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Empty Container Handler Operator Jobs in New York

Forklift Operator

New Brunswick, NJ · On-site

$20.30 - $27.87/hr

Coordinates with supervisor to empty full containers and trash bins throughout the day in and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... Handlers to pull materials from warehouse stock • Select and bring appropriate pot or tank to ... containers before filling and handling • Packs out approved batches and labels all finished ...

Production Operator

Somerset, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

2 Positions Opened in 3rd Shift Manufacturing Operator - Key Responsibilities Utilize dispensing ... material containers for return to the warehouse and properly deface and dispose of empty raw ...

Production Operator

Somerset, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

2 Positions Opened in 3rd Shift Manufacturing Operator - Key Responsibilities Utilize dispensing ... material containers for return to the warehouse and properly deface and dispose of empty raw ...

Showing results 41-60

Empty Container Handler Operator information

See New York salary details

$10

$19

$26

How much do empty container handler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for empty container handler operator in New York is $19.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an empty container handler operator?

An Empty Container Handler Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, such as a container forklift or reach stacker, to transport, stack, and organize empty shipping containers in a port, terminal, or warehouse. They ensure efficient handling of containers to optimize space and workflow. Operators must follow safety regulations, inspect equipment, and coordinate with other logistics personnel to maintain smooth operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an empty container handler operator?

To thrive as an Empty Container Handler Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery such as forklifts or specialized container handlers, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant safety certifications. Familiarity with yard management systems, logistics software, and adherence to OSHA safety standards are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively within a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and accurate handling of containers within busy port or warehouse environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by empty container handler operators on the job?

Empty Container Handler Operators often work in fast-paced port or warehouse settings where they must efficiently move and stack large shipping containers using specialized equipment. Challenges can include navigating tight spaces, working in varying weather conditions, and maintaining a high level of concentration to prevent accidents or damage. The role may also require flexibility to work different shifts and collaborate closely with yard supervisors, logistics staff, and other machine operators. Overcoming these challenges helps maintain the smooth flow of containerized goods and supports overall operational efficiency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Empty Container Handler Operator jobs in New York? The most popular types of Empty Container Handler Operator jobs in New York are:
What job categories do people searching Empty Container Handler Operator jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Empty Container Handler Operator jobs in New York are:
Infographic showing various Empty Container Handler Operator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,888 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Republic Services

New Brunswick, NJ • On-site

$20.30 - $27.87/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Republic Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 575 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: The Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe operation of the forklift. For the purpose of stacking material, loading of trailers, and emptying full containers throughout the facility in an efficient and safe manner.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform pre- and post-operation inspection of the equipment in accordance with Company policy to ensure windows, lights, mirrors are clean, and equipment is in proper operating condition.
  • Reports to shift supervisor for daily work assignments.
  • Responsible for loading of trailers safely and efficiently.
  • Responsible for organizing material in the warehouse.
  • Coordinates with supervisor to empty full containers and trash bins throughout the day in and around the facility.
  • Continuously monitor the condition of the equipment to ensure it is operationally ready at all times to minimize down time.
  • Follow all required safety policies and procedures.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must complete and pass OSHA's requirements for forklift certification (powered industrial truck) training as set forth in 29 CFR 1910.178.
  • Good customer services skills to meet and exceed customer expectations; acts in a professional, courteous and cooperative manner toward customers and co-workers; works with a sense of honesty and trustworthiness.
  • Good time management skills to ensure assigned responsibilities are completed in an efficient and safe manner.
  • Good follow through ability; ability to adhere to work schedule and follows through on challenges as they arise.
  • Ability to adhere to Company policies and rules set forth; promotes the Company's safety standards; does not take inappropriate risks.
  • Minimum of 1 year of prior related experience in forklift operation.
  • Minimum 1 year of prior experience working at sites regulated by OSHA.

