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Cargo Handler Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler/Receiver

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Forest River, Inc., the Nation's largest manufacturer of Recreational Vehicles, Cargo Trailers, Transit Buses and Boats has an immediate opening. Responsibilities * Operate Forklift * Unload trucks

Forklift Materials Handler

Indianapolis, IN

$16.25 - $19/hr

Monday - Friday 5pm - 1:30am SUMMARY The Forklift Material Handler loads, unloads and moves ... Gathers data for preparing reports. • Warehouses and stores inbound and outbound cargo awaiting ...

Material Handler Operator II

Plainfield, IN · On-site

$15.93 - $19.91/hr

Execute various manual labor functions such as picking inventory, counting cargo, product and material and hand staging and loading goods; use manual equipment such as hand truck or pallet jack.

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Cargo Handler information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do cargo handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo handler in Indiana is $18.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are cargo handlers?

Cargo handlers are professionals responsible for loading, unloading, and moving goods and materials in airports, warehouses, shipping docks, and other transportation hubs. They ensure that cargo is properly sorted, labeled, secured, and handled according to safety regulations and company procedures. Cargo handlers often use machinery like forklifts or conveyor belts and may be required to lift heavy items manually. Their role is crucial in maintaining the efficiency and safety of goods movement in the logistics and transportation industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cargo Handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cargo Handler, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, pallet jacks, forklifts, and sometimes OSHA certification are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for managing tight schedules and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are essential for efficiently moving goods, maintaining accurate records, and upholding workplace safety standards.

What is the difference between Cargo Handler vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectCargo HandlerWarehouse Worker
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, forklift certificationOften requires OSHA safety training, forklift certification
Work EnvironmentAirports, shipping docks, freight terminalsWarehouses, distribution centers, storage facilities
Job DutiesLoading/unloading cargo, securing freight, operating forkliftsPicking, packing, organizing inventory, operating equipment

Both Cargo Handlers and Warehouse Workers require safety certifications and often operate similar equipment. However, Cargo Handlers focus on managing freight at transportation hubs, while Warehouse Workers handle inventory within storage facilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and certifications.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Cargo handlers typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like executive positions, high-level consultants, or certain skilled trades with significant experience. Most cargo handling jobs pay hourly wages and do not reach that daily income level without additional bonuses or overtime.

What is the highest paying job on a cargo ship?

The highest paying job on a cargo ship is typically the chief engineer, who is responsible for the vessel's machinery and systems. This role requires extensive technical skills, certifications, and experience, and often offers the highest salary among crew members. Other high-paying positions include the captain or master, who oversees the entire ship's operations and safety.

What is the highest paying logistics job?

In logistics, roles such as supply chain managers, logistics directors, and operations managers tend to have the highest salaries. These positions require extensive experience, strategic planning skills, and often involve overseeing large teams and complex supply networks.

What are some common challenges Cargo Handlers face on the job and how can they be managed?

Cargo Handlers often encounter challenges such as handling heavy or awkward loads, working in varying weather conditions, and meeting tight deadlines for shipments. To manage these, it is important to use proper lifting techniques and equipment, follow safety protocols, and maintain clear communication with team members and supervisors. Staying organized and being adaptable to changing schedules or shipment priorities can also help Cargo Handlers navigate the fast-paced work environment successfully.

How to become a cargo handler?

To become a cargo handler, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check. On-the-job training is common, and physical strength and the ability to operate equipment like forklifts are important skills. Some positions may require certification in safety procedures or equipment operation.
What are popular job titles related to Cargo Handler jobs in Indiana? For Cargo Handler jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Cargo Handler jobs in IN? For Cargo Handler jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Material Handler/Receiver

Material Handler/Receiver

Forest River, Inc.

Elkhart, IN • On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Forest River rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

362nd of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Forest River, Inc., the Nation's largest manufacturer of Recreational Vehicles, Cargo Trailers, Transit Buses and Boats has an immediate opening.
Responsibilities
  • Operate Forklift
  • Unload trucks
  • Organize material
Qualifications
  • Experience driving a forklift
  • Organizational skills
  • Ability to read and communicate well
Forest River offers a stable work environment that is fast paced. Our employees enjoy a highly competitive Wage and Benefit Package. We are looking for dedicated individuals with experience in the Industry as well as other Manufacturing Processes.

What Forest River employees say

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Forest River logo

About Forest River

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Forest River, Inc. your needs, interests, budget, and lifestyle are at the forefront of everything we do. This affects every step from design, to the Manufacturing floor and on to you our Customer. Whatever your need Recreation, Transportation or Cargo Hauling . We Strive to bring quality products within reach of everyone. It’s not just a slogan: Customer Satisfaction is Our #1 Priority. Our large production capacity enables us to fill our customers' orders promptly without cutting corners or rushing through production procedures. This ensures that each Forest River product is conscientiously built and undergoes thorough, detailed inspection before it's shipped to the customer. This guarantees that every family who desires quality recreation will find a Forest River product that serves their Needs, Interests, Budget, and Lifestyle.

Industry

Motor vehicle manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Elkhart, IN, US

Year founded

1996

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