NOC Version: NOC 2021 Version 1.0
Position Summary for NOC 75101 – Material Handlers (Forklift Operators)
Material handlers (NOC 75101), also known as the Forklift Operator NOC code, are the backbone of Canada’s supply chains, playing a crucial role in moving, loading, and unloading goods across warehouses, factories, transportation hubs, and distribution centers. These workers handle materials manually or with equipment like forklifts, industrial trucks, conveyors, and winches.
Employed across a wide range of industries—including retail, wholesale, storage, manufacturing, and transportation—material handlers keep operations flowing by ensuring goods are placed, transferred, and retrieved safely and efficiently. From unloading a delivery truck at a warehouse to transporting goods to shipping docks or storage areas, this role is essential in both local and national logistics systems.
If you’re looking to search for work that is physical, fast-paced, and central to modern logistics, this occupation offers an accessible entry point with consistent demand across Canada. Material handling may serve as a stepping stone to more specialized roles in the supply chain and warehousing industries, making it ideal for those beginning their career journey or transitioning into trades and transport.
The job often requires working with both hand tools and powered equipment to load and relocate inventory. Employers typically look for candidates who meet basic physical and safety requirements and can work efficiently in high-volume environments. This occupation is hands-on, dependable, and critical to keeping the flow of goods uninterrupted—making it a strong option for individuals seeking stable, essential work.
Job Titles Specific to NOC 75101 in Canada
Forklift Truck Operator
Warehouse Worker / Warehouseman / Warehousewoman
Freight Handler (excluding air transport)
Furniture Mover
Conveyor Console Operator
Material Handler
Storage Worker – Material Handling
Lumber Piler – Building Supplies
Truck Loader
Railway Car Loader
Coal Handler
Bin Filler
Stockpiler
Grain Elevator Operator (included)
Main Responsibilities Common for NOC 75101 in Canada
Manual and Equipment-Assisted Handling
Load, unload, and move materials by hand or using material handling equipment like forklifts, winches, and conveyors.Furniture and Appliance Moving
Transport items such as appliances or furniture onto and off moving trucks or vans.Operation of Industrial Vehicles
Drive and operate equipment like forklifts, tractors, loaders, or conveyors to transport goods and position materials for storage or shipping.Bulk and Liquid Material Transfer
Connect hoses and operate pumps or dump mechanisms to move liquids (e.g., petroleum, chemicals) or bulk goods like coal, grain, or ore.Sorting, Packing, and Inventory
Count, weigh, sort, unpack, and pack materials. May assist with warehouse inventory, filling orders, and checking item conditions.Environmental Adaptability
Some roles require working in outdoor or varied weather conditions and may include irregular hours or night shifts.
Job Requirements for NOC 75101 in Canada
Education: Some secondary school education may be required.
Training: On-the-job training is typically provided.
Skills Needed:
Physical strength and stamina
Ability to follow safety protocols and operational procedures
Coordination and attention to detail
Certifications:
Forklift operator certification may be required by certain employers.
Safety certifications (e.g., WHMIS) are often considered assets
Median Hourly Wages by Provinces
| Province/Territory | Median Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Canada (National) | $21.00 |
| Alberta | $22.50 |
| British Columbia | $21.50 |
| Manitoba | $19.00 |
| New Brunswick | $18.00 |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | $20.00 |
| Nova Scotia | $18.00 |
| Ontario | $21.00 |
| Quebec | $21.00 |
| Saskatchewan | $22.00 |
| Yukon / Territories | $26.00 |
Note: Wage estimates are based on publicly available data and may vary depending on region, experience, qualifications, and employer. These figures are intended as general guidelines and do not guarantee specific earnings.
Utilizing Government Resources
Professionals working under NOC 75101 can use and benefit from several official resources to help improve skills, workplace safety, and employment readiness:
Online:
Visit the National Occupational Classification to explore job descriptions, employment trends, and training info.
Explore Job Bank Canada for openings and wage insights by province.
Offline:
Enroll in forklift certification programs offered by colleges, unions, and private training providers.
Participate in warehouse and materials handling safety workshops.
Certification Tip:
Although certification isn’t mandatory nationwide, employers often look for forklift operation credentials, especially in warehouse or distribution roles.
Final Word
As a foundational role in supply chain operations, NOC 75101 material handler jobs offer stability, hands-on experience, and opportunities to grow into specialized or supervisory positions. Whether you’re just entering the workforce or looking for reliable employment in the transport or manufacturing sectors, material handling is a respected and essential career path in Canada’s economy.
