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Container Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Pennsauken, NJ

$16.50 - $20/hr

MATERIAL HANDLER (DISTRIBUTION HUB) Job Summary: Is responsible for the unloading, routing, and ... Verifies inbound containers and container labeling are consistent with inbound paperwork and all ...

Material Handler

Pennsauken, NJ · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

MATERIAL HANDLER (DISTRIBUTION HUB) Job Summary: Is responsible for the unloading, routing, and ... Verifies inbound containers and container labeling are consistent with inbound paperwork and all ...

Missile Material Handler Asc

Silverdale, WA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

Under the technical direction of higher-level personnel, track container returns, dispense ... Missile Material Handler Seniors, acquire a working knowledge of missile material handling ...

Material Handler

Medina, OH

$15 - $18/hr

As material handler, you will be responsible for unloading inbound material, maintaining stock in ... Sort shipments during loading or unloading process and mark containers with identifying information.

Materials Handler

Deerfield Beach, FL

$16 - $19.50/hr

We are seeking two Materials Handlers to join our team in Deerfield Beach, FL, supporting both day ... Stock incoming raw materials in designated containers and storage areas * Verify raw material ...

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Container Handler information

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$9

$17

$24

How much do container handler jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for container handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 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.

More about Container Handler jobs
What cities are hiring for Container Handler jobs? Cities with the most Container Handler job openings:
What states have the most Container Handler jobs? States with the most job openings for Container Handler jobs include:
Infographic showing various Container Handler job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.
BottleDrop Material Handler - Hermiston

BottleDrop Material Handler - Hermiston

OREGON BEVERAGE RECYCLING COOPERATIVE

Hermiston, OR • On-site

$16.39 - $19.66/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Our Vision

A world where no resource is wasted.

Our Mission

To ensure that no resource goes to waste by empowering people to redeem every container easily, efficiently, and effectively.

Our Values

We are loyal, resilient, trustworthy, creative, competent, and engaged.

Summary
The Material Handler operates a variety of equipment designed to sort, count, compact or move empty beverage containers for the purpose of recycling. The Material Handler will process and record container counts accurately while meeting established productivity standards. They will identify, troubleshoot and report maintenance items in addition to maintaining a clean and well-organized work and loading area. The Material Handler must be dependable with punctual attendance.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Adhere to OSHA Safety Standards and OBRC policies including but not limited to Personal Protective Equipment and Lock Out Tag Out
  • Clean and maintain work area and equipment to ensure a safe work environment
  • Operate a manual and electric pallet jack and/or tote stacker
  • Safely load/unload trailer with totes and pallets and other items as needed
  • Load, unload, push and maneuver full and empty bag racks of product
  • Lift and empty bags of beverage containers from rack into sorting or compactor equipment
  • Efficiently and accurately complete all data entry requirements and the processing of beverage containers to include receiving and processing of green bags
  • Safely operate, maintain and troubleshoot equipment and Redemption Center tools
  • Escalate repair issues when necessary
  • Other job duties as assigned

Education/Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent education is required
  • Work experience in a warehouse or production environment is preferred

Requirements – Skills, Job Knowledge & Abilities

  • Possess the ability to work in a physical, fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work well in a team environment

Supervisory Responsibility

  • None

Travel

  • None

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

  • Work indoors and outdoors as needed in various temperatures/conditions.
  • Exposure to industrial equipment with moving mechanical parts, vibration, sharp objects and cleaning products.
  • Occasional exposure to odors of empty beverage containers.
  • Noise levels in designated areas require the use of approved hearing protection.
  • Must be able to frequently lift/carry up to 30lbs.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift/carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Push/pull 50+ lbs. frequently (wheeled bag racks).
  • Talking and hearing is frequently required.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Must be able to stand and walk.
  • Must be able to bend/stoop/crouch/squat.
  • Must be able to use arms/wrists/hands/grasp.
  • Must be able to occasionally climb and balance.