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Container Lift Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Lift Operator Department: Lift Operations Reports To: Lift Supervisor Prepared By ... containers, continually checking the status of marker information boards, assisting with the daily ...

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Fork Lift Reach Operator

Chino, CA · On-site

$17.90 - $18/hr

... containers, and other food packaging solutions. Reach operators play a critical role in moving ... Ability to lift up to 50 pounds when needed. * Comfortable working in a fast-paced distribution ...

New

Terminal Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$26.71/hr

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Terminal Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$24.58 - $26.71/hr

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

... label containers, container tags, or products as needed. • Pack special arrangements or ... lift up to 50 lbs. • Ability to stand for sustained periods of time Employee Benefits: At ...

... label containers, container tags, or products as needed. • Pack special arrangements or ... lift up to 50 lbs. • Ability to stand for sustained periods of time Employee Benefits: At ...

Forklift Operator-1st Shift

Chino, CA · On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Verify and confirm counts of received goods from transfer trucks and containers. * Match packing ... Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs consistently. * Able to stand, walk, bend, and lift for ...

Forklift Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Load and unload materials from trucks and containers. * Perform routine inspections and maintenance ... Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physical tasks as required. * Good communication skills ...

New

Operator II

Fremont, CA

$19.75 - $24/hr

Close and seal containers, sort bundles or filled containers, label containers, container tags, or ... Able to lift up to 50 lbs. Without assistance. * May work in cold environments (as low as -20C) and ...

New

Manufacturing Operator

Fremont, CA

$20.75 - $25/hr

Close and seal containers, sort bundles or filled containers, label containers, container tags, or ... Able to lift up to 50 lbs. without assistance. * May work in cold environments (as low as -20C) and ...

Forklift Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Load and unload materials from trucks and containers. * Perform routine inspections and maintenance ... Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physical tasks as required. * Good communication skills ...

New

Forklift Operator

Los Angeles, CA

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

Load and unload trucks, pallets, and containers. * Move products to designated storage areas and ... Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods. * Basic math and computer skills for ...

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Container Lift Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$22

How much do container lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for container lift operator in California is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What challenges do container lift operators face and how can they be managed?

Container Lift Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling heavy machinery safely, and meeting tight shipping schedules. Effective management of these challenges involves adhering strictly to safety protocols, maintaining clear communication with team members, and staying up-to-date with equipment maintenance schedules. Many operators also benefit from ongoing training and support from supervisors to ensure efficient workflow and minimize downtime due to equipment issues or logistical delays.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a container lift operator?

To thrive as a Container Lift Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with proper licensing or certification. Familiarity with container handling machinery, such as reach stackers and forklifts, and experience with terminal operating systems are usually required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient movement of cargo, minimizing risk and maximizing productivity in busy port and logistics environments.

What is the difference between Container Lift Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectContainer Lift OperatorForklift Operator
CredentialsTypically requires OSHA certification and possibly a crane or container handling licenseRequires OSHA forklift certification
Work EnvironmentPorts, shipping yards, container terminalsWarehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, maritimeWarehousing, manufacturing, retail distribution
Job FunctionsLoading/unloading containers, operating container handling equipmentMoving pallets, loading/unloading goods with forklifts

The main difference is that Container Lift Operators specialize in handling large shipping containers in ports and shipping yards, often using specialized equipment, while Forklift Operators focus on moving goods within warehouses and distribution centers using forklifts. Both roles require OSHA certification but serve different environments and functions within the logistics industry.

What is a container lift operator?

