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Container Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Northwest Industrial Staffing, Inc

Be Seen First

Forklift Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Container Handling: Safely transport, lift, and stack 20ft and 40ft shipping containers using f orklifts , top-picks, or empty container handlers. * Logistics Coordination: Organize and stage ...

Northwest Industrial Staffing, Inc

Be Seen First

Forklift Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Container Handling: Safely transport, lift, and stack 20ft and 40ft shipping containers using f orklifts , top-picks, or empty container handlers. * Logistics Coordination: Organize and stage ...

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 ...

KBR

MCPP: Heavy Equipment Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

... and container handler operations. Provides technical assistance, guidance, or training to lower-level operators and assists higher level operators. Performs other tasks as assigned. Basic ...

Hood Container Corporation

Material Handler

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Qualified Sit-Down Forklift Operator/Material Handler to assist in coordinating the day-to-day ... Why You'll Love Working at Hood Container * Competitive Pay & Benefits: www.hoodcontainer.com ...

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Container Handler information

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$9

$17

$24

How much do container handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 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 is a container handler?

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 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 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.

How do container handlers work?

Container handlers operate heavy machinery such as cranes, reach stackers, or forklifts to load, unload, and move shipping containers at ports and terminals. They use specialized controls and safety protocols to lift containers from ships, trucks, or trains and place them accurately in designated areas, often requiring certifications and knowledge of load limits. Their work environment demands precision, coordination, and adherence to safety standards.
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What states have the most Container Handler jobs?

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Container Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Container Handler job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.

Container Handler Operator (North Yard)

Houston, TX

Jacintoport International
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Jacintoport Internationalexternal

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Starting rate: $28 per hour
Long-term employment with opportunities for growth.
We offer excellent benefits including:
  • 401(K) Retirement Saving Plan w/ Employer Match
    Medical, Dental & Vision insurance
    Tuition Reimbursement
    Life Insurance
    Supplemental Medical Coverage
    Paid Time Off
    Parental Leave
    Paid Holidays
    Employee Assistance Program
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for moving different commodities, utilizing heavy equipment, and performing a variety of physical & labor-intensive tasks within the terminal. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
GEOGRAPHIC REGION:
Please note applications out of the geographic region for position applied will not be considered.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
  • Must have one (1) year experience operating a Top Loader and/or Empty Handler
  • Must have one (1) year experience driving one or more of the following heavy equipment: mule jockey, tractor trailer, 52K Forklift
  • A valid driver's license with clean driving record.
  • Must be able to efficiently maneuver the selected heavy equipment during the practice exam.
  • Must be able to successfully complete on the job training to drive other heavy equipment such as 9K, 30K/52K Forklift, Toploader/Empty Handler within the first year of employment.
  • Must be able to handle safely and efficiently heavy containerized, palletized, or loose cargoes in a high volume, fast paced environment
  • Must possess previous experience performing a variety of physical & labor-intensive tasks
  • Must be able to obtain HAZMAT certification within 30 days of start date
  • Must be able to obtain Transportation Worker's Identification Credential (TWIC) within 90 days of start date
  • Must have the ability to read, write, and speak Basic English
  • Must be able to accurately process alpha/numeric information
  • Must have the ability to function effectively in a fast paced, team oriented work environment
  • Must have the ability to work independently with limited supervision and strong initiative
  • Must have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees
  • Must have the ability to think logically, follow procedures, instructions and make sound decisions
  • Must be able to work (flexible hours) extended hours including nights, overtime, weekends and holidays
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Primary
  • Perform all functions in accordance with operation and safety guidelines
  • Perform routine inspection on assigned equipment; refer defects or repairs to mechanic personnel
  • Maintain constant communication with Foreman and co-workers to ensure that the correct load is moved at the right time and to the correct location
  • Stack empty and full containers in an orderly and safe manner in the locations indicated by foreman
  • Inspect and segregate Hazardous containers within the Terminal Yard
  • Utilize terminal personal computer, installed inside Top Loader, and hand-held computer to enter and scan container number
  • Operate yard truck, 9K forklift, 30K forklift, 52K forklift, Toploader/Empty Handler to properly transport containers, general cargo, including pipeand break bulk, within a specific time-frame from one location to another with the proper and safe care to avoid any damages or accidents
  • Operate 9K, 30K, and 52K forklift to load and discharge cargo from and to yard trucks
  • Perform pre-shift mechanical inspection of assigned heavy equipment and immediately report any deficiencies to the Foreman, Terminal Superintendent and Mechanic Shop Supervisor
  • Operate yard truck to pull, transport, load, and discharge break bulk or empty and loaded containers using standard equipment such as flatbed trailers, pipe trailers, and mafis.
  • Couple and uncouple trailers by changing trailer jack positions, connecting or disconnecting air and electrical lines
  • Maneuver trucks into loading or unloading positions, following signals from loading crew and checking that vehicle and loading equipment are properly positioned
  • Maintain constant communication with Foreman and co-workers to ensure that the correct load is moved at the right time and to the correct location
  • Inform Foreman immediately if detected any damages and/or spoiled cargo before loading or unloading
  • Perform general terminal duties depending on business volume and needs
  • Maintain a clean work area, free of debris or safety hazards and awareness of surroundings (i.e. vehicles, people checking equipment, etc.) at all times
  • May maintain logs of loads and submit accurate daily shift activity report as requested by supervisor(s)
Secondary
  • Perform other related tasks as assigned
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Subject to physical and/or DOT screening is required along with other tests as applicable
  • The employee is continuously required to sit (while driving), grasp and exercise eye-hand coordination and eye-hand-foot coordination.
  • The employee is frequently required to grasp, exercise repetitive wrist motion, and finger movement
  • The employee is frequently required to talk and hear
  • The employee is frequently required to climb, balance, bend forward, squat, kneel, crawl, twist, pinch and reach overhead
  • The employee is frequently required to stand, walk and exercise repetitive foot motion
  • The employee is occasionally required to lift, carry, push and pull up to 110 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Report safety hazards
  • Immediately report incidents involving injury, illness, or property damage
  • Wear appropriate PPE as instructed by immediate supervisor and/or safety personnel
  • Comply with all company safety policies, procedures, and rules
  • Refuse any unsafe task or operation
  • Participate in safety meetings and training
  • Be constantly aware of their personal safety and that of their coworkers
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:
Receives direct supervision from the Terminal Superintendent & Walking Foremen and indirect supervision form the Terminal Operations Manager. Does not exercise supervision over any other position.
CONDITIONS:
  • Outdoors, exposure to all possible environmental factors such as extreme heat, rain, wind, and high humidity during day and night shifts
  • The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts
  • The employee is continuously exposed to dust, fumes, and airborne particles
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high
  • Moderate vibration when operating equipment
DISCLAIMER:
  • We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
  • If an applicant with a disability is unable or limited in their ability to use or access our online application center as a result of their disability, they can request reasonable accommodations by sending an email toaccommodations@seaboardmarine.com
  • The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
  • The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
Employment Type: Full-Time

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