Forklift Driver / Operator Jobs in Manchester M17 | Immediate Start with Workers-Direct
Workers-Direct is actively recruiting experienced and reliable Forklift Driver / Operator professionals for immediate temporary and temp-to-perm placements across the Manchester M17 region. Secure an ASAP start, enjoy competitive weekly pay, and access ongoing work opportunities with one of the UK's leading recruitment agencies. This is your gateway to flexible, rewarding logistics roles in one of the North West's key industrial hubs.
Forklift Driver / Operator Job Description
Workers-Direct is partnering with leading logistics, manufacturing, and distribution companies in the Manchester M17 area to fill critical Forklift Driver positions. These roles are essential to the smooth operation of supply chains, from major retail distribution centres in Trafford Park to specialised manufacturing plants. As a key member of the warehouse team, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient movement, loading, and unloading of goods, ensuring accuracy and productivity in a fast-paced environment. We specialise in connecting skilled operatives with businesses that value speed and reliability, much like our successful placements for Warehouse Jobs in Luton.
Applying through Workers-Direct gives you a significant advantage. You gain access to a wide network of pre-vetted employers seeking Forklift Operators, bypassing the lengthy traditional application process. Our dedicated Manchester consultants understand the local market's specific demands, from the need for Counterbalance licence holders in cold storage to Reach truck specialists in e-commerce fulfilment. We manage the admin, negotiate competitive pay on your behalf, and offer a streamlined path to ongoing work, whether you're looking for a short-term assignment or a stepping stone to a permanent career. Our approach to matching talent with opportunity is informed by advanced methodologies, similar to those detailed in our resource on Mastering Talent Sourcing.
Key Responsibilities for Forklift Drivers in Manchester
- Safe Machinery Operation: Competently and safely operate Counterbalance, Reach, or PPT forklifts to move, stack, and store palletised goods and raw materials, adhering strictly to site safety protocols (FLT).
- Loading & Unloading: Efficiently load and unload goods from vehicles, containers, and production lines, ensuring careful handling to prevent damage and checking documentation for accuracy.
- Stock Control & Replenishment: Use Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or paper-based systems to pick orders, replenish picking faces, and conduct stock counts, maintaining high levels of inventory accuracy.
- Site Housekeeping & Safety: Maintain a clean, tidy, and hazard-free work environment. Complete pre-use equipment checks and report any machinery faults or safety concerns immediately to the supervisor.
- Team Collaboration: Work effectively as part of a warehouse team, supporting colleagues and communicating clearly with warehouse supervisors, Van Drivers, and other Operatives to meet daily targets and deadlines.
What We're Looking For: Essential Requirements
- Valid Forklift Licence (Essential): A current, in-date Counterbalance and/or Reach licence, with proven recent experience. NPORS or RTITB certification is highly desirable.
- Safety-First Mindset: A demonstrable commitment to health and safety regulations. Experience working in environments with strict safety cultures is a major advantage.
- Physical Fitness & Reliability: The role involves periods of standing, lifting, and manual handling. Punctuality, reliability, and a strong work ethic are non-negotiable.
- Basic Numeracy & Communication Skills: Ability to understand work instructions, check quantities, and complete basic paperwork or digital logs accurately.
A Day in the Life: See the Role in Action
Considering a career as a Forklift Driver? Get a real, unfiltered look at the daily tasks, challenges, and rewards of the job from someone who does it every day. This video provides invaluable insight into the skills required and the working environment you can expect in modern logistics hubs.
Why Register with Workers-Direct for Forklift Work?
As a trusted recruitment and temporary staffing agency serving Manchester M17 and the wider North West, Workers-Direct specialises in connecting skilled industrial staff with the employers who need them, fast. We go beyond just filling a vacancy; we build lasting career pathways. When you register with us, you gain a partner dedicated to your success.
- Competitive Weekly Pay: Get paid accurately and on time, every week. We negotiate strong rates based on your experience and licence type.
