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Container Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FreezPak Logistics

Container Lead

Fall River, MA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Lead and train a team of container handlers and logistics personnel to maintain high performance and safety standards. What You Bring to the Pak * Experience: * Minimum of 2-3 years of warehouse ...

Thunderbird LLC.

Material Handler

Elgin, IL

$18 - $20/hr

Moves materials and containers from storage or work sites to designated areas to meet requirements ... Material Handler Required Experience * Ability to read, analyze and interpret documents such as ...

HOOD CONTAINER CORPORATION

Material Handler

Sumter, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Qualified Sit-Down Forklift Operator/Material Handler to assist in coordinating the day-to-day ... Hood Container is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive ...

Thunderbird

Material Handler

Carol Stream, IL

$18 - $20/hr

Moves materials and containers from storage or work sites to designated areas to meet requirements ... Material Handler Required Experience * Ability to read, analyze and interpret documents such as ...

Thunderbird Metals

Material Handler

Elgin, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Moves materials and containers from storage or work sites to designated areas to meet requirements ... Material Handler Required Experience * Ability to read, analyze and interpret documents such as ...

HOOD CONTAINER CORPORATION

Material Handler

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Qualified Sit-Down Forklift Operator/Material Handler to assist in coordinating the day-to-day ... Hood Container is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive ...

Grand Traverse Container

Material Handler

Traverse City, MI

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Grand Traverse Container has been manufacturing custom corrugated packaging since 1995. Over the ... We are looking for a 1st shift and 2nd shift Material Handler (Hi-lo operator) for our Traverse ...

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How much do container handler jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for container handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Container Handler, you need physical strength, spatial awareness, and familiarity with warehouse operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Operation of forklifts, cranes, and container tracking systems typically requires relevant certifications such as OSHA forklift certification. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are crucial soft skills for managing inventory and ensuring safety. These competencies are vital for maintaining efficient logistics, minimizing workplace accidents, and ensuring the smooth flow of goods.

What are some typical challenges faced by Container Handlers and how can they be managed on the job?

Container Handlers often work in fast-paced environments where efficiency and safety are top priorities. Common challenges include operating heavy machinery in tight spaces, managing time pressures during peak shipping periods, and ensuring containers are properly loaded and secured to prevent damage. Effective communication with team members and attention to safety protocols are essential to overcome these challenges. Ongoing training and adherence to best practices help Container Handlers perform their duties safely and effectively.

What are container handlers?

Container handlers are specialized equipment operators or workers responsible for moving, loading, unloading, and stacking shipping containers in ports, warehouses, and freight terminals. They use heavy machinery such as container forklifts, reach stackers, or cranes to safely and efficiently handle containers. Container handlers play a key role in logistics and supply chain operations, ensuring containers are managed without damage and according to safety regulations.

What is the difference between Container Handler vs Forklift Operator?

AspectContainer HandlerForklift Operator
CredentialsTypically requires OSHA certification and specialized training for handling containersRequires forklift certification and OSHA training
Work EnvironmentOperates mainly in ports, shipping yards, and container terminalsWorks in warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers
Industry UsagePrimarily used in shipping, logistics, and maritime industriesCommon in warehousing, retail, and manufacturing sectors

Container handlers and forklift operators both require OSHA certification and work in logistics environments. However, container handlers are specialized for port and shipping yard operations, handling large containers, while forklift operators typically work in warehouses and factories managing smaller loads. The roles overlap in certification needs but differ significantly in work setting and equipment used.

More about Container Handler jobs
What cities are hiring for Container Handler jobs? Cities with the most Container Handler job openings:
What states have the most Container Handler jobs? States with the most job openings for Container Handler jobs include:
Container Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Container Handler job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.
Top Pick Operator/ Lift Operator

Top Pick Operator/ Lift Operator

King Ocean Services

Fort Lauderdale, FL

$16.75 - $19/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Top Pick Operator
The Top Pick Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a top pick container handler used to lift, stack, move, and position shipping containers within the terminal yard. This role supports daily terminal operations by ensuring containers are properly handled, stacked, and transported in accordance with operational procedures and safety standards. The operator must maintain situational awareness while working in a high-traffic port environment and adhere to all company safety policies and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Operation
  • Operate a top pick container handler to lift, move, stack, and transport containers within the terminal yard.
  • Safely handle both loaded and empty containers in designated stacking areas and operational zones.
  • Position containers for loading and unloading operations as directed by supervisors or dispatch.
  • Conduct equipment maneuvers in tight spaces while maintaining awareness of surrounding personnel, vehicles, and cargo.
Safety & Compliance
  • Follow all Sun Terminal safety policies, OSHA regulations, and terminal operating procedures.
  • Perform pre-shift and post-shift inspections of equipment and report any mechanical issues or safety concerns immediately.
  • Maintain proper speed, load handling practices, and safe stacking procedures at all times.
  • Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) while operating equipment and working in the yard.
Operational Support
  • Assist with container yard organization to ensure efficient cargo flow.
  • Communicate with dispatchers, supervisors, and other equipment operators to coordinate container movements.
  • Support vessel operations, truck gate activities, and yard logistics as needed.
  • Maintain accurate operational awareness to prevent damage to containers, equipment, or property.
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Equipment Care
  • Maintain cleanliness and proper care of assigned equipment.
  • Report equipment malfunctions, maintenance needs, or unsafe conditions to the maintenance department or supervisor.
Other Duties
This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the responsibilities and expectations for this position. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the role. The scope of the position may evolve or change based on organizational needs, and management reserves the right to modify duties at any time, with or without prior notice. This document does not create a contract of employment, either express or implied.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Prior experience operating heavy equipment such as top pick container handlers, reach stackers, forklifts, or similar port equipment preferred.
  • Experience in terminal, port, container yard, warehouse, or logistics operations is strongly preferred.
Skills & Competencies
  • Strong knowledge of heavy equipment safety procedures.
  • Ability to operate equipment with precision in a fast-paced environment.
  • Good communication skills and ability to follow operational instructions.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a high-traffic industrial environment.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit and operate heavy machinery for extended periods.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to climb in and out of equipment safely.
  • Good vision, depth perception, and hand-eye coordination.
Work Environment
  • Outdoor container yard and terminal operations environment.
  • Exposure to moving equipment, cargo operations, and varying weather conditions.
  • Shift work may be required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on operational needs.
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Supervisory Responsibility
  • This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment
This position works in a port/terminal setting, with ample outdoor exposure during the workday. This role routinely stands for prolonged periods of time and performs other physical activities as needed. Position requires work outdoors in hot/humid, cold, and other inclement weather conditions depending on the time of year. This role randomly uses standard warehouse equipment such as hand trucks, box cutters and tape dispensers.
Position Type and Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work vary depending on the company's needs.
Additional Eligibility Qualifications
Applicants need to be able to obtain a Ports ID and a TWIC card.
Work Authorization/Security Clearance
Employee must be authorized to work in the United States.
AAP/EEO Statement
Sun Terminals provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and employees are treated during employment without regard to any of these characteristics.
Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

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