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Container Handler Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Northwest Industrial Staffing, Inc

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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 ...

TransPak

Material Handler

Kent, WA · On-site

$19/hr

... or containers, by hand or using hand trucks, pallet jacks, or other equipment. Loading and ... Efficiently perform work according to standard operating procedures. * Work together with other ...

Stem Xpert

Warehouse/Yard Material Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$10/hr

Attaches identifying tags, or labels to material or packaging containers. * Stacks and assembles ... Must be a trained and certified forklift operator, with a current/valid license. * Ability to use ...

TransPak

Material Handler

Kent, WA · On-site

$19/hr

... or containers, by hand or using hand trucks, pallet jacks, or other equipment. Loading and ... Efficiently perform work according to standard operating procedures. * Work together with other ...

Keltia Design

Materials Handler - Aerospace 12/2018

Kent, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23.25/hr

Prepares and secures cartons, crates, pallets, and other containers for shipment of goods. * Stamps ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Global Technical Talent

Material Handler

Kent, WA · On-site

$28 - $31.37/hr

... operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment/forklifts. This includes understanding the ... Sorting and staging -- employee must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container ...

DP Professionals

Material Handler I

Kent, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23.25/hr

Must possess fundamental knowledge and skills in operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment ... Must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container while its identified and secure to ...

Clean Harbors

Material Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$26/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 ...

Clean Harbors

Material Handler

Seattle, WA

$26/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 ...

Safety-Kleen

Material Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$26/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 ...

Clean Harbors

Material Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$17.31 - $34.62/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 ...

CleanHarbors

Material Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$26/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 ...

System One

Material Handler I - A

Kent, WA · On-site

$35/hr

... operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment/forklifts. This includes understanding the ... Sorting and staging, employee must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container ...

System One

Material Handler I - A

Kent, WA · On-site

$35/hr

... operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment/forklifts. This includes understanding the ... Sorting and staging, employee must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container ...

System One

Material Handler I - A

Kent, WA · On-site

$35/hr

... operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment/forklifts. This includes understanding the ... Sorting and staging, employee must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container ...

System One

Material Handler I - A

Kent, WA · On-site

$35/hr

... operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment/forklifts. This includes understanding the ... Sorting and staging, employee must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container ...

System One Holdings, LLC

Material Handler I - A

Kent, WA · On-site

$35/hr

... operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment/forklifts. This includes understanding the ... Sorting and staging, employee must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container ...

System One

Material Handler I - A

Kent, WA · On-site

$35/hr

... operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment/forklifts. This includes understanding the ... Sorting and staging, employee must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container ...

System One Holdings, LLC

Material Handler I - A

Kent, WA · On-site

$35/hr

... operating heavy equipment, primarily PIT equipment/forklifts. This includes understanding the ... Sorting and staging, employee must be able to move packages/boxes/crates/any storage container ...

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All JobsContainer Handler Operator JobsContainer Handler Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA

Container Handler Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$11

$20

$27

How much do container handler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for container handler operator in Seattle, WA is $20.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a container handler operator?

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 as a container handler operator?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Container Handler Operator jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Container Handler Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Container Handler Operator jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Container Handler Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Container Handler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Container Handler Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,532 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Forklift Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA • On-site

Northwest Industrial Staffing, Inc
Human Resources Consulting Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Northwest Industrial Staffing, Incexternal

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Job Title: Container Forklift Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator

Compensation: $22.00 – $24.00 per hour
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Tacoma, WA

Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator for our high-volume warehouse facility in Tacoma, WA. In this role, you will be responsible for the safe movement, stacking, and organizing of shipping containers within our logistics yard and warehouse footprint.

Key Responsibilities

  • Container Handling: Safely transport, lift, and stack 20ft and 40ft shipping containers using forklifts, top-picks, or empty container handlers.
  • Logistics Coordination: Organize and stage containers to maximize warehouse yard efficiency, coordinating with local freight forwarders and drayage drivers.
  • Load & Unload: Transfer heavy containerized freight efficiently between ground storage, chassis, and flatbed trailers.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform mandatory daily pre-shift safety inspections on Hyster machinery and immediately report any mechanical issues.
  • Tacoma Port/Yard Safety: Adhere strictly to OSHA, WISHA (Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act), and company safety protocols in a fast-paced environment.

Required Qualifications

  • Experience: Minimum 2+ years of experience operating heavy industrial equipment or container handlers in a warehouse, rail yard, or port-adjacent terminal.
  • Equipment Expertise: Proven, hands-on experience operating high-capacity container handling machinery.
  • Certifications: Valid heavy forklift/container handler operator certification. TWIC card is a plus but not required.
  • Local Readiness: Ability to work reliably on-site at our Tacoma warehouse and adapt to changing Pacific Northwest weather conditions.

Company Description

Northwest Industrial Staffing (NWIS) was formed in January of 2012 and is located in downtown, Kent Washington. NWIS provides quality staffing solutions for organizations and businesses. NWIS is an equal opportunity employer and a drug free environment. We offer career opportunities with potential for advancement. Our staff is required to complete comprehensive training programs that include safety awareness, OSHA requirements, and Quality Assurance. We are dedicated to fulfilling all of our customers needs.

INTEGRITY:
NWIS maintains an unstinting commitment to honesty and openness in all of its activities. NWIS prides itself on the importance of follow-up and trust.

FRIENDLY:
NWIS values clients and candidates for their uniqueness. NWIS strives to make everyone feel like a part of the family.

PROFESSIONALISM:
NWIS treats its clients and candidates with respect and consideration while helping them with their professional needs.