- Immediate Access to Top Roles: From large 3PL providers in Trafford Park to specialised manufacturers, we have a constant pipeline of Forklift Driver and general Warehouse Operative roles. Explore our nationwide opportunities, similar to our listings for Immediate Start Warehouse Jobs in Bradford.
- Flexibility & Choice: We offer temporary, part-time, full-time, and temp-to-perm contracts. Want to explore other trades? We also place Demolition Labourer / Operative and skilled Handyman roles across Manchester.
- Dedicated Local Consultant: You'll have a single point of contact who understands the Manchester logistics scene, advocates for you, and finds roles that match your skills and career goals.
- Career Support & Tools: Benefit from our industry resources, including a Warehouse Salary Calculator to benchmark your earnings and guides on professional development.
Salary, Benefits & How to Apply
Pay for Forklift Driver / Operator roles in Manchester M17 is highly competitive and varies based on factors such as the type of licence (Counterbalance vs. Reach), shift pattern (days, nights, weekends), and specific industry experience (e.g., cold storage, chemicals).
- Standard Pay Range: £13.00 - £16.00+ per hour. Enhanced rates for night shifts, overtime, and long-term assignments.
- Weekly Pay: All temporary workers are paid weekly directly into their bank account, with payslips provided.
- Holiday Pay: Accrued in line with UK statutory requirements.
- Career Progression: Demonstrate your skills and reliability, and you could be fast-tracked for supervisor roles, permanent positions, or upskilling opportunities. For insights into building a lasting career in logistics, read our Complete Career Guide for Sunderland.
Ready to Start Your Next Role? Don't Wait.
This Forklift Driver / Operator role in Manchester M17 is filling fast. Apply today to secure your interview and get started as soon as tomorrow.
Other Immediate Logistics & Industrial Roles in Manchester
If this specific role isn't quite right, or you hold multiple skills, explore our other urgent vacancies in the Manchester area. We specialise in filling roles quickly across the logistics and construction sectors.
| Job Title | Location | Pay Rate | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reach Truck Operator | Trafford Park, M17 | £14.50 - £15.50 p/h | Apply |
| Warehouse Operative (Picker/Packer) | Salford, M50 | £12.50 - £13.50 p/h | Apply |
| Class 2 HGV Driver (Cat C) | Manchester (Various) | £15.00 - £17.00 p/h | Apply |
| Van Driver with Manual Handling | Central Manchester | £12.50 - £13.50 p/h | Apply |
| Demolition Labourer / Operative | Manchester City Centre | £13.00 - £14.50 p/h | Apply |
| Multi-Skilled Handyman / Maintenance | South Manchester (M20) | £16.00 - £18.00 p/h | Apply |
| Yard Operative (FLT Preferred) | Ashton-Under-Lyne | £12.50 - £13.00 p/h | Apply |
| Construction Site Labourer | MediaCityUK, Salford | £12.50 - £13.50 p/h | Apply |
| Production Operative | Oldham, OL | £12.80 - £13.50 p/h | Apply |
| Warehouse Team Leader | Wythenshawe, M22 | £13.50 - £14.50 p/h | Apply |
* All pay rates are indicative and subject to experience, shift pattern, and specific client requirements. For the most accurate rate, speak to our consultants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Explore More Opportunities with Workers-Direct
Your search for rewarding work doesn't stop here. Workers-Direct is a national agency with deep local expertise. Whether you're a job seeker in Manchester or an employer looking to build a winning team, we have the resources and network to help.
Useful Resources & Popular Job Hubs:
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Contact Our Manchester Team
Workers-Direct
Manchester M17 & North West Region
Phone:
+44 (0) 2030 869080Email:
[email protected]Our team is available to discuss this Forklift Driver / Operator role and other opportunities in Manchester. If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected].
Workers-Direct is an equal-opportunities employment agency and temporary staffing specialist serving Manchester M17, Trafford Park, and the wider North West region. Registration Number: [12345678]. © 2026 Workers-Direct. All rights reserved.
