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Container Handler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Heritage-Crystal Clean LLC

Material Handler

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Material Handler Crystal Clean (CC) is one of the nation's leading privately held companies in the ... Verifies inbound containers and container labeling are consistent with inbound paperwork and all ...

VWR, part of Avantor

Material Handler

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

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 ...

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 - $25/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 · On-site

$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 · On-site

$21 - $25/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 ...

Alliance Ground International

Material Handler

Oakland, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $23.25/hr

- 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/unload trucks • May ...

Avantor Fluid Handling, LLC

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

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

AMRESCO

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

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

Avantor, Inc.

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

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

VWR, part of Avantor

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

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

Avantor Inc.

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare 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 ...

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All JobsContainer Handler JobsContainer Handler Jobs in California

Container Handler information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do container handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,884 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Material Handler

Heritage-Crystal Clean LLC

Pomona, CA • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Material Handler

Crystal Clean (CC) is one of the nation's leading privately held companies in the environmental waste services industry. We are seeking highly motivated individuals with a strong work ethic to join our rapidly growing company. Crystal Clean offers competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

The Material Handler is responsible for the unloading, routing, and processing of incoming drums, tote tanks, containerized and/or palletized material. Is responsible for various functions including material transfers, waste check-in, and for loading outbound trailers to Branch locations, Designated Receiving Facilities and/or customer locations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for working safely in all job aspects and functions.
  • Promotes and fosters safety and efficiency in all Hub employees and activity.
  • Takes direction from Warehouse Manager and/or Dock Supervisor, as applicable.
  • Unloads containerized material from inbound trailers in accordance with Company rules and regulations (unloading).
  • Verifies inbound containers and container labeling are consistent with inbound paperwork and all applicable D.O.T. designations (waste checking)
  • Verifies container labeling and directs inbound containers to appropriate staging areas (unloading).
  • Prepares materials and loads outbound trailers for Branch replenishment (loading).
  • Loads outbound waste trailers for third party disposal (loader/waste checking).
  • Performs other duties as may be assigned.

Core Competencies:

  • Position consists of standing for long periods of time, bending, kneeling, stooping, frequently uses hands/fingers for handling, to work with such hand tools as outdoor tools, shovels, wrenches, screwdrivers, wire cutters, etc.
  • Crouching, and lifting containers weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Multitasking and ability to switch tasks
  • Ability to prioritize workload
  • Ability to understand RCRA compliance standards and OSHA safety regulations
  • Ability to move trailers with yard goat a plus

Education, Certificates, Licenses:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Valid driver's license with clean motor vehicle record (required for forklift operation and/or operation of motorized equipment).
  • Hazwoper certification

Pay Range: $19.00-$22.00 hourly

Crystal Clean LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Crystal Clean expressly values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and encourages the applications of individuals from diverse backgrounds, so that Crystal Clean reflects the communities and customers that we serve.

Apply