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Container Forklift Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Aurora, CO · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a forklift Operator ... You will be responsible for stacking containers that weigh up to 10,000 pounds up to 35 feet high.

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Hauppauge, NY · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a forklift Operator ... You will be responsible for stacking containers that weigh up to 10,000 pounds up to 35 feet high.

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Nashville, TN · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a forklift Operator ... You will be responsible for stacking containers that weigh up to 10,000 pounds up to 35 feet high.

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Dayton, NJ · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a forklift Operator ... You will be responsible for stacking containers that weigh up to 10,000 pounds up to 35 feet high.

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a forklift Operator ... You will be responsible for stacking containers that weigh up to 10,000 pounds up to 35 feet high.

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Romulus, MI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a forklift Operator ... You will be responsible for stacking containers that weigh up to 10,000 pounds up to 35 feet high.

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Romulus, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a forklift Operator ... You will be responsible for stacking containers that weigh up to 10,000 pounds up to 35 feet high.

Forklift Operator - Temporary

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Are you a skilled Forklift Operator with a passion for precision and safety? We're looking for ... We're your top choice for foam cups, classic red SOLO cups, and convenient take-out containers ...

Forklift Operator - Temporary

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Are you a skilled Forklift Operator with a passion for precision and safety? We're looking for ... We're your top choice for foam cups, classic red SOLO cups, and convenient take-out containers ...

Forklift Operator - Temporary

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Are you a skilled Forklift Operator with a passion for precision and safety? We're looking for ... We're your top choice for foam cups, classic red SOLO cups, and convenient take-out containers ...

Forklift Operator - Temporary

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Are you a skilled Forklift Operator with a passion for precision and safety? We're looking for ... We're your top choice for foam cups, classic red SOLO cups, and convenient take-out containers ...

Forklift Operator - Temporary

Dallas, TX

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Are you a skilled Forklift Operator with a passion for precision and safety? We're looking for ... We're your top choice for foam cups, classic red SOLO cups, and convenient take-out containers ...

Forklift Operator - Temporary

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Are you a skilled Forklift Operator with a passion for precision and safety? We're looking for ... We're your top choice for foam cups, classic red SOLO cups, and convenient take-out containers ...

Forklift Driver

Batavia, IL · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

DS Containers in Batavia, IL makes aerosol cans for a variety of industries. Our high speed ... Our drivers also use their forklift to dump scrap and supply the line with materials. 90% of the ...

Forklift

Hamden, OH · On-site

$13.25 - $15.50/hr

Receiving and shipping wood products (loading/unloading containers and flatbed trucks with forklift). * Pulling and loading orders * Inventory management (FIFO and cycle counts) * Warehouse Upkeeping ...

Forklift

Hamden, OH · On-site

$19.45/hr

Receiving and shipping wood products (loading/unloading containers and flatbed trucks with forklift). * Pulling and loading orders * Inventory management (FIFO and cycle counts) * Warehouse Upkeeping ...

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Container Forklift information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do container forklift jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for container forklift in the United States is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are shipping container forklifts called?

Shipping container forklifts are commonly called container handlers or reach stackers. These specialized forklifts are designed to lift and move shipping containers efficiently in ports and container yards, often featuring telescopic booms and heavy-duty tires. Operators typically require specific training and certifications to operate these machines safely.

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

Container forklift operators often encounter challenges such as maneuvering heavy loads in tight spaces, working in varying weather conditions, and maintaining safety while handling containers. To address these issues, operators should receive regular training on equipment handling and safety protocols. Effective communication with other team members, adherence to site guidelines, and routine equipment inspections are also vital for minimizing risks and ensuring smooth operations.

