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Container Loader Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Crane Worldwide Logistics

Material Handler II

Sterling, VA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Reads and follows work orders, and follows instructions to ascertain materials or container loads to be moved * Only authorized to use the following equipment after successful training: Pallet jack ...

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Helper

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Loads and empties residential and/or commercial containers into truck manually or mechanically. * Maneuvers containers that are staged curbside, dockside, carryout, or require pullout to complete ...

Crane Worldwide Logistics

Material Handler II

Sterling, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Reads and follows work orders, and follows instructions to ascertain materials or container loads to be moved * Only authorized to use the following equipment after successful training: Pallet jack ...

Crane Worldwide Logistics

Material Handler II

Sterling, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Reads and follows work orders, and follows instructions to ascertain materials or container loads to be moved * Only authorized to use the following equipment after successful training: Pallet jack ...

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Helper

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Loads and empties residential and/or commercial containers into truck manually or mechanically. * Maneuvers containers that are staged curbside, dockside, carryout, or require pullout to complete ...

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Helper

Gaithersburg, MD

$16.25 - $20/hr

Loads and empties residential and/or commercial containers into truck manually or mechanically. * Maneuvers containers that are staged curbside, dockside, carryout, or require pullout to complete ...

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Helper

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Loads and empties residential and/or commercial containers into truck manually or mechanically. * Maneuvers containers that are staged curbside, dockside, carryout, or require pullout to complete ...

brs

Material Handling Laborer

Washington, DC · On-site

Read work orders, and/or follow oral instructions, to determine materials or containers to be moved. * Load and unload materials onto or from pallets, trays, racks, conveyors, and shelves, by hand or ...

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All JobsContainer Loader JobsContainer Loader Jobs in Washington

Container Loader information

See Washington salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do container loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for container loader in Washington is $19.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.74 and $20.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Container Loader jobs in Washington?

For Container Loader jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Container Loader jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Container Loader jobs in Washington are:

Container Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Container Loader job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,096 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Material Handler II

Sterling, VA • On-site

Crane Worldwide Logistics
Transportation and Warehousing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Crane Worldwide Logisticsexternal

$17 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Crane Worldwide Logistics rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

Essential Job Functions
  • Sign off bill of lading (BOL), cross check packing list, picking, put away, work on more challenging material handling equipment, cross checking vendor accuracy, checking for damaged cargo during loading, unloading, labeling cargo
  • Fills client orders safely, efficiently, and within Crane SOPs.
  • Responsible for ensuring that distribution activities are conducted in accordance with internal quality standards while maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Reads and follows work orders, and follows instructions to ascertain materials or container loads to be moved
  • Only authorized to use the following equipment after successful training: Pallet jack, Rider jack, Standup, Order/Cherry Picker, Turret Truck, Reach Truck, Forklift over 5K
  • Not authorized to use heavy lifts
  • Loads and unloads materials onto or from pallets, trays, racks, and shelves by hand forklift, or other warehouse equipment.
  • Loads materials into vehicles and installs strapping, bracing or padding to prevent shifting or damage in transit
  • Counts, weighs, and records number of units of materials moved or handled on daily production sheet
  • Attaches identifying tags or labels to materials
  • Scans freight via warehouse management system with RF equipment
  • Completes required paperwork thoroughly and promptly.
  • Performs housekeeping tasks to maintain a safe work environment.
  • Accurately and courteously load client merchandise
  • Job requires presence on-site at the assigned work location
  • Other duties as assigned

Other Skills & Abilities
  • Ability to add, subtracts, multiply and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, fractions and decimals.
  • Ability to read, comprehend and complete basic checklists, forms or other related documents.
  • Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner.
  • Balances team and individual responsibilities.
  • Consistently at work and on time.

Physical Requirements
  • Job requires the ability to use vision, adjust focus and work on a standard computer screen
  • Stand or sit for long periods of time
  • Reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch and frequently required to climb or balance
  • Regularly lift and/or move 50 pounds by hand
  • Job requires presence on-site at the assigned work location

Education & Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • Greater than one-year of related experience

Certifications & Licenses
  • Forklift certification must be obtained within 90 days of hire.
  • Other professional certification may be required in some areas, as assigned.

WHY SHOULD YOU WORK FOR CRANE?
At Crane, we believe in providing our employees with excellent benefits at a Great Place to Work.
We offer:
  • Quarterly Incentive Plan
  • 136 hours of Paid Time Off which equals 17 days for the year, that can be used for Sick Time or for Personal Use
  • Excellent Medical, Dental and Vision benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement for education related to your job
  • Employee Referral Bonuses
  • Employee Recognition and Rewards Program
  • Paid Volunteer Time to support a cause that is close to your heart and contributes to our communities
  • Employee Discounts
  • Wellness Incentives that can go up to $100 per year for completing challenges, in addition to a discount on contribution rates

Come join the leader in logistics and take your career in the right direction.
Disclaimer:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.
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.
We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.
This position requires the final candidate to successfully pass an E-Verify Check.
More Information: http://www.dhs.gov/e-verify
Company benefits are contingent upon meeting eligibility requirements and plan conditions.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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