Forklift Driver / Operator Jobs in London E15 – Immediate Start & Competitive Pay
Workers Direct is actively recruiting experienced and safety-conscious Forklift Driver / Operators for immediate temporary-to-permanent placements in London E15 and the surrounding Stratford, Hackney, and Canary Wharf areas. Secure your next role with a leading UK staffing agency.
Stratford, Hackney, Canary Wharf
Register & start within days
Weekly pay, based on experience & shift
Many roles lead to permanent positions
Job Description: Forklift Driver / Operator
Workers Direct is partnering with major logistics hubs, retail distribution centres, and manufacturing plants in the London E15 postcode to recruit skilled Forklift Operators. This is a pivotal role ensuring the smooth, safe, and efficient movement of goods within fast-paced environments. Successful candidates will be integral to supply chain operations, handling everything from raw materials to finished products, directly impacting productivity and client satisfaction.
We specialise in connecting qualified personnel with reputable employers who value safety and reliability. By applying through Workers Direct, you gain access to vetted opportunities that are often not advertised publicly. Our deep understanding of the local market in areas like Stratford and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park means we can match you with roles that suit your skills, availability, and career goals, whether you're looking for a temporary-to-permanent pathway or flexible shift work.
Why This Role?
- High Demand: Consistently one of the most sought-after logistics roles in London.
- Career Progression: A stepping stone to roles like Warehouse Team Leader or Logistics Supervisor.
- Variety: Work across different industries, from fashion retail to food distribution.
- Agency Support: Benefit from our expertise, from streamlined screening to ongoing payroll support.
Key Responsibilities & Daily Duties
Safe Machinery Operation
Safely operate Counterbalance, Reach, or PPT forklifts to load, unload, lift, stack, and move goods within the warehouse or yard, adhering strictly to site-specific safety protocols and manufacturer guidelines.
Inventory & Stock Control
Work with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) to conduct accurate stock checks, pick orders using RF scanners, and ensure all movements are recorded correctly to maintain real-time inventory accuracy.
Loading & Unloading
Efficiently load and unload goods from HGVs, containers, and delivery vehicles, ensuring loads are secure, weight is distributed correctly, and all documentation (like delivery notes) is checked and signed.
Housekeeping & Compliance
Maintain a clean, tidy, and hazard-free work area. Complete daily pre-use forklift checks (LOLER), report any mechanical faults immediately, and ensure all activities comply with health and safety regulations.
Team Collaboration
Work closely with warehouse operatives, pickers, packers, and supervisors to meet daily targets and deadlines. Communicate effectively about stock locations, potential issues, and workflow requirements.
Quality Assurance
Inspect goods for damage during handling, ensuring only quality products are moved into storage or prepared for dispatch. Report any discrepancies in quantity or condition to the line manager.
Essential Requirements & Qualifications
To be successful in this Forklift Driver / Operator role in London E15, you will need to demonstrate the following. Our candidate screening process ensures we match only the most suitable applicants to our clients.
- Valid RTITB, ITSSAR, or NPORS Forklift Licence: Counterbalance is essential; Reach Truck experience is a significant advantage.
- Proven Experience: Minimum of 6 months recent experience operating in a busy warehouse, logistics, or manufacturing environment.
- Safety-First Mindset: An impeccable safety record and thorough understanding of warehouse health & safety practices.
- Physical Fitness & Reliability: Ability to lift, bend, and work on your feet for full shifts. Punctuality and a strong work ethic are non-negotiable.
Desirable Skills
Candidates with the following will be prioritised for the highest-paying roles:
- • Experience with VNA (Very Narrow Aisle) or Bendi forklifts.
- • Familiarity with voice-picking or advanced WMS systems.
- • Current CSCS card (for construction site warehouse roles).
- • FLT Refresher training completed within the last 3 years.
- • Knowledge of cold storage or ambient warehouse operations.
Not sure if your experience matches? Our consultants can advise. Just like we guide candidates for Warehouse Jobs in Luton or Cleaner Jobs in London, we assess your full potential.
Salary, Benefits & Perks
Competitive Earnings
Pay rates are consistently reviewed to remain competitive within the London E15 market. Typical earnings range from £13.50 to £16.50 per hour, with enhancements for:
- Night shifts & overtime
- Weekend and bank holiday work
- Long-term assignments
Flexibility & Security
We understand the need for work-life balance and job security. Our roles offer:
- Choice of shifts: days, nights, weekends, part-time
- Weekly pay, processed reliably every Friday
- Pension scheme enrolment options
- Holiday pay accrual for all temporary workers
Career Development
Working with Workers Direct is more than just a job; it's a step in your career. We provide:
- Access to free or subsidised FLT refresher training
- Exposure to different industries and high-profile clients
- Performance-based referrals for permanent positions
- Dedicated consultant for career advice and support
Learn how to increase your earning potential as a Forklift Operator in 2026.
How to Apply in 3 Simple Steps
Your journey to a new Forklift Operator role in London E15 starts here. The process is fast, transparent, and designed to get you working.
