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Container Terminal Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Monitor daily inventory of ISO containers across depots, terminals, and customer locations * Track container movements (in-gate, out-gate, empty, loaded, repair, and repositioning) * Ensure accurate ...

Drayage Account Manager

Lisle, IL · On-site

$900 - $1.5K/wk

You will manage import/export container moves, track shipments through terminals, resolve exceptions, and ensure every load meets service standards and profitability targets. Key Responsibilities ...

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.69 - $24.18/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

As an Intermodal Driver with 24-7 Trucking Chicago, you'll play a key role in keeping freight moving throughout the Chicago area by safely transporting containers between rail terminals, ports, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Container Terminal information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.1K

$74.1K

$114.4K

How much do container terminal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for container terminal in Chicago, IL is $74,137.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,800.00 and $84,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Container Terminal job?

A Container Terminal job involves managing the movement, storage, and handling of shipping containers at a port or terminal. Workers in this field ensure containers are properly loaded and unloaded using cranes, trucks, and other equipment. Positions range from crane operators and terminal supervisors to logistics coordinators and maintenance crews. The role requires attention to safety protocols, efficiency in handling cargo, and coordination with shipping lines and transport services. Container terminal jobs are essential to global trade and require teamwork, technical skills, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Container Terminal position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Container Terminal role, you need a solid understanding of logistics, cargo handling operations, and safety protocols, often supported by relevant vocational training or certifications. Familiarity with terminal operating systems (TOS), heavy machinery such as cranes and forklifts, and adherence to industry certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail will help you stand out, as will clear communication under time constraints. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and coordinated operations in a fast-paced port environment.

What are the typical work hours and shift patterns for employees at a container terminal?

Container terminals usually operate around the clock, which means employees may work in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to ensure continuous cargo handling and vessel turnaround. Shift patterns often depend on the volume of ship arrivals and the specific role, with some teams following fixed schedules and others on a rotating basis. While this can require flexibility and adaptability, it also allows some workers the opportunity to balance work with other commitments. Supervisors and team leads typically coordinate schedules to ensure optimal staffing and operational coverage.

What are the most commonly searched types of Container Terminal jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Container Terminal jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Container Terminal jobs in Chicago, IL? For Container Terminal jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Container Terminal jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Container Terminal jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Container Terminal job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,137 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Terminal Operator (Plant Maintenance)

Ozinga

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Ozinga rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Terminal Operator (Plant Maintenance)

The Terminal Operator (Plant Maintenance) role is a multi-craft position responsible for the maintenance of the equipment, safety of their co-workers, and maintaining a clean work environment.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Consistently maintain all safety precautions, using all safety gear and personal protective equipment
  • Clean and perform routine maintenance work on equipment, loaders, bins, carts, and other containers
  • Maintain equipment storage to ensure inventory is protected
  • Active listening to receive instructions and read work orders to complete work assignments
  • Openly and effectively communicate with all staff and drivers to ensure accuracy of loads and minimize errors
  • Ability to be flexible in work assignments and open to working in multiple areas and locations as necessary to get the job done

Global Responsibilities:

  • Regular attendance and physical presence at work is an essential function of this position
  • This job may require additional duties not listed above and the employee may be asked to perform those duties to meet business needs

Qualifications:

Education/Specialized Knowledge/Professional Certifications:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Knowledge of operation of a cement terminal preferred
  • 2+ years working with heavy equipment, welding equipment and/or automated industrial systems

Experience:

  • Ironwork/Fabrication experience
  • Experience and knowledge of batch panels and operating systems for cement terminal

Skills/Abilities:

  • Basic computer skills and ability to use interfaces with computers
  • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
  • Maintain all safety precautions for all work environments

Working Conditions:

  • Fast paced environment with a need to respond to ever changing scenarios
  • Exposed to moving mechanical parts, vehicles, heavy construction equipment, toxic or caustic chemicals, and outside weather conditions
  • Noise level is usually moderate but can be high and requires personal hearing protection on occasion at terminal and machine rooms
  • Frequent exposure to cement, lime, dust, oils, diesel fuel, and other substances that may cause burns, and are toxic or explosive if handled incorrectly
  • Exposure to elements of weather including heat, cold, rain, and dust

Physical Requirements:

  • Regularly required to talk or hear; frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms
  • Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl
  • Occasional need to climb heights of up to 150 feet
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus
  • Operate buttons, levers, and other controls located on various equipment
  • Work through stressful situations while maintaining professionalism and composure
  • Must be able to frequently bend in order to obtain samples from stockpiles or ground, climb ladders with buckets, and push wheelbarrows
  • Must be able to sit and drive for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to work long and flexible hours as necessary
  • Must be able to maneuver in and around our terminals and yards as necessary
  • Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds several times a day

Benefits Information:

In alignment with our Bargaining Agreement, we are proud to partner with our Union representatives to provide a benefits package that is both competitive and tailored to meet the needs of our employees and their families. These thoughtfully designed plans typically include:

  • Health Insurance – Supporting your overall wellness.
  • Dental and Vision Coverage – Ensuring comprehensive care for you and your loved ones.
  • Voluntary Benefits – Helping you to cover unexpected expenses.
  • Retirement Plans – Helping you prepare for a secure and peaceful future.
  • Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay – Giving you time to recharge and enjoy life's moments.

At Ozinga, we believe in creating a workplace where every co-worker feels valued and supported. Join us and experience the difference of working for a company that truly cares! Ozinga is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applications for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, veteran status, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.


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