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Container Lift Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Acme Corporation

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 ...

Acme Corporation

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 ...

Great Hire HR Solutions

Forklift Operator

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Must be able to lift 50+ pounds throughout the shift. * Capable of multitasking and switching tasks ... Can load and unload pallets from containers by hand if needed. * Put away inbound shipments to ...

Great Hire

Forklift Operator

Chatsworth, CA

$19 - $20/hr

Must be able to lift 50+ pounds throughout the shift. Capable of multitasking and switching tasks ... Can load and unload pallets from containers by hand if needed. Put away inbound shipments to ...

MAPEI Corporation

Warehouse Operator

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$20.76/hr

Pack shipping containers and product bags according to order specifications. * Ensure accurate ... Ability to lift up to 55 lbs. independently; and up to 100 lbs. with assistance. * Ability to stand ...

Pirate Staffing Corp

Forklift Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85/hr

Load and unload trucks, containers, and shipments * Move materials to designated storage and ... Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand, bend, and walk throughout the shift Plenty of overtime ...

Pirate Staffing Corp

Forklift Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85/hr

Load and unload trucks, containers, and shipments * Move materials to designated storage and ... Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand, bend, and walk throughout the shift Plenty of overtime ...

TOSCA II LLC

Technical Operator II

Riverside, CA

Inspect reusable containers for quality and food safety compliance * Load, unload, stage, stack ... Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform repetitive motions throughout the shift Physical ...

TOSCA Ltd.

Technical Operator II

Riverside, CA · On-site

Inspect reusable containers for quality and food safety compliance * Load, unload, stage, stack ... Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform repetitive motions throughout the shift Physical ...

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All JobsContainer Lift Operator JobsContainer Lift Operator Jobs in California

Container Lift Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$22

How much do container lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 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 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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Container Lift Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Container Lift Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Container Lift Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Container Lift Operator job openings:

Container Lift Operator jobs near you
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.

Forklift Operator

Acme Corporation

Los Angeles, CA

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking a reliable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to join our team. The Forklift Operator is responsible for moving, locating, stacking, and counting merchandise while maintaining a clean and organized warehouse environment. The ideal candidate has strong attention to detail, understands warehouse safety procedures, and can operate material handling equipment efficiently.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment safely and efficiently.

  • Load and unload trucks, pallets, and containers.

  • Move products to designated storage areas and ensure proper stock rotation.

  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance issues.

  • Maintain accurate inventory by scanning and documenting materials.

  • Follow company safety policies and OSHA regulations at all times.

  • Assist with general warehouse duties such as picking, packing, and staging orders.

  • Keep work areas clean and free of hazards.

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

  • Valid forklift certification (or ability to obtain certification).

  • Proven experience operating a forklift in a warehouse, manufacturing, or distribution environment.

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.

  • Basic math and computer skills for inventory tracking.

  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with RF scanners or warehouse management systems (WMS).

  • Knowledge of shipping and receiving processes.

  • Bilingual is a plus.

Work Environment:

  • Warehouse setting with exposure to varying temperatures.

  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting.

  • May require overtime, weekends, or shift work depending on business needs.

Key Competencies:

  • Safety awareness

  • Reliability and punctuality

  • Teamwork

  • Time management

  • Problem-solving

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