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Container Handler Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Elgin, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Ensures all waste and containers are in acceptable shipping condition and organized for transport ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

3rd Shift Bakery Material Handler

Manteno, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Packing and Palletizing: * Assist in packing products into boxes, trays, or containers following ... Production Support: * Assist machine operators by manually providing materials, removing finished ...

Material Handler 1st Shift

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$15.37 - $23.06/hr

... manually or by operating electric powered lifts. Pay Range starting at $17.50 an hour ... containers, and/or mark them with identifying information • Stack or assemble materials into ...

... manually or by operating electric powered lifts. Pay Range starting at $17.50 an hour ... containers, and/or mark them with identifying information • Stack or assemble materials into ...

Material Handler

West Chicago, IL

$17 - $20.75/hr

Inserts items into containers, using spacers, fillers, and protective padding. * Loads truck for Industrial Truck Operator. * Stacks or assembles materials into bundles and bands bundles together.

Forklift Operator

Romeoville, IL

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Forklift Operator / Material Handler This role operates forklifts and related material handling ... garbage containers, and sweeping floors daily before the end of each shift. * Notify the lead or ...

Material Handler

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Inserts items into containers, using spacers, fillers, and protective padding. * Loads truck for Industrial Truck Operator. * Stacks or assembles materials into bundles and bands bundles together.

Material Handler

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Inserts items into containers, using spacers, fillers, and protective padding. * Loads truck for Industrial Truck Operator. * Stacks or assembles materials into bundles and bands bundles together.

ILUS - Material Handler

Hobart, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Responsibilities Position Summary The Material Handler will perform receiving tasks, including ... Operating the floor sweeper and washer. * May perform other activities, such as opening containers ...

ILUS - Material Handler

Hobart, IN

$16.50 - $20/hr

Responsibilities Position Summary The Material Handler will perform receiving tasks, including ... Operating the floor sweeper and washer. * May perform other activities, such as opening containers ...

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Container Handler Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do container handler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for container handler operator in Chicago, IL is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical working conditions for a Container Handler Operator?

Container Handler Operators often work in port terminals, rail yards, or large warehouse environments, where they operate equipment both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Shifts may include early mornings, nights, or weekends, as cargo operations often run around the clock. The role involves staying alert, following strict safety protocols, and sometimes working at heights or in confined spaces. Teamwork is crucial, as operators must coordinate closely with logistics staff, supervisors, and other machine operators to ensure efficient and safe container movement.

What is a Container Handler Operator job?

A Container Handler Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, such as reach stackers, forklifts, or cranes, to load, unload, transport, and stack shipping containers in ports, warehouses, or freight yards. They ensure the safe and efficient movement of containers, following safety regulations and operational procedures. The role requires attention to detail, coordination, and knowledge of equipment handling to prevent damage and maintain workflow efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Container Handler Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Container Handler Operator, you need experience in operating heavy machinery such as forklifts or cranes, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a relevant equipment operator's license. Familiarity with computerized inventory systems and safety certifications, such as OSHA or HAZMAT training, are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills help operators coordinate efficiently with colleagues and maintain safety standards. These abilities ensure smooth cargo handling operations, minimize risks, and support the timely movement of goods within ports or warehouse facilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Container Handler Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Container Handler Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Container Handler Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,500 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Material Handler

Material Handler

Clean Harbors

Elgin, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Safety-Kleen in Elgin, IL is seeking a Warehouse Worker (Material Handler) to complete all assigned warehouse duties in a safe and responsible manner.  This role will work within all local, state, and federal rules and regulations; and follow all Safety-Kleen policies and procedures.
 
Safety-Kleen, a subsidiary of Clean Harbors is the leading provider of environmental, energy and industrial services throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.  Everywhere industry meets environment, Clean Harbors is on-site, providing premier environmental, energy and industrial services. We are solving tough problems through innovation and proven methodology - come be part of the solution with us.
 
Why work for Clean Harbors?
  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5!
  • Focus on maintaining sustainability and cleaning the Earth 
  • Offering $20/hr + OT + Perks
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment including 401K with Company match
  • Own part of the company with our Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career
  • Company paid training and tuition reimbursement
  • Attention to detail 
  • Follow specific instructions
  • Work with minimal supervision at times
  • Basic computer skills 
  • Work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Perform physical functions per job requirements
  • Successfully complete a background check, drug test, and physical, by position
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Forklift experience
  • Previous relevant experience
  • Experience with waste labels, manifests, and load sheets
Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.

Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.
 
Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.
 
Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.
 
*SK
  • Ensure Health and Safety is the number one priority by complying with all safe work practices, policies, and always acting in a safe manner
  • Unload containerized waste from the route trucks
  • Reload route trucks with supplies and equipment for next day's runs
  • Ensures all waste and containers are in acceptable shipping condition and organized for transport to recycle or distribution centers
  • Stock the warehouse with received materials
  • Prepare waste loads for shipment
  • Housekeeping in the branch (painting, picking up trash, sweeping, cleaning, straightening)
  • Empty and fill drums of solvent mineral spirits
  • Perform minor repairs on parts washers at the warehouse
  • Observe third party bulk liquid transfers
  • Assist with inventory count at warehouse
  • Follow all local, state (provincial) and federal compliance regulations and rules
  • Safely operate vehicles in accordance with U.S. DOT, local, state (provincial) and federal requirements
  • Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures
  • Observe all company environmental health and safety operating guidelines
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Clean Harbors logo

About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US