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Container Lift Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ECS Venture LLC

Warehouse Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Load and unload trucks, pallets, and containers in a safe and efficient manner. * Conduct regular ... Occasionally lift, move, push, pull and carry upwards of 100 lbs. with assistance depending on ...

Envision Cold

Warehouse Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Load and unload trucks, pallets, and containers in a safe and efficient manner. * Conduct regular ... Occasionally lift, move, push, pull and carry upwards of 100 lbs. with assistance depending on ...

Employee Force Provider - EFP Staffing

Be Seen First

Reach Forklift Operator (3rd Shift)

Chino, CA · On-site

$17 - $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 ...

Tate & Lyle

Milling & Packaging Operator

San Diego, CA

$18 - $21.75/hr

Operator is responsible for filling product containers and final inspection prior to shipping. This ... lift 55 lbs. It is also necessary to tilt and roll 220-pound drums on and off pallets. Visual ...

Tate & Lyle

Milling & Packaging Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

Operator is responsible for filling product containers and final inspection prior to shipping. This ... lift 55 lbs. It is also necessary to tilt and roll 220-pound drums on and off pallets. Visual ...

Veritiv

Forklift Operator

Ventura, CA · On-site

$22.25/hr

... opened containers (crates, bales, etc.) as necessary. • Process clear and accurate paperwork ... lift, twist and carry up 50 - 75 pounds, manipulate (push and pull) up to 160 pounds of product ...

Veritiv Corporation

Forklift Operator

Ventura, CA · On-site

$22.25/hr

... opened containers (crates, bales, etc.) as necessary. • Process clear and accurate paperwork ... lift, twist and carry up 50 - 75 pounds, manipulate (push and pull) up to 160 pounds of product ...

wafna

Forklift Operator 1

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $24/hr

Unload products from trucks, containers, and stock them in the designated area. * Responsible for ... Require considerable and strenuous physical exertion so incumbents should be able to lift heavy ...

wafna

Forklift Operator 1

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $24/hr

Unload products from trucks, containers, and stock them in the designated area. * Responsible for ... Require considerable and strenuous physical exertion so incumbents should be able to lift heavy ...

wafna

Forklift Operator 1

Brisbane, CA

$20.50 - $24/hr

Unload products from trucks, containers, and stock them in the designated area. * Responsible for ... Require considerable and strenuous physical exertion so incumbents should be able to lift heavy ...

wafna

Forklift Operator 1

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $24/hr

Unload products from trucks, containers, and stock them in the designated area. * Responsible for ... Require considerable and strenuous physical exertion so incumbents should be able to lift heavy ...

CleanHarbors

Forklift Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Fork lift experience preferred (Not Required); * Ability to use computer; * Ability to lift 50 or ... Inspect containers, and maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.

Clean Harbors

Forklift Operator

San Jose, CA

$24/hr

Fork lift experience preferred (Not Required); * Ability to use computer; * Ability to lift 50 or ... Inspect containers, and maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.

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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 Aug 8, 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 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.

Warehouse Operator

ECS Venture LLC

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description:

As a Warehouse Operator with Envision Cold, you will be responsible for operating forklifts and other material handling equipment in a cold storage environment to safely and efficiently move goods and materials. This role requires knowledge of forklift operation, adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to work in a cooler/freezer environment.


Hours are typically Monday - Friday 5:30AM - 2:00PM but with growth and seasonal demands, all Associates must be able to work overtime as needed, including Saturdays and/or Sundays.


Please note: This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and requires employees to become members of the designated Union no later than the 31st day following their date of employment.


What you’ll do (including, but not limited to):

  • Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment to move goods and materials within the cold storage facility.
  • Load and unload trucks, pallets, and containers in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Conduct regular equipment inspections to ensure proper functioning and advise the appropriate leader/associate should there be any issues or concerns.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization within the cold storage facility.
  • Assist with inventory counts and stock rotation as needed.
  • Substitute for other operators when necessary.
  • Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to coordinate workflow and prioritize tasks.
  • Follow company policies and regulations regarding cold storage operations.
  • Adhere to safety protocols and procedures at all times to prevent accidents and injuries.
  • Perform other duties as assigned/needed.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

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

  • Regularly required to stand, sit, reach, bend, twist, kneel and use hands to handle various products.
  • Consistently lift, move, push, pull and carry upwards of 40 lbs. depending on product and business operations.
  • Occasionally lift, move, push, pull and carry upwards of 100 lbs. with assistance depending on product and business operations.
  • Work around, on or near a variety of equipment, including pallet jacks, forklifts, warehouse racking systems, electronic devices and refrigeration systems.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an Associate may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided.

  • Moving objects, including pallet jacks, forklifts and other warehouse equipment.
  • Moderate noise levels depending on warehouse operations.
  • Working around refrigeration systems that may include freon or ammonia-based coolants.
  • Inclement weather subject to loading and receiving dock configuration.
  • Interior temperatures between 70 to -15 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to -26 degrees Celsius)
Requirements:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must have a minimum of 3 months’ forklift experience.
  • Maintain a valid forklift operator certification.
  • Have a good attendance record and work ethic.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple priorities as needed.
  • Physical ability to lift and move heavy objects (minimum of 40 lbs.) as required.
  • Comfortable working in cold/freezing temperatures while wearing personal protective equipment and freezer gear.
  • Familiarity with inventory management systems is a plus.
  • High degree of attention to prevent injury to others.
  • Fluency in both English and Spanish is a plus.
Here at Envision Cold, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. We strive to create a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone is respected and valued for their unique contributions.

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