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Container Handler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AGI

Material Handler

Oakland, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $23.25/hr

Job Title - Material Handler Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following ... May be required to load/unload US mail from/into airline containers * May be required to load ...

Mizuho OSI

Material Handler

Union City, CA

$21 - $24/hr

Job Summary Material Handler performs a variety of routine and standardized duties, and is assigned ... Package products into containers, using spacers, fillers and protective padding. * Build pallets ...

Mizuho OSI

Material Handler

Union City, CA

$21 - $24/hr

Job Summary Material Handler performs a variety of routine and standardized duties, and is assigned ... Package products into containers, using spacers, fillers and protective padding. * Build pallets ...

Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc.

Material Handler

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The Material Handler is responsible for the unloading, routing, and processing of incoming drums ... Verifies inbound containers and container labeling are consistent with inbound paperwork and all ...

Heritage-Crystal Clean LLC

Material Handler

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The Material Handler is responsible for the unloading, routing, and processing of incoming drums ... Verifies inbound containers and container labeling are consistent with inbound paperwork and all ...

Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc.

Material Handler

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The Material Handler is responsible for the unloading, routing, and processing of incoming drums ... Verifies inbound containers and container labeling are consistent with inbound paperwork and all ...

Avantor, Inc.

Material Handler

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$39K - $62K/yr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compared to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Avantor Inc.

Material Handler

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$39K - $62K/yr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compared to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

AMRESCO

Material Handler

Carpinteria, CA

$39K - $62K/yr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compared to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

FullSteam

Material Handler

San Dimas, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Material Handler Department: Packaging Line Pay Rate: $19/hr. Schedule: Monday - Sunday 9 AM- 5:30 ... container air-rinsing, labeling support, case packing, palletizing, finished goods staging ...

Stem Xpert

Warehouse/Yard Material Handler

Rialto, CA

$10/hr

Attaches identifying tags, or labels to material or packaging containers. * Stacks and assembles ... Warehouse/Yard Material Handler - Rental * Must lift objects and move up to 50 lbs. on a regular ...

Scotts Miracle-Gro

Material Handler

Linden, CA · On-site

$20.70/hr

The Material Handler works in our Scotts manufacturing facilities. The person in the Material ... Opens containers, using steel cutters, crowbar, claw hammer, or other hand tools. * Loads and ...

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All JobsContainer Handler JobsContainer Handler Jobs in California

Container Handler information

See California salary details

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$17

$23

How much do container handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for container handler in California is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Container Handler jobs in California? For Container Handler jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Container Handler jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Container Handler jobs in California are:
Container Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Container Handler job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,884 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Shipper & Material Handler

Container Graphics Corp.

Modesto, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

The Shipper and Material Handler is responsible for the safe and accurate inspection, pick-up, storage, documentation, and retrieval of incoming materials. They also assist in the packing, shipping, and delivery of finished cutting dies, printing plates and material orders being sent to customers. These duties are interchangeable, and one person may be assigned to one or more of these functions or may specialize in just one function. The Shipper and Material Handler is expected to drive Container Graphics CS1 mindset and always present the company in a positive, energetic, and consistent manner. They will report directly to the Production Manager.

Shipper

• Ensure that the product to be shipped is inspected and released by production. Ensure that the packing slip

and other documentation match the product to be shipped

• Package and seal the product according to the SOP's for the product and the method of shipment

• Ensure that the product is picked-up and shipped in time to arrive at the desired destination within the

customers expected time frame

Material Handler

• Inspect incoming material that has been ordered in ensure that it meets the purchase order request in

description, quantity, and price.

• Inspects and tests the quality of the material to ensure that Section 9.0 and section 14.0 of the CGC QUALITY

MANAGEMENT SYSTEM is adhered to. Makes notes and communicates the receipt of non-conforming

product the Production Manager

• Updates the inventory control system with the appropriate date to reflect the current balance and status of

quantity and description on hand

• Moves materials from receiving to warehouse/storage production. May lift material using hand-trucks,

dollies, or hydraulic lifts.