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Container Forklift Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Riverside Logistics

Forklift Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Forklift Operators (Warehouse Associates) at Riverside Logistics work accurately in various ... Offload in bound customer products from ocean containers and other trailers, both manually and ...

OCEAN CONTAINER SOLUTIONS LLC

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Forklift Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Operating a forklift, winch, or other machinery used for transporting or shipping materials * Tracking inventory of incoming and outgoing items * Carefully handling and disposing of hazardous waste ...

OCEAN CONTAINER SOLUTIONS LLC

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Forklift Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Operating a forklift, winch, or other machinery used for transporting or shipping materials * Tracking inventory of incoming and outgoing items * Carefully handling and disposing of hazardous waste ...

OCEAN CONTAINER SOLUTIONS LLC

Forklift Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Operating a forklift, winch, or other machinery used for transporting or shipping materials * Tracking inventory of incoming and outgoing items * Carefully handling and disposing of hazardous waste ...

JT International S.A.

Seasonal Forklift Operator

Danville, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

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Tidewater Staffing

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Warehouse Clamp & Forklift Operator | 1st Shift

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Warehouse Forklift / Clamp Operator Pay Range: $20+ per hour (based on experience) Plus Benefits ... Safely load and unload containers, railcars, dry vans, and flatbed trailers. * Transport, stage ...

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Container Forklift Operator information

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How much do container forklift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for container forklift operator in Virginia is $17.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a container forklift operator?

Container forklift operators are skilled workers responsible for operating specialized forklifts designed to lift and move shipping containers. They play a critical role in ports, warehouses, and distribution centers by safely transporting large, heavy containers between trucks, ships, or storage areas. Operators must be knowledgeable about equipment safety protocols, load balancing, and efficient stacking techniques. Proper training and certification are typically required to ensure safe and effective operation of these powerful machines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a container forklift operator?

To thrive as a Container Forklift Operator, you need a valid forklift operator certification, strong spatial awareness, and experience handling heavy machinery safely. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), radio communication devices, and various forklift models is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for minimizing errors and ensuring smooth operations. These skills are vital to maintain safety standards, prevent damage, and support efficient cargo handling in busy logistics environments.

What are some of the common challenges faced by container forklift operators and how can they be addressed?

Container Forklift Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces in busy shipping yards, handling oversized or unbalanced loads, and working in varying weather conditions. To address these, operators are trained extensively in equipment safety, load assessment, and site-specific protocols. Effective communication with ground staff and other operators is essential to ensure smooth coordination and prevent accidents. Regular maintenance checks on forklifts also help reduce the risk of mechanical failures, contributing to a safer and more efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Container Forklift Operator vs Reach Truck Operator?

AspectContainer Forklift OperatorReach Truck Operator
CertificationsForklift certification, OSHA complianceForklift certification, OSHA compliance
Work EnvironmentShipping yards, ports, warehouses handling containersWarehouses, distribution centers with high shelving
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, freight handlingWarehousing, retail distribution

Container Forklift Operators primarily handle large containers in ports and shipping yards, focusing on loading and unloading containers. Reach Truck Operators work mainly inside warehouses, stacking and retrieving goods at high levels. Both roles require forklift certification and are essential in logistics and warehousing industries, but they differ in work environment and specific tasks.

How much do container forklift operators make?

Container forklift operators in Colorado typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific employer. The average annual salary ranges from approximately $31,000 to $52,000. Skilled operators with certifications such as OSHA forklift training may command higher wages.

What are popular job titles related to Container Forklift Operator jobs in Virginia?

For Container Forklift Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Container Forklift Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Container Forklift Operator jobs in Virginia are:

Container Forklift Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Container Forklift Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,779 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Riverside Logistics

Henrico, VA • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Forklift Operators (Warehouse Associates) at Riverside Logistics work accurately in various departments and with fellow associates within the Warehouse organization. Unload, receive, put away, maintain, pick and ship customer products and materials.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Offload in bound customer products from ocean containers and other trailers, both manually and using material handling equipment.
  • Sort, segregate and palletize products according to provided documentation and instructions. (Lot numbers, catalogue or item numbers and pallet configuration).
  • Accurately counts inbound product, and uses packing slip and/or advance ship notification (ASN) to verify quantities, lot number, and item numbers and ensure that the receipt is correct.
  • Accurately locates inbound product into available rack locations and records quantities and locations on a Put Away Tally.
  • Replenishes pick locations as needed.
  • Performs inventory location changes to maximize warehouse space.
  • Performs inventory maintenance and cycle counting.
  • Accurately picks product from rack or floor locations according to the pick ticket.
  • Processes customer orders and prepares and stages customer product for shipping.
  • Using material handling equipment; load and unload customer product onto and from trailers and/or rail cars.
  • Maintains appearance of rack areas to ensure cleanliness and safety.
  • Combines parts and packages completed assembly according to instructions.
  • Places emphasis on accuracy, quality and productivity in a detail oriented environment.
  • Immediately informs Team Leaders and Supervisors of any discrepancies, issues or other problems.
  • Operates material handling equipment in a safe manner to receive and store products.
  • Maintains excellent attendance to ensure duties are performed.
  • Maintains all work areas in a neat and orderly manner at all times.
Requirements
  • High school or equivalent education
  • Minimum One year experience in warehouse operations
  • Minimum One year experience operating forklifts of various types and pallet jacks
  • Successfully complete OSHA lift truck certification with the Company's training time line
  • Maintains OSHA lift truck Certification once certified
  • Works in environment where temperature varies with outside temperature
  • Be able to follow written and verbal instruction in English
  • Must be able to lift or move items weighing 50 pounds

Salary Description
$17-22/hour

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