Forklift Jobs in Stockton With No Experience: How to Get Hired & Certified (2025)

Forklift jobs are some of the best-paying warehouse positions in the Central Valley — and yes, you can get one even without experience. Many employers in Stockton, Tracy, and Modesto will train you on the job or help you get certified.

This guide covers exactly how to break into forklift operating with no prior experience, where to get certified for cheap (or free), and which employers are most likely to hire beginners.

Why Forklift Jobs Are Worth Pursuing

Let's start with the numbers. Here's what forklift operators make compared to general warehouse workers in the 209:

That's a $2-6/hour raise just for knowing how to drive a forklift. Over a year, that's an extra $4,000-12,000 in your pocket.

Want the full breakdown on warehouse pay? Check out our Stockton warehouse salary guide.

Can You Really Get a Forklift Job With No Experience?

Yes. Here are the three paths:

Path 1: Start as a Picker, Get Trained Internally

This is the most common route. Many large warehouses (Amazon, UNFI, etc.) prefer to train their own operators rather than hire externally. Here's how it works:

1. Get hired as an order picker or warehouse associate (no experience needed)
2. Work hard, show up on time, be reliable for 30-90 days
3. Express interest in forklift training to your supervisor
4. Company trains you on-site and certifies you
5. Move into a forklift role with a pay bump

Pros: Free training, guaranteed job after certification, you already know the warehouse layout.
Cons: Takes 1-3 months before you can transition.

Path 2: Get Certified First, Then Apply

If you want to start as a forklift operator from day one, get certified beforehand. This makes you immediately hireable for forklift-specific roles.

Pros: Higher starting pay, more job options, skip the picker phase.
Cons: Costs $100-300 for certification, takes a weekend.

Path 3: Staffing Agencies That Train

Some staffing agencies will certify you as part of the hiring process, especially if they have contracts with warehouses that need operators.

Pros: Free certification, fast placement.
Cons: Usually starts as temp work, may take a few weeks.

Where to Get Forklift Certified in Stockton

Low-Cost Options

What Certification Covers

OSHA requires forklift operators to be trained on:

• Pre-operation inspection (checking the forklift before use)
• Operating controls and steering
• Load handling (picking up, carrying, stacking)
• Traveling with loads (ramps, docks, narrow aisles)
• Safety procedures (pedestrians, other forklifts, hazards)
• Refueling/recharging procedures

Training typically takes 4-8 hours of classroom instruction plus hands-on practice. You'll get a certification card that's valid for 3 years.

Types of Forklifts (And Which to Learn First)

Not all forklifts are the same. Here's what you'll encounter in Stockton warehouses:

Sit-Down Counterbalance Forklift

The classic forklift. You sit in it like a car. Most common in shipping/receiving and general warehouse work.

Learn this first — it's the most versatile and most requested.

Stand-Up Reach Truck

You stand while operating. Used in warehouses with narrow aisles and high racking. Common at Amazon and distribution centers.

Higher demand, often pays more. Good to add after you know sit-down.

Order Picker (Cherry Picker)

Lifts you up with the forks to pick items from high shelves. Used in large distribution centers.

Electric Pallet Jack (Walkie/Rider)

Not technically a forklift, but often required alongside forklift certification. Used for moving pallets around the warehouse floor.

Employers That Hire Entry-Level Forklift Operators

These companies in the Stockton area are known for hiring and training new forklift operators:

Curious how these employers compare? Read our Amazon vs UNFI comparison for an honest breakdown.

What Employers Look For (Even Without Experience)

No forklift experience? Employers will still hire you if you show:

• Reliability - Show up on time, every day. This is #1.
• Clean background check - Most warehouses require this.
• Physical ability - Can you lift 50 lbs? Stand for 8+ hours?
• Basic math/reading - Inventory counts, reading labels.
• Willingness to learn - Express interest in forklift training during your interview.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Option A: Get certified first
   Take a weekend course, then apply directly for forklift operator positions.
2. Option B: Apply for warehouse associate jobs
   Get your foot in the door, then pursue internal forklift training.
3. Apply to multiple employers
   Don't just apply to one place. Hit Amazon, UNFI, and 2-3 staffing agencies at the same time.
4. Follow up
   Call or email 3-5 days after applying if you don't hear back.

For more warehouse job hunting tips, see our complete guide to getting hired at Stockton warehouses.

Common Questions

How long does it take to get forklift certified?

1-2 days for a training course. If you're getting trained on the job, expect 2-4 weeks of supervised practice before you're fully certified.

Is forklift work hard on your body?

Less than picking orders. You're sitting (or standing in one place), not walking 10+ miles a day. The main strain is on your back and neck from looking around constantly.

Can I get a forklift job with a criminal record?

Depends on the employer and the conviction. Many warehouses will hire people with non-violent records, especially through staffing agencies. Be upfront about it.

Do I need a driver's license to operate a forklift?

No. Forklifts don't require a state driver's license. However, some employers prefer candidates who have one (shows responsibility, and you can drive to work).

What shifts are available?

Most warehouses run 3 shifts: day (6am-2pm), swing (2pm-10pm), and overnight (10pm-6am). Night shift often pays a differential of $1-2/hour extra.

Learn more about overnight work in our night shift jobs guide.

Your Path Forward

Here's the fastest path from zero to forklift operator in Stockton:

Get Started Today

Ready to start your forklift career? Here's what to do next:

Questions about forklift jobs in the 209? We're here to help: hello@209.works