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Container Loader Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Overnight Loader

South Holland, IL · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

The purpose of this position is preparing outgoing shipments and load trucks, trailers, and shipping containers in a manner that meets company standards for safety, accuracy, and productivity.

Loader

Joliet, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Manually load products into trailers and shipping containers safely and efficiently. * Lift and move products weighing up to 50 pounds throughout the shift. * Walk long distances throughout the ...

Joliet Staffing is hiring a Freezer Off Loader for a busy food distribution center in Minooka, IL ... Unload pallets, boxes, and frozen food products from trailers and containers. * Verify incoming ...

Loader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Load trucks, trailers, and containers using forklifts, pallet jacks, or by hand * Verify outgoing shipments against documentation (bills of lading, invoices, packing slips) * Properly stack, secure ...

Load trucks, trailers, and containers using forklifts, pallet jacks, or by hand * Verify outgoing shipments against documentation (bills of lading, invoices, packing slips) * Properly stack, secure ...

Safely operating sit-down and stand-up forklifts to load and unload standard trailers, ocean containers, and airline ULDs (Unit Load Devices) * Air & Ocean Freight Handling: Building up and breaking ...

Consolidating and staging Less-than-Container Load (LCL) and Full Container Load (FCL) shipments * Weighing & Dimming: Accurately measuring the dimensions (dimming) and weighing cargo, as this ...

New

Load, unload, and sort floor loaded containers * Package product for movement throughout warehouse * Read and comprehend written instructions and packing lists * Assists QA with pallet transfers and ...

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Container Loader information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do container loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for container loader in Illinois is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.87 and $16.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a container loader, and how can they be addressed?

Container Loaders often encounter challenges such as managing heavy or awkwardly shaped cargo, working efficiently under time constraints, and ensuring items are securely packed to prevent damage during transit. To address these, it's important to follow proper lifting techniques, use appropriate equipment, and adhere to safety protocols. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is also key to coordinating loading activities and resolving issues quickly. Many companies provide on-the-job training to help workers develop these skills and promote a safe, productive environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a container loader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Container Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic understanding of warehouse operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pallet jacks, forklifts, and inventory management systems is typically required, with OSHA forklift certification being a common asset. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced environments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate loading processes that support overall supply chain effectiveness.

What is a container loader?

Container loaders are workers responsible for efficiently loading and unloading goods into shipping containers, trucks, or freight vehicles. Their main tasks include arranging cargo to maximize space, securing items to prevent damage during transit, and following safety protocols. They often use equipment like forklifts, pallet jacks, or hand trucks and must keep accurate records of loaded items. Container loaders play a vital role in the supply chain by ensuring goods are transported safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Container Loader vs Forklift Operator?

AspectContainer LoaderForklift Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and safety trainingRequires forklift certification and safety training
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading containers, warehouse, shipping yardsOperating forklifts in warehouses, distribution centers
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, freight forwardingWarehousing, manufacturing, logistics
Common Search/ComparisonContainer Loader vs Forklift Operator

Container Loaders and Forklift Operators both work in logistics and warehousing environments, often overlapping in tasks like moving goods. However, Container Loaders focus on loading goods into containers, requiring knowledge of cargo handling, while Forklift Operators operate forklifts to move pallets and materials within facilities. Both roles require safety training and certifications, but their specific duties and work settings differ slightly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Container Loader jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Container Loader jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Container Loader jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Container Loader job openings:
Infographic showing various Container Loader job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,586 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Overnight Loader

Martin Produce Inc.

South Holland, IL • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time, Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

POSITION TITLE: Overnight Loader
PURPOSE: The purpose of this position is preparing outgoing shipments and load trucks, trailers, and shipping containers in a manner that meets company standards for safety, accuracy, and productivity.
DEPARTMENT: Warehouse 2
REPORTS TO: Night Shift Lead –
PAY RATE: $19.00-$21.00 an hour
HOURS/SCHEDULE: Full-Time,
Sunday Start 3:00pm Monday-Thursday Start 6:00pm
DRESS CODE: Steel toe boots, Cloth Gloves (optional), Sweater or Light Jacket
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Load orders from loading dock onto container with material handling equipment
Prepare loads by centralizing weight on container
Maintain a clean, neat, and orderly work area
Conduct operations in manner that promotes safety
Ensure products are secured and free of damage
Responsible for completeness and correctness of all route stops loaded
Repack any boxes as required
Meet company standard productivity
Must work as a team player as well as independently
Secure freight inside trailer
Spotting of trailers to maintain efficient yard organization
Other duties as needed
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
High School Diploma
WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Basic math skills
Ability to operate electric/manual pallet jack/forklift
Experience in cross docking freight process
Work in fast paced environment
Detail oriented
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to lift more than 50 lbs. frequently
Ability to sit, stand, walk, and bend for long periods of time
Work in extreme temperature