  • 1st Shift

Pay Range:
The pay range for this position is $20.30 to $27.87* which reflects the minimum wage in multiple jurisdictions. The actual range will depend on the locality in which you are hired.
Bonus Plan Details (if applicable):
Rewarding Compensation and Benefits
Eligible employees can elect to participate in:
• Comprehensive medical benefits coverage, dental plans and vision coverage.
• Health care and dependent care spending accounts.
• Short- and long-term disability.
• Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP).
• Employee discount programs.
• 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Benefits https://jobs.republicservices.com/us/en/about-us/benefits
The statements used herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by an employee in this position, and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required by an incumbent so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.
EEO STATEMENT:Republic Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, relationship or association with a protected veteran (spouses or other family members), genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. For any concerns relating to Republic Services' commitment to equal opportunity employment, you may contact the AWARE Line at 1-866-3-AWARE-4.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is a leader in the environmental services industry. We provide customers with the most complete set of products and services, including recycling, waste, special waste, hazardous waste and field services. Our industry-leading commitments to advance circularity and support decarbonization are helping deliver on our vision to partner with customers to create a more sustainable world.
In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion. We serve 13 million customers and operate more than 1,000 locations, including collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills.
Although we operate across North America, the collection, recycling, treatment, or disposal of materials is a local business, and the dynamics and opportunities differ in each market we serve. By combining local operational management with standardized business practices, we drive greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational decisions at the local level, closest to the customer.
Our customers, including small businesses, major corporations and municipalities, want a partner with the expertise and capabilities to effectively manage their multiple recycling and waste streams. They choose Republic Services because we are committed to exceeding their expectations and helping them achieve their sustainability goals. Our 42,000 team members understand that it's not just what we do that matters, but how we do it.
Our company values guide our daily actions:
  • Safe: We protect the livelihoods of our colleagues and communities.
  • Committed to Serve: We go above and beyond to exceed our customers' expectations.
  • Environmentally Responsible: We take action to improve our environment.
  • Driven: We deliver results in the right way.
  • Human-Centered: We respect the dignity and unique potential of every person.

We are proud of our high employee engagement score of 86. We have an inclusive and diverse culture where every voice counts. In addition, our team positively impacted 5.1 million people in 2024 through the Republic Services Charitable Foundation and local community grants. These projects are designed to meet the specific needs of the communities we serve, with a focus on building sustainable neighborhoods.
STRATEGY
Republic Services' strategy is designed to generate profitable growth. Through acquisitions and industry advancements, we safely and sustainably manage our customers' multiple waste streams through a North American footprint of vertically integrated assets.
We focus on three areas of growth to meet the increasing needs of our customers: recycling and waste, environmental solutions and sustainability innovation.
With our integrated approach, strengthening our position in one area advances other areas of our business. For example, as we grow volume in recycling and waste, we collect additional material to bolster our circularity capabilities. And as we expand environmental solutions, we drive additional opportunities to provide these services to our existing recycling and waste customers.
Recycling and Waste
We continue to expand our recycling and waste business footprint throughout North America through organic growth and targeted acquisitions. The 13 million customers we serve and our more than 5 million pick-ups per day provide us with a distinct advantage. We aggregate materials at scale, unlocking new opportunities for advanced recycling. In addition, we are cross-selling new products and services to better meet our customers' specific needs.
Environmental Solutions
Our comprehensive environmental solutions capabilities help customers safely manage their most technical waste streams. We are expanding both our capabilities and our geographic footprint. We see strong growth opportunities for our offerings, including PFAS remediation, an increasing customer need.
Sustainability Innovation
Republic's recent innovations to advance circularity and decarbonization demonstrate our unique ability to leverage sustainability as a platform for growth.
The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility. These innovative sites process rigid plastics from our recycling centers, producing recycled materials that promote true bottle-to-bottle circularity. We also formed Blue Polymers, a joint venture with Ravago, to develop facilities that will further process plastic material from our Polymer Centers to help meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging. We are building a network of Polymer Centers and Blue Polymer facilities across North America.
Our customers are increasingly looking for decarbonization solutions, and we are leveraging our network of landfills to meet that need. Republic is committed to harnessing landfill gas, a natural byproduct of decomposing waste, and converting it to energy. Republic has partnered with renewable gas developers to construct Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) plants at our landfills, expanding beyond the 77 projects we currently have to make progress towards our goal to beneficially reuse 50% more biogas by 2030 (2017 baseline year).
RECENT RECOGNITION
  • Barron's 100 Most Sustainable Companies
  • CDP Discloser
  • Dow Jones Best-In-Class Indices
  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies
  • Fortune World's Most Admired Companies
  • Great Place to Work
  • Sustainability Yearbook S&P Global

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