Have you ever wondered what it takes to operate those impressive machines you see on construction sites, the ones that can lift materials to exactly where they are needed? Working as a telehandler might be the career path you're looking for. Let's explore what this role involves and how you can get started.
What Does Working as a Telehandler Involve?
Think of a telehandler as a skilled conductor, orchestrating the movement of materials across busy construction sites, farms and industrial facilities. You'll operate specialist lifting equipment that brings together the best features of forklifts and cranes. The telescopic arm - the defining feature of your machine - extends both forwards and upwards, letting you reach spots that standard forklifts simply can't access.
A Day in the Life of a Telehandler
As a Telehandler operator, you’d be starting each morning with a thorough check of your machine. Much like a pilot's pre-flight inspection, you'll examine everything from fluid levels to tyre conditions before your day begins.
Once you're satisfied with the safety checks, you might find yourself:
Moving steel beams to the fourth floor of a new office building,
Carefully positioning pallets of bricks for the bricklaying team.
Unloading delivery vehicles and distributing materials across the site.
Recording all material movements in your digital logbook
Each task requires careful planning and excellent teamwork. You'll work closely with groundworkers and other construction professionals, becoming an integral part of the site's daily operations.
Required Qualifications and Training
Breaking into the telehandler profession requires specific certifications, with the Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) card being your golden ticket. The training typically spans 3-5 days, combining classroom learning with hands-on practice.
The investment for initial CPCS training ranges from £750-£1000, but here's the good news: many employers will cover this cost for promising candidates. This means you can focus on learning and developing your skills without the financial pressure.
Your Earning Potential
According to recent Glassdoor data, telehandler operators earn an average of £28,000 per year. Starting positions offer around £24,000, while experienced operators can take home upwards of £33,000 annually.
Your earnings will grow with your expertise. Construction sector roles often pay more due to project complexity, and additional qualifications can boost your value further.
The Working Environment
As a telehandler, your office is the great outdoors. You'll work in all weather conditions, which adds variety to your role but also requires resilience. Standard hours run Monday to Friday, though weekend work might crop up for urgent projects.
The cab of your telehandler becomes your command centre, requiring good eyesight and spatial awareness for safe operation. While the role demands physical stamina, modern machines offer comfortable, well-designed operating environments.
Building Your Career
Many telehandler operators find numerous paths for career growth. You might choose to:
Take on additional plant operation qualifications
Step into supervisory roles
Share your expertise as a training instructor
Progress into site management
The construction industry continues to grow, with major infrastructure projects across the UK creating steady demand for skilled operators. New work output is forecasted to increase by 21% between now and 2029, so the demand for telehandlers should also increase along with this.
Is This Role Right for You?
You'll likely thrive as a telehandler if you:
Take pride in precise, careful work
Communicate well with different team members
Stay level-headed when managing complex lifts
Value safety and attention to detail
Taking Your First Steps
If this career path interests you, Select Recruitment Specialists can help you take your first steps. We work closely with construction companies across the UK who seek qualified telehandler operators, and we understand exactly what they're looking for in candidates.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, our specialist construction recruitment team would be pleased to discuss current opportunities. Send us your CV, and we'll help match you with positions that align with your skills and career goals.
Want to learn more about becoming a telehandler operator? Get in touch with our team today - we're here to support your journey into this rewarding profession.