Forklift Operator CV example

A Forklift Operator CV for South African employers: what to write, the duties and skills to list, a cover letter and tips.

Updated 29 October 2026 · By Tumelo Vincent Tau

1. An example profile

A short profile at the top of your CV says who you are and what work you want. Change it to fit your own experience:

2. Duties to list

Under each job like this in your work experience, list three to five of the duties you really did:

• Operate the forklift safely to load and offload trucks
• Move and stack pallets in the warehouse
• Do daily pre-use checks on the forklift
• Keep aisles clear and follow safety rules
• Record stock movements
• Report damage and faults

3. Skills and certificates

Skills employers look for in this job:

• Valid forklift licence
• Health and safety
• Stock handling
• Concentration

Also list, if you have them:

• Forklift operator certificate, the type of forklift and the date it expires
• Other machines you can operate
• Driver's licence

4. Tips for Forklift Operator jobs

• Put your forklift certificate near the top, with the type of machine (counterbalance, reach truck) and when it expires. Employers will ask to see it.
• Safety is what employers look for: mention daily pre-use checks and your safety record.
• Say what you moved and where: loading trucks, racking, cold rooms.

5. An example cover letter

Send a short cover letter with your CV, naming the post and the reference number from the advert:

More help: how to write a cover letter, a CV with no work experience and job interview tips.