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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.)
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-5704
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.)
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.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal forklift operating position
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Typical grades for Federal Wage System positions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.