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Container Unloader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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General Laborer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19/hr

Container unloading Qualifications: * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. * Bilingual - English/Spanish * Punctuality and attendance * Basic math is encouraged

Loader/Unloader

Richmond, CA · On-site

$24.04/hr

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

Loader/Unloader

Richmond, CA · On-site

$24.04/hr

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

From the time Malcom McLean brought the shipping container to the world, we've kept our finger on ... As a Car Loader/Unloader, you play a vital role in the movement of vehicles within our terminal ...

New

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Showing results 1-20

Container Unloader information

See California salary details

$9

$15

$18

How much do container unloader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for container unloader in California is $15.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Container Unloader vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectContainer UnloaderWarehouse Worker
CredentialsNone typically required, may need OSHA trainingOften requires OSHA certification or forklift license
Work EnvironmentLoading docks, shipping yards, outdoor or semi-outdoorWarehouses, storage facilities, indoor and outdoor
Job FocusUnloading containers, handling cargoInventory management, stocking, order picking
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, freightRetail, manufacturing, distribution centers

Container Unloaders primarily focus on unloading cargo from shipping containers, often working at docks or ports. Warehouse Workers handle a broader range of tasks within storage facilities, including inventory management and order fulfillment. While both roles involve physical labor and may require OSHA training, Container Unloaders specialize in cargo handling, making their work environment more dock-oriented compared to the indoor/outdoor settings of Warehouse Workers.

How much can you make delivering shipping containers?

Container unloaders typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work full-time or part-time. Some positions may offer overtime pay or bonuses, especially in busy ports or warehouses with high-volume operations.

What is the highest paying warehouse job?

The highest paying warehouse jobs often include roles such as warehouse managers, logistics directors, or specialized forklift operators with certifications. These positions typically require experience, leadership skills, and sometimes advanced certifications, and they can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level roles like container unloaders.

What are some common challenges faced by container unloaders, and how can they prepare for them?

Container unloaders often encounter challenges such as handling heavy or awkwardly shaped items, working in varying weather conditions, and maintaining a speedy yet safe pace. To prepare, it's important to maintain good physical fitness, become familiar with safe lifting techniques, and wear appropriate protective gear. Teamwork and clear communication with coworkers and supervisors are also crucial for efficiency and preventing accidents. Most companies provide safety training and ongoing support to help new hires adapt quickly.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Container unloaders typically do not earn $300,000 annually. High-paying jobs in the US that can reach this level include specialized roles such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, corporate executives, and certain technology or finance professionals, often requiring advanced education, certifications, and significant experience.

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

To thrive as a Container Unloader, you need good physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic math skills, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, pallet jacks, and sometimes forklifts is often required, along with safety certifications like OSHA. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication help individuals stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient, accurate unloading and safe operations in busy warehouse environments.

What are container unloaders?

Container unloaders are workers responsible for removing goods and materials from shipping containers, typically at warehouses, distribution centers, or ports. Their main duties include unloading cargo safely and efficiently, inspecting products for damage, and organizing items for storage or further distribution. This role often requires physical strength, attention to detail, and the ability to work quickly as part of a team. Container unloaders may also operate equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks to move heavy loads. Safety procedures and proper handling techniques are crucial in this job to prevent injuries and ensure productivity.

Is it hard to get a job on a container ship?

Getting a job as a container unloader can be competitive but generally depends on the location, experience, and physical ability. Entry-level positions may require physical strength and safety training, while some employers prefer candidates with prior warehouse or dock work experience. Certifications like OSHA safety training can improve chances of employment.
What are popular job titles related to Container Unloader jobs in California? For Container Unloader jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Container Unloader jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Container Unloader jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Container Unloader job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,705 per year, or $15.7 per hour.
General Laborer

General Laborer

Talent One

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$16.90 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

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Job description

TalentOne Staffing is seeking a General Laborer in the city of Santa Ana, CA and surrounding areas.

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule: Monday - Friday (8:00am - 5:00pm & Overtime as needed)

Pay: $16.90/hr - $19.00 D.O.E

Responsibilities:

  • Assembly
  • Packaging
  • Order pulling
  • Warehouse
  • Inventory
  • Container unloading

Qualifications:

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Bilingual - English/Spanish
  • Punctuality and attendance
  • Basic math is encouraged

TalentOne logo

About TalentOne

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

TalentOne.in is a specialist search firm based at Bangalore since 2006. It has been our privilege of being reckoned among the most preferred search firms with leading MNCs, disruptive technology startups of different hues and respected Indian Corporate houses. ‘TalentOne’ specializes in executive search, contingency search and running well-oiled and highly effective, quick launch Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) engagements.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Ambalipura, Bellandu, BNG, IN

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