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Forklift Operating
This standard is to be used for grading nonsupervisory jobs which involve the operation of electric, diesel, or gasoline powered fork lift trucks to move, stack and unstack, and load and unload materials in and about warehouses, storage areas, loading docks, and on and off vehicles, etc. (See Digest Vol. 15 for guidance on proper grading of positions in which work covered by this series is combined with work typical of another series and grade level.)
What WG-5704 pays
Federal Wage System pay is set by local prevailing wage surveys, so it moves with the wage area rather than a national table.
Wage Grade rates are published per wage area rather than nationally, so the number that matters is the one for the installation you are applying to.
Source: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service wage schedules.
Qualification requirements
OPM's standard for WG-5704, as written.
Forklift Operating
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard is to be used for grading nonsupervisory jobs which involve the operation of electric, diesel, or gasoline powered fork lift trucks to move, stack and unstack, and load and unload materials in and about warehouses, storage areas, loading docks, and on and off vehicles, etc. (See Digest Vol. 15 for guidance on proper grading of positions in which work covered by this series is combined with work typical of another series and grade level.)
Physical Effort
is used in operating hand and foot controls while driving, turning, starting, and stopping the fork lift truck and raising, lowering, and tilting the loads being moved. Strain is caused by the vibration of the fork lift truck.
What this means if you served
- Write the duties, not the billet. OPM credits military experience on the work performed, and does not use rank or pay to judge specialized experience.
- Put the training and certifications you earned in service on the page. They count here.
- Claim your veterans preference on the application. It is not applied for you.
- No positive education requirement here, so qualifying experience can stand in for the education.
How to qualify for WG-5704
1Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
2Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
3Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
4Build Your Federal Resume
Two pages, the same USAJOBS limit that has applied since 27 September 2025. Lead with hands-on trade experience: the tools and equipment you ran, safety training, the projects you finished, and hours worked per week.
5Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
Military jobs that map to this series
Logistics Vehicle System Operator
WG-5704 Forklift Operating is a strong adjacent match for 3533s who ran material-handling or container operations. Federal depots and motor pools often hire across both 5703 and 5704.
Skills that carry over: Material handling, Forklift and load operation, Yard and warehouse operations, Load safety.
Usually opens at: WG-4, WG-5, WG-6.
Your record can qualify you even when your code is not on this list. The crosswalk is a starting point, not the gate.
Typical duties
- Perform forklift operating tasks as assigned
- Follow safety procedures and regulations
- Maintain and operate tools and equipment
- Complete work orders and documentation
- Coordinate with team members and supervisors
Key competencies
Ability to follow safety procedures and regulations
Knowledge of tools and equipment for the trade
Skill in performing physical tasks requiring manual dexterity
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to read and interpret instructions and procedures
Words the announcement will use
Use the ones your record actually supports. A rater is matching your experience against the specialized experience statement, and a keyword with nothing behind it does not survive that.
Questions about WG-5704
What is a federal Forklift Operator?
A federal Forklift Operator (WG-5704) operates electric, diesel, or gasoline powered fork lift trucks to move, stack, and load/unload materials in warehouses, storage areas, loading docks, and on/off vehicles at federal facilities.
How much does a federal Forklift Operator make?
Federal Forklift Operators (WG-5704) are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Typical wages range $17-$28 per hour depending on locality and skill level. Annual earnings range $35,000-$58,000.
What are the requirements for WG-5704 positions?
WG-5704 requires forklift operation certification and demonstrated safe operation. Qualifications include ability to maneuver in confined spaces, stack materials at various heights, load/unload vehicles safely, and maintain forklift equipment.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-5704?
Yes, military warehouse and logistics experience directly qualifies. MOSs involving supply operations, warehouse work, or material handling typically include forklift training. Document your forklift certification and safe operation history.
What is the career progression for Forklift Operating?
Forklift Operators progress through skill levels based on equipment variety and complexity. Career paths include warehouse supervisor, supply technician (GS-2005), or transition to other material handling equipment like cranes or heavy equipment.
How do I apply for WG-5704 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Forklift Operator' or 'Materials Handler' or series '5704.' Positions exist at warehouses, depots, and distribution centers. Maintain current forklift certification and highlight your safe operation record. Veterans receive preference.
Ready to apply for WG-5704?
A rater matches your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement, inside two pages. BMR writes that shape from your own experience: competency headers, real scope, hours per week, and the supervisor detail the rater checks.