Container Lift Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery, such as cranes or forklifts, to load, unload, and move shipping containers in ports, warehouses, or freight terminals. Their role is vital for ensuring the safe and efficient handling of cargo during shipping and logistics operations. They must follow strict safety protocols and often work in fast-paced environments that require attention to detail and coordination with other team members. Container Lift Operators may also be responsible for inspecting equipment and containers to prevent damage and ensure compliance with regulations.
What are popular job titles related to Container Lift Operator jobs in California? For Container Lift Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Container Lift Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Container Lift Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Container Lift Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,669 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

$18/hr

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Job description

Job Title: Lift Operator

Department: Lift Operations

Reports To: Lift Supervisor

Prepared By: Sierra-at-Tahoe

Prepared Date:07/2023

FLSA Status:Non-Exempt

Pay Status: Hourly

YR Status: Seasonal (Full-time or Part-time)

Benefit Status:None

Pay Rate: Starting at $18/hr


Embrace the thrill of winter and step outside of the norm and into an outdoor opportunity you'll cherish forever. Here at Sierra, we pride ourselves on our welcoming and inclusive work atmosphere that keeps the stoke high for our guests and employees alike all season long. If you're looking for a full career switch or an exciting weekend roll centrally stationed in the beautiful Sierra Nevada, you just found it.

NOTE: This job description shall not be construed as a contract for employment. Must be at least 18 years of age. Sierra-at-Tahoe is an at-will employer. This position requires a post offer background check.


SUMMARY
Assists guests in getting on and off of surface lifts/tow rope by operating lift including inspection and testing before opening. Make sure every guest has the right ticket to access the lift. As a customer focused organization, a crucial part of each employee's job is to get and keep guests.
Duties and Responsibilities are (but not limited to):
1. Welcomes and greets guests as they enter line queues and assists guests as needed.
2. Assist with shoveling and raking of snow and ice on a regular basis to maintain loading ramps.
3. Identify and group appropriate number of guests to load chair in an efficient and effective manner.
4. Always establish crowd-control and communicate with the guest when organizing chair load groups or line ques.
5. May assist with creating the maze and safe-loading areas with access to RFID gates using appropriate tools.
6. Capable of resolving guest conflict using resort policies and procedures.
7. Completes daily lift logs, incident reports, and opening and closing procedures on appropriate reports.
8. Under the supervision of the Lift Operations Supervisor or his/her assistants, operates the assigned lift in accordance with standard procedures and written or verbal instruction to provide safe, quality uphill transportation for guests and employees.
9. Communicates with top or bottom lift staff to initiate the proper start/stop procedures as public are loading the chairs.
10. Travels over the snow on either skis or snowboard to and from work assignments following all resort policies and procedures regarding designated trails and safety guidelines.
11. Must communicate and clear with Lift Maintenance and Dispatch prior to turning lifts for the public.
12. Assists with the inspection of the lift prior to operation start up, which includes emptying trash containers, continually checking the status of marker information boards, assisting with the daily checking of switches, chairs, grips, and maintaining of ramps and corrals.
13. Performs closing procedures by unloading all riders from lift, shut down lift, clear out and smooth ramps and maze areas, secure lift house and tools.
14. Must become familiar with the area (lifts and trails) and also know the functions of other departments. Advises and assists guests as needed in a courteous manner.
15. Must become familiar with resort's policies and guest service expectations.
16. Communicates problems to superiors, while showing initiative in handling routine matters and emergencies.
17. Continually remains vigilant to the needs of both the equipment and the guests and react to those needs in the safest manner while maintaining quality service.
18. Contribute to team effort by participating in Job Sharing, assuming responsibility for the cleanliness of the resort and safety of guests and employees; participating in safety meetings; accepting diverse assignments; maintain a positive and friendly attitude and demeanor in all internal and external interactions.
19. Meet service level objectives and department goals as set forth by immediate supervisor.
20. Flexible working hours.
RESPONSIBILITIES TO SAFETY
1. Protect the safety of self, co-workers, and Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort guests at all times.
2. Report any potentially harmful equipment or situations to the immediate supervisor without delay.
3. Report safety-related accidents and incidents at once to immediate supervisor.
4. Follow all company and department safety policies and procedures.
5. Operate equipment in a safe manner that will not lead to injury of yourself or others.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or general education degree (G.E.D.); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret graphs.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Resort certification on any necessary equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to ski/ride, stand, walk, bend, twist, squat, talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance or run. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 15 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to guest/employee interaction, moving mechanical parts and varying outside weather conditions with changing altitudes (wet, dry, cold, hot, windy, snowy, rainy, icy, slick, sunny conditions). The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places. The noise level in the workplace is usually moderate.