1

Container Lift Operator Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Warrendale, PA ยท On-site

$19/hr

Packaging materials or finished goods into containers for the purpose of protection, display, and ... Must be able to lift at times, able to meet yields, volume (lbs. per hour) and quality standards ...

Machine Operator

Warrendale, PA ยท On-site

$19/hr

... finished goods into containers for the purpose of protection, display, and handling ... Must be able to lift at times, able to meet yields, volume (lbs. per hour) and quality standards

Machine Operator

Verona, PA ยท On-site

$21.25/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices ... The employee frequently is required to lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds. WORK ...

Machine Operator

Verona, PA ยท On-site

$22.25/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices ... The employee frequently is required to lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds. WORK ...

Machine Operator

Verona, PA ยท On-site

$21.15/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices ... The employee frequently is required to lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds. WORK ...

Machine Operator

Verona, PA ยท On-site

$21.25/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices ... The employee frequently is required to lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds. WORK ...

Forklift Operator

New Kensington, PA ยท On-site

$18.50/hr

... containers * Verify shipment contents against purchase orders, packing slips, and invoices for ... Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted and stand/operate equipment for extended periods

Forklift Operator

New Kensington, PA ยท On-site

$18.50/hr

... containers * Verify shipment contents against purchase orders, packing slips, and invoices for ... Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted and stand/operate equipment for extended periods

Forklift Operator

New Kensington, PA ยท On-site

$18.50/hr

... containers * Verify shipment contents against purchase orders, packing slips, and invoices for ... Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted and stand/operate equipment for extended periods

Forklift Operator

New Kensington, PA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

... containers * Verify shipment contents against purchase orders, packing slips, and invoices for ... Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted and stand/operate equipment for extended periods

Machine Operator

Warrendale, PA ยท On-site

$19/hr

... finished goods into containers for the purpose of protection, display, and handling ... Must be able to lift at times, able to meet yields, volume (lbs. per hour) and quality standards ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Container Lift Operator information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$11

$18

$22

How much do container lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for container lift operator in Pittsburgh, PA is $18.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $19.62 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 Pittsburgh, PA? For Container Lift Operator jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Container Lift Operator jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Container Lift Operator jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Container Lift Operator jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Container Lift Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Container Lift Operator job openings in Pittsburgh, PA 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 $38,039 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Machine Operator

Paragon

Warrendale, PA โ€ข On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

$19.00 per hour

Job Profile Summary

Responsible for managing or performing work associated with converting raw materials and components into finished goods including: General production manufacturing work Assembling finished components or parts into finished products Process manufacturing batches of bulk materials/ingredients including mechanical processing (e.g., mixing, grinding, separating, filtering, etc.) and chemical processing (altering the chemical properties of materials through chemical reactions and changing temperature, pressure, etc.) Setting up and operating machine tools to convert materials into parts, sub-assemblies, and assemblies Surface finishing of parts, components, and assembled items including washing/painting/plating/anti-corrosion coating, hardening, polishing/engraving/etching, etc. Packaging materials or finished goods into containers for the purpose of protection, display, and handling

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate a wide variety of machines

  • Responsible for the full life cycle of products through the Packaging Process

  • Match tickets with the product, perform a quality check of items/weights, ensure the product meets customer specifications, process orders through the Cyrovac machine, ensure accuracy, pack, and palletize

Skills

  • Must be able to safely operate the machine for the intended purpose

  • Basic troubleshooting of machinery

  • Must be able to keep up with the line speed of machinery

  • Must be able to lift at times, able to meet yields, volume (lbs. per hour) and quality standards

Required
    Preferred
      Job Industries
      • Other