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

AspectContainer ForkliftReach Truck Operator
CertificationsForklift certification, OSHA complianceForklift certification, OSHA compliance
Work EnvironmentShipping yards, ports, warehouses handling large containersWarehouses, distribution centers with high racks
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, freight handlingWarehousing, retail distribution
Job FocusMoving large containers and heavy loads over long distancesStacking and retrieving pallets at high levels

Container Forklifts are specialized for handling large shipping containers in ports and freight yards, focusing on transporting heavy loads over longer distances. Reach Truck Operators primarily work inside warehouses, stacking pallets at high levels with precision. Both roles require forklift certification and are essential in logistics and warehousing industries, but they serve different operational needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Container Forklift Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Container Forklift Operator, you need a valid forklift operator license, strong knowledge of warehouse safety procedures, and experience handling heavy machinery. Familiarity with container management systems, warehouse inventory software, and various forklift types is typically required. Attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for safely coordinating in busy port or warehouse environments. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and accurate container movement, minimizing accidents and supporting smooth logistics operations.

Which type of forklift pays the most?

In the forklift operator field, specialized types such as rough terrain forklifts and container forklifts tend to offer higher wages due to their complexity and the environments in which they are used. Experienced operators with certifications in these equipment types often earn higher pay compared to standard forklifts. Skills, certifications, and the work environment influence salary levels for forklift operators.

What are container forklifts and what do they do?

Container forklifts, also known as container handlers or reach stackers, are heavy-duty industrial vehicles designed to lift, move, and stack shipping containers. They are commonly used in ports, shipping yards, rail terminals, and warehouses to efficiently handle large containers. These machines can move containers of various sizes, including the standard 20-foot and 40-foot units, and are equipped with specialized attachments to securely grip and transport heavy loads. Their ability to stack containers several units high makes them essential for optimizing storage space in busy shipping environments.

Which forklift license pays the most?

For a container forklift operator, the highest-paying licenses are typically for specialized certifications such as OSHA-compliant crane or heavy equipment operator licenses, which demonstrate advanced skills and can lead to higher wages. Experience, location, and the type of industry also influence pay rates for forklift operators with different certifications.

What is the highest paid forklift job?

The highest paid forklift jobs typically involve roles such as forklift supervisors, lead operators, or specialized equipment operators with certifications like OSHA or ANSI. These positions often require additional skills, experience, and sometimes working in hazardous or demanding environments, which can increase compensation. Salaries vary by industry and location but generally range from $50,000 to over $70,000 annually for advanced or supervisory roles.
More about Container Forklift jobs
What cities are hiring for Container Forklift jobs? Cities with the most Container Forklift job openings:
What states have the most Container Forklift jobs? States with the most job openings for Container Forklift jobs include:
Infographic showing various Container Forklift job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
FORKLIFT OPERATOR

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

1-800-PACK-RAT LLC

Aurora, CO • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


1-800-PACK-RAT rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 29 rated removal and storage companies


Job description


Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a forklift Operator, you are responsible for optimizing loads to ensure operational efficiency, scheduling vehicles for maintenance and repairs, and managing inventory & equipment, among other duties. You will need to move valuable items from one area to another within the warehouse. The position requires diligence and excellent hand-eye coordination.

Looking to hire a reliable and safety concious Forklift Operator to work in our warehouse. Our Forklifts are an 18 ton propane powered sit down lift. You will be responsible for stacking containers that weigh up to 10,000 pounds up to 35 feet high.

Essential functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

  • Perform assembly-type functions using hand and/or power tools (without supervision)
  • Ensure Quality Standards are met
  • Move materials using hand cart and or pallet jack
  • Basic computer skills
  • Pressure washing
  • Shop clean-up
  • Able to complete forklift training and safely operate a forklift
  • Perform all welding tasks with a variety of equipment
  • Weld plastic (roofs/panels)
  • Perform all cutting operations utilizing all standard shop equipment
  • Fabricate from a drawing and/or verbal instructions with limited supervision
  • Safely rig materials for lifting
  • Adhere to all safety policies and perform all tasks in a safe manner including adherence to OSHA regulations
  • Schedule maintenance on the forklift and local delivery trucks
  • Load containers & unload new container inventory being received
  • Scan and upload contracts, addendums, and other documents into IT servers
  • May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned
  • Be willing to take a background check/drug test

Benefits:

  • Home every day.
  • Competitive wages based on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • 401K with company match.

1-800-Pack-Rat, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law



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