Warehouse Forklift Operator(Contract)|Downey
Role Based in Downey
Flexible Role in Downey: Warehouse Forklift Operator Employer: UPS (Hiring in Downey) Location: Downey, CA
Compensation: $24-$28/Hour (approx. $54.1k/Year) Benefits: Benefits may be available based on employment type. Flexible contract/gig opportunity in Downey.
Position Scope
Apply your your professional skills skills at our Downey location.
- This Downey-based role is an excellent opportunity for professionals skilled in relevant skills.
- Our UPS team in Downey, CA is growing.
- Benefit from working in Downey, a key hub for the Package Logistics industry.
About UPS & Our Culture
At UPS, powered industrial equipment is the backbone of our heaviest hub and gateway operations. Our Forklift Operators are certified professionals who move massive pallet volumes across our largest facilities with precision and safety. If you are an experienced equipment operator searching for UPS warehouse jobs that put your skills to premium use — or an associate ready to earn your certification on the job — our forklift program is one of the strongest in the logistics careers space. We maintain a world-class equipment fleet and a safety culture that industry peers consistently benchmark.
What Our Team Says (Employee Reviews)
"UPS certified me on three different machines when I started. The equipment is incredibly well-maintained and inspected daily. The union wage for a certified operator at UPS is significantly higher than anything I earned at a private warehouse job before, and the benefits are genuinely career-grade. I am not going anywhere." - Current Forklift Operator, Columbus, OH.
Role Overview & Responsibilities
As a UPS Warehouse Forklift Operator, you operate powered industrial trucks across our hub and gateway facilities, moving high-volume pallet loads, replenishing sort areas, and supporting inbound and outbound trailer operations under strict UPS safety protocols.
- Pallet Jack & Forklift Operation: Safely operate electric pallet jacks, sit-down counterbalance forklifts, and reach trucks to move shrink-wrapped pallet loads from staging areas to inbound sort belts and outbound trailer doors.
- Trailer Spotting Support: Assist the yard management team by moving loaded floor-level pallets from completed trailers to the sort floor, maintaining continuous product flow during high-volume sort windows.
- Daily Equipment Inspection: Complete thorough pre-shift OSHA-required equipment inspections before operating any powered industrial truck, documenting findings and immediately removing any unsafe equipment from service.
Benefits & Perks
UPS Forklift Operators earn a significant pay premium above standard handler wages under the Teamsters contract. Free on-site OSHA-compliant forklift certification is provided for all equipment classes operated. Full Teamsters medical, dental, vision, pension, and UPS Earn & Learn tuition benefits are included.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Warehouse Forklift Operator|Downey position pay at UPS?
This role offers a pay range of $24 - $28. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, shift, and location within Downey.
Where is this Warehouse Forklift Operator|Downey job located?
This position is based in Downey, CA. UPS has facilities throughout the region, but this specific opening is in Downey.
Do I need a forklift certification for this role?
No prior forklift certification is required. UPS provides free, paid on-site training and certification for all powered industrial truck (PIT) equipment including forklifts, clamp trucks, and order pickers.
What benefits does UPS offer for this position?
UPS provides comprehensive benefits starting Day 1, which may include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and employee assistance programs.
Does UPS offer tuition assistance or education benefits?
Yes, UPS offers fully funded tuition reimbursement programs. Eligible associates can pursue degrees and certifications at no cost through programs like Career Choice, covering tuition, books, and fees.
Does UPS provide training for new hires?
Yes, UPS provides comprehensive paid training for all new associates. This includes safety orientation, equipment operation certification, and role-specific process training.
