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Container Handler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Freight Handler - PT

Commerce, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

* Reads work order or follows oral instructions to determine materials or containers to be moved ... The Freight Handler loads, unloads and transports freight within or near terminal, yard or work ...

Freight Handler - PT

Los Angeles, CA

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

* Reads work order or follows oral instructions to determine materials or containers to be moved ... The Freight Handler loads, unloads and transports freight within or near terminal, yard or work ...

Freight Handler -FT

Commerce, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

* Reads work order or follows oral instructions to determine materials or containers to be moved ... The Freight Handler loads, unloads and transports freight within or near terminal, yard or work ...

Freight Handler - FT

Livermore, CA

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

* Reads work order or follows oral instructions to determine materials or containers to be moved ... The Freight Handler loads, unloads and transports freight within or near terminal, yard or work ...

The Material Handler will play a crucial role in supporting our Warehouse departments. The ideal ... Opens bales, crates, and other containers. * Records number of materials or items received or ...

Material Handler

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

The Material Handler will play a crucial role in supporting our Warehouse departments. The ideal ... Opens bales, crates, and other containers. * Records number of materials or items received or ...

The Material Handler interacts with other departments to achievethe company'score strategies and ... Mark and identify containers with required documentation. * Complies with established facility ...

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$21.83/hr

Arconic is currently in search of Material Handler to join our Kawneer Team in Visalia . $21.83 ... Able to read work order and follow oral instructions to ascertain materials or containers to be ...

Materials Handler Pay Rate: $18.00 - $20.00/hour DOE Benefits include health, dental, and vision ... Prepare and ship items using the appropriate shipping method, select appropriate shipping container ...

Arconic is currently in search of Material Handler to join our Kawneer Team in Visalia . $21.83 ... Able to read work order and follow oral instructions to ascertain materials or containers to be ...

Material Handler

El Monte, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

The Gill Corporation is seeking a Material Handler to ensure all material movements (issues ... Load and unload containers or trailers. * Perform training on general warehouse duties and ...

Arconic is currently in search of Material Handler to join our Kawneer Team in Visalia . $21.83 ... Able to read work order and follow oral instructions to ascertain materials or containers to be ...

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$21.83/hr

Arconic is currently in search of Material Handler to join our Kawneer Team in Visalia . $21.83 ... Able to read work order and follow oral instructions to ascertain materials or containers to be ...

Materials Handler

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Materials Handler Pay Rate: $18.00 - $20.00/hour DOE Benefits include health, dental, and vision ... Prepare and ship items using the appropriate shipping method, select appropriate shipping container ...

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$21.83/hr

Arconic is currently in search of Material Handler to join our Kawneer Team in Visalia . $21.83 ... Able to read work order and follow oral instructions to ascertain materials or containers to be ...

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Container Handler information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do container handler jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 are container handlers?

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 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.

Infographic showing various Container Handler job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,884 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Freight Handler - PT

Roadrunner

Commerce, CA • On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

  • Reads work order or follows oral instructions to determine materials or containers to be moved.
  • Loads and unloads freight and counts onto or from pallets, trays, racks and shelves.
  • Loads freight into vehicles and installs blocking, bracing or padding to prevent shifting or damage in transit.
  • Transports freight from storage dock area or trailers to designated area.
  • Secures lifting attachments to freight and conveys load to move load to destination.
  • Attaches identifying tags or labels to freight or marks information on cases, bales, pallets and other shipping packages.
  • Stacks or assembles freight into bundles and bands bundles together on pallets.
  • Cleans work area, machines and equipment to assist machine operators.
  • Operates industrial truck or electric hoist to assist in loading or moving material and products.
  • Participates in proactive team efforts to achieve departmental and company goals.
Additional Requirements:Summary:The Freight Handler loads, unloads and transports freight within or near terminal, yard or work site.