Submit Your Details
Click the 'Apply Now' button or email your CV to us. Ensure your CV highlights your Forklift licence details, experience, and availability.
Quick Registration & Interview
Our team will contact you for a brief phone interview. Successful candidates are invited for a fast, in-person registration and document check at our office or via video call.
Start Your Assignment
Once vetted and compliant, we'll match you with an immediate role. You'll receive a full site induction, meet your supervisor, and begin earning.
If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected]
Upload Your CV Call: +44 (0) 2030 869080Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The majority of roles in the London E15 area require a Counterbalance Forklift Licence (RTITB, ITSSAR, or NPORS). This is the most common truck used in general warehousing. Roles in larger distribution centres often require a Reach Truck Licence. Having both significantly increases your job opportunities and potential pay. Always bring proof of your licence and any refresher training to your registration.
If your licence has expired, we can often advise on local training providers for a quick refresher course. For guidance on other in-demand certifications, our resource on Warehouse Career Tools is invaluable.
For candidates with all documents ready (valid licence, right-to-work proof, NI number, and bank details), the process can be extremely fast. It's possible to have a phone interview, complete registration, and be placed on a site induction within 24-48 hours for urgent shifts. The key is preparedness. Having your documents scanned and available speeds up the compliance checks we are required to perform by law.
Our operational model is built on speed without compromising safety, much like our services for businesses needing to hire warehouse staff quickly.
The initial placement is typically on a temporary basis, which allows both you and the employer to assess the fit. However, a very high proportion of our Forklift Driver / Operator assignments in London E15 develop into long-term contracts or permanent positions. Clients often use temporary assignments as an extended interview process. Demonstrating reliability, a strong work ethic, and a safety-conscious attitude is the surest way to be offered a permanent role. We actively promote a temp-to-perm jobs pathway for candidates seeking stability.
Your first day will primarily consist of a comprehensive site induction. This is mandatory and covers critical information such as:
- Site-specific health & safety rules: Fire exits, assembly points, accident reporting.
- Operational procedures: How to book equipment, where to find PPE, break times.
- Forklift checks: The specific daily pre-use inspection (LOLER) process for that site.
- Introduction to your team and supervisor: Understanding the chain of command.
You'll be shadowed initially and given clear tasks. Ask questions, follow instructions, and prioritise safety above speed. A good first impression is crucial.
Absolutely. Workers Direct is a multi-sector staffing agency. While we are recruiting heavily for Forklift Driver / Operators in E15, we also have a constant demand for Security Guard / Officer positions across London, requiring SIA licences, and for Cleaner / Cleaning Operative roles in commercial, industrial, and retail settings. The application process is similarly efficient. If you have experience in these fields or know someone who does, explore our dedicated pages for Cleaner Jobs in London or contact us to discuss security vacancies.
Other Immediate Start Logistics Roles in East London
If this specific Forklift Operator role isn't quite right, we have numerous other opportunities in the logistics and warehouse sector across East London. Explore the table below and apply directly.
| Job Title | Location | Pay Rate | Shift | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reach Truck Driver | Stratford, E15 | £14.75 - £16.00/hr | Early / Days | Apply |
| Warehouse Operative (No FLT) | Hackney, E8 | £12.50 - £13.50/hr | Flexible | Apply |
| Night Shift Counterbalance Driver | Canary Wharf, E14 | £15.50 - £17.00/hr | Nights (22:00-06:00) | Apply |
| PPT / Pedestrian Plant Operator | Bow, E3 | £13.00 - £14.25/hr | Days | Apply |
| Multi-Skilled FLT Driver (CB & Reach) | Royal Docks, E16 | £15.00 - £16.50/hr | Rotating Shifts | Apply |
Pay rates are indicative and subject to experience, shift pattern, and client. For the most up-to-date list, visit our Latest Jobs page.
About Workers Direct & Our Local Expertise
Workers Direct is a leading UK recruitment agency specialising in temporary, temp-to-perm, and permanent staffing solutions. With a dedicated focus on the London E15 region—encompassing Stratford, Hackney Wick, and the Olympic Park—we have built strong partnerships with logistics companies, distribution centres, and manufacturers who rely on us for skilled, reliable personnel.
Our approach combines local market knowledge with a national network. We understand the specific demands of East London's logistics sector, from the fast-paced retail environments to large-scale industrial units. This insight allows us to prepare candidates thoroughly, ensuring they succeed from their first shift. For employers, our rigorous candidate screening strategies mean we only put forward individuals who are both qualified and a good cultural fit.
Whether you're a job seeker looking for your next opportunity as a Forklift Driver / Operator, Security Guard / Officer, or Cleaner / Cleaning Operative, or a business needing to scale your workforce, our team is your local partner. Discover more on our About Us page.
Contact Our E15 Recruitment Team
Workers Direct – London E15
Serving Stratford, Hackney, Canary Wharf, and all surrounding East London postcodes.
Phone
+44 (0) 2030 869080Lines open Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm.
Further Resources
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