As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Fork Lift Operator in South Dakota is $38,853 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $19.
However, a Fork Lift Operator's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Fork Lift Operator Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $42,312 | $3,526 | $814 | $20 |
| Average | $38,853 | $3,238 | $747 | $19 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,782 | $2,982 | $688 | $17 |
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A Fork Lift Operator's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Fork Lift Operator's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Fork Lift Operator | $38,303 |
| Intermediate Level Fork Lift Operator | $38,853 |
| Senior Level Fork Lift Operator | $39,989 |
| Specialist Level Fork Lift Operator | $40,144 |
| Expert Level Fork Lift Operator | $40,402 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Fork Lift Operators. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
Understanding how a Fork Lift Operator's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $42,312 | $3,526 | $814 | $20 |
| Average | $38,853 | $3,238 | $747 | $19 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,782 | $2,982 | $688 | $17 |
Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Fork Lift Operator, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Crane Operator | $47,298 | 22% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator II | $46,423 | 19% |
| Mobile Crane Operator | $49,678 | 28% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Fork Lift Operator job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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