufacturing, packaging, or some form of production. Forklift operators might work with computer-controlled equipment or more mechanically functioning machines. They may be responsible for setting machines up, controlling and adjusting them, and fixing any issues that might arise with the machine’s functioning.
Forklift operators should be adept at thoroughly inspecting machinery to ensure their good condition and safety compliance standards. They should also keep organized activity logs consisting of important information relating to the machine operation. An ideal candidate holds a high school diploma or equivalent diploma and has experience as a forklift operator, or has an in-depth knowledge of machinery.
The job outlook for forklift operators is as bright as ever. According to Hiringlab.org, job postings for forklift operators doubled between 2014 and 2018 when they reached 1.5 million postings – on one job board alone! There are tons of options available to you. Our forklift operator resume sample will help you make sure your application is poised to land your perfect role.
Need more advice on how to write a forklift operator's cv? Check out our similar resume samples from the same production category:
How to write a forklift operator resume
To write a great forklift operator resume you'll need to include these key sections found on many CVs:
- The resume header
- The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
- The employment history section
- The resume skills section
- The education section
A forklift operator resume should clearly demonstrate a candidate’s understanding of production procedures and machine operation. Forklift operators should have excellent communication skills and an understanding of the importance of teamwork.
Make sure to do your research about the company, its operations and its values. While you might think that a forklift operator is production worker behind the scenes, a resume that is customized to the company's needs and tone can go a long way in standing out to a hiring manger. Check out our adaptable forklift operator resume example for a closer look at how to tailor your resume for success.
While the hiring manager will have final say in your employment, they are not the first ones to read your resume. In fact, most medium to large logistics companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes and rank them against other candidates. Only the strongest resumes will make it to the hiring manager's desk. While it may sound daunting, there are a few steps you can take to maximize your resume's chances of success:
- Read the job description carefully and take note of any duties, skills or experiences emphasized in the job description.
- Insert those "keywords" into the appropriate places on your resume taking care to use the exact language provided by the employer.
- Create a resume format that is easy for the ATS to read by including clear sections with common labels like "Education" or "Skills."
Choosing the best resume format for forklift operators
When it comes to choosing the best resume format for a forklift operator position, you have options. While many candidates are familiar with the reverse chronological format, it's not the only one that exits. You may also choose to use a combination resume format which is a great choice for forklift operators who are new to the industry or have worked many years at the same place. Let's take a closer look at both options:
Reverse chronological format
This resume format contains an employment history section that begins with your most recent role and works backwards until you've listed all relevant experience. If you've worked at many different companies as either a forklift operator or in a related capacity, this is likely the best resume format for you.
Combination (hybrid) resume format
The combination resume format gets its name from the fact that it takes elements of the more traditional format and combines it with a more skills-focused experience section. This is a great choice if you want to highlight your qualifications and knowledge right from the top of your resume. Below, you can include an employment history section that showcases relevant positions.
Resume summary example
Your resume summary is the place to give brief examples of your experience, skills and training as a forklift operator. The summary section is just a sample of what you're capable of and should leave the hiring manager curious to read more about what you can bring to their company. Highlight your biggest accomplishments and attributes here while using as many powerful action verbs and job specific information as you can. A forklift operator must be able to safely and effectively operate machines. A strong candidate should list key attributes that effectively showcase necessary qualifications and accomplishments for this position.
Check out this excerpt from our forklift operator resume example:
A dependable and attentive forklift operator with 19 years of experience in industrial manufacturing environments. Knowledgeable in industry compliant health and safety standards. Certified in class-L machine maintenance and repairs. Managed and operated a variety of machines including radial drill presses, power presses, and variable speed belt machines. Bringing forth a strong work ethic and commitment to efficiency and process. A team player with an upbeat attitude and a willingness to stay until the work is done.
The summary is a great place to add specific keywords from the job description onto your resume. However, make sure not to overload your resume with too many keywords that are either untrue or don't make sense. While you might succeed in getting past the ATS, you'll quickly lose credibility with the hiring manager and will severely reduce your chances of landing the position.
Employment history sample
Your employment history section is the place to list all positions relevant to the forklift operator role. Remember to use powerful action verbs and mention job specific accomplishments that prove you are an excellent candidate. For related positions, make sure to highlight transferable skills – ones that will serve you well in the forklift operator role. Don't forget to include key pieces of information like the company name, location, dates worked and your job title.
See how to format your employment history bullet points in our forklift operator resume sample.
- Utilized a radial drilling machine as part of a 23 part production process on an automotive part manufacturing plant.
- Completed an average of 105 components per hour and identified an efficiency that led to a 23% production increase.
- Maintained specialty tools and repairs for a fleet of 13 milling machines under my direct supervision, including cleaning and part ordering.
- Received class-L machinery safety certification.
- Handled machine set up and quality testing.
Forklift operator resume education example
While your forklift operator resume education section may not be lengthy, it should include one important piece of information: your certification to operate a forklift. You can also list all other degrees and certifications here. Any honors or distinctions should be noted here as well. If you hold a degree higher than a bachelors degree, you may leave out your high school.
Here's an idea of how to format your education section from our forklift operator resume example:
- 2001-2002 Heavy Equipment Operator Training, ATS Sun Prairie, WI
- 1997-2001 Sun Prairie High School, High School Diploma Sun Prairie, WI
CV skills example
When writing a forklift operator CV, your skills are at the heart of what you do. The CV skills section is the best place to highlight any succinct qualifications, while wordier abilities can be added to your job history. Make sure to include a good balance of hard skills (technical abilities involving tools or specialized knowledge) and soft skills (innate qualities like communication and teamwork.) In order to be considered a strong candidate you must present yourself as a physically fit and knowledgeable individual, who is able to effectively and safely operate machinery. Don't forget to include specific skills from the job description like quality assurance or safety training
Here's the skills section from our forklift operator resume sample:
- Advanced Mechanical Skills
- Excellent Physical Stamina
- Time Management Skills
- Knowledge of Hand and Power Tools
Resume layout and design
First impressions count for a lot, that's why your resume layout and design should be as tight as your forklift handling. Make sure to create a resume header that makes your name and contact information stand out from the rest of the document. While forklift operators can don't need to use much color or images, an attractive page design can show a hiring manager that you care about the position.
If you don't have time to fight with word processors or graphic design software, you may consider using a resume template to help you create a great layout. These types of designs can make great presentation a breeze and allow you to quickly update your resume as you apply to multiple openings.
- Keep a good balance of white space to text on your resume
- Make your name stand out inside an attractive header
- Create a resume longer than one page
- Use more than two different fonts on one resume
Key takeaways for a forklift operator resume
- Forklift operators are in growing demand – now is the time to complete a great resume and land your perfect position!
- Depending on your level of experience, you may want to choose a combination resume format instead of a chronological one.
- Your resume summary is the place to hook a hiring manager's attention with your strongest skills and accomplishments.
- Don't forget to include keywords from the job description to increase your chances of beating the ATS.
- Professional presentation is key so make sure you create an attractive layout and proofread your resume before you submit.
