Becoming a forklift mechanic is more than just driving heavy industrial vehicles. It’s also about preparing products for safe transport and shipping and inspecting incoming and outgoing shipments. The job of a forklift technician can be gratifying. Your material handling customers will thank you for rewiring their electric forklifts, fixing lithium-ion batteries, or troubleshooting problems to maintain LP and diesel fleet performance.
Get Experience
There are a few ways to gain experience with forklifts and related equipment. You can start by contacting local companies and inquiring about Welch careers by Welch Equipment Company. Alternatively, you can take a course offered by a training provider to gain practical experience under professional supervision. Lastly, many forklift drivers have taken the leap and started their businesses, purchasing and selling used forklifts or offering warehouse space for rent. This is a lucrative path that can provide a stable income. Getting on-the-job experience as a forklift technician is crucial not only for career advancement but also for safety and liability purposes. You can search the Internet for videos demonstrating operating techniques or safety precautions to get started. You can also learn about different types of forklifts by reading the online operator manuals available for free. You can even practice with a family member’s forklift or your vehicle. Just make sure to seek the correct permissions and follow proper safety protocols.
Become Certified
While it isn’t always required, obtaining certification is an excellent way to separate yourself from the pack and prove your commitment to your career. This can also give you an advantage when applying for Welch careers jobs. Many technical schools, community colleges, and private training centers offer forklift training courses. These typically include in-classroom instruction (lecture, PowerPoint, or projector presentations) and hands-on evaluations. The in-class portion typically covers basic forklift safety regulations, pre-operational checks, and loading/unloading practices. The hands-on evaluations allow trainers to evaluate your ability to drive and operate forklifts under workplace conditions. Finding a program that offers both the classroom and hands-on components is best. Once you’ve completed the training, you can receive your forklift technician certificate. It may look similar to your driver’s license but doesn’t have your picture or name. This is so the Occupational Safety and Health Administration can track and verify your credentials.
Get a Job
As a forklift technician, you will help keep essential equipment in top condition at warehouses. You will also be responsible for less glamorous duties, such as completing preventative maintenance and filing paperwork to track inventory levels. Forklifts are essential to the economy, and it is vital that they remain up and running for businesses to operate. Licensed forklift technicians help companies comply with OSHA standards and avoid heavy fines, material damage, and other costly costs. They are also more mindful of safety and decrease incidents of injury and property damage on the job. Whether you prefer to work as a road technician or inside the shop, there are many opportunities to land a job as a forklift mechanic with leading brands.
Start Earning Money
Whether at a logistics company, a retail business, or a manufacturing plant, you can start earning as soon as you become certified. Pay varies based on the industry and the size of the employer. You’ll likely earn more at larger companies with various forklifts. Warehouses rely on forklifts to maneuver heavy loads and transport them across warehouse facilities. It’s crucial to maintain them as a forklift in good condition saves money and time. It also helps ensure everyone goes home in one piece at the end of their shift. That’s why a forklift technician job is an excellent option for anyone who wants to make a living working with their hands. It’s a stable career and offers plenty of opportunities for professional growth. Plus, many forklift mechanics work independently and act as their bosses. They love what they do and continue pursuing additional lifelong learning certifications.
