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Empty Container Handler Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

SMS Staffing

Material Handler

Columbia, IL · On-site

... ● Label containers and store materials in racks, shelves, and floor locations ● Operate ... empty/dirty recon drums onto trailers as requested ● Maintain material accuracy through cycle ...

Inmar

Controlled Substance Material Handler

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Open boxes (or other containers) of returned/recalled items with a box cutter may contain both ... Stock empty totes at scanning lines and remove trash from scanning area as directed * Always ...

ROCKWOOL

Material Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Unloading raw materials from trucks or rail containers * Moving goods packed on pallets or in ... Stacking empty pallets * Performing daily equipment checks such as watering the truck's battery

Rockwool

Material Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Unloading raw materials from trucks or rail containers * Moving goods packed on pallets or in ... Stacking empty pallets * Performing daily equipment checks such as watering the truck's battery

ROCKWOOL

Material Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Unloading raw materials from trucks or rail containers * Moving goods packed on pallets or in ... Stacking empty pallets * Performing daily equipment checks such as watering the truck's battery

Inmar

Controlled Substance Material Handler

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Open boxes (or other containers) of returned/recalled items with a box cutter may contain both ... Stock empty totes at scanning lines and remove trash from scanning area as directed * Always ...

Clean Harbors

Material Handler

Elgin, IL · On-site

$14.42 - $28.85/hr

Ensures all waste and containers are in acceptable shipping condition and organized for transport ... Empty and fill drums of solvent mineral spirits * Perform minor repairs on parts washers at the ...

Safety-Kleen

Material Handler

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Ensures all waste and containers are in acceptable shipping condition and organized for transport ... Empty and fill drums of solvent mineral spirits * Perform minor repairs on parts washers at the ...

Clean Harbors

Material Handler

Elgin, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Ensures all waste and containers are in acceptable shipping condition and organized for transport ... Empty and fill drums of solvent mineral spirits * Perform minor repairs on parts washers at the ...

AdminAsst.

Postal Mail Sorters

Rockford, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Postal Service Mail Sorters/Handlers: Assist in the movement and/or processing of mail within a postal facility. Distribute mail into the zones for release of mail. Empty mail from mail containers ...

CleanHarbors

Material Handler

Elgin, IL

$16.50 - $20/hr

Ensures all waste and containers are in acceptable shipping condition and organized for transport ... Empty and fill drums of solvent mineral spirits * Perform minor repairs on parts washers at the ...

Clean Harbors

Material Handler

Elgin, IL

$16.50 - $20/hr

Ensures all waste and containers are in acceptable shipping condition and organized for transport ... Empty and fill drums of solvent mineral spirits * Perform minor repairs on parts washers at the ...

AdminAsst.

Postal Mail Sorters

Rockford, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

... Sorters/Handlers: Assist in the movement and/or processing of mail within a postal facility. Distribute mail into the zones for release of mail. Empty mail from mail containers (bags, hampers) and ...

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All JobsEmpty Container Handler JobsEmpty Container Handler Jobs in Illinois

Empty Container Handler information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do empty container handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for empty container handler in Illinois is $17.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an empty container handler?

An Empty Container Handler operates specialized forklifts or container handlers to move, stack, and organize empty shipping containers in ports, warehouses, or storage yards. They ensure containers are properly positioned for transportation, repair, or reuse. The role requires strong attention to safety procedures and efficient handling techniques. Operators must be skilled in maneuvering heavy equipment in fast-paced environments.

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

To excel as an Empty Container Handler, you need experience with heavy equipment operation, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with terminal operating systems, safety certifications such as OSHA training, and proficiency in operating reach stackers or forklifts are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced team environment help set candidates apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient movement and tracking of containers, minimizing downtime and errors in busy shipping yards or ports.

What are some typical challenges faced by empty container handlers, and how are they addressed on the job?

Empty Container Handlers often work in dynamic environments where quick decision-making and adaptability are essential, especially when dealing with tight schedules or changing weather conditions. Managing large, heavy containers safely requires full attention to safety protocols and coordination with other team members, such as crane operators and supervisors. Regular maintenance checks and ongoing safety training help address the risks associated with equipment operation. Teamwork and clear communication make overcoming these challenges more manageable and ensure a smooth workflow throughout the day.

What are popular job titles related to Empty Container Handler jobs in Illinois?

For Empty Container Handler jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Empty Container Handler jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Empty Container Handler jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Empty Container Handler jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Empty Container Handler job openings:

Empty Container Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Empty Container Handler job openings in Illinois as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,216 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Material Handler

Columbia, IL • On-site

SMS Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about SMS Staffingexternal

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

SMS Staffing is hiring immediately for Material Handlers in Columbia, IL 
 

JOB TITLE: Material Handler
LOCATION: Columbia, IL
JOB TYPE: Temp to Hire
PAY: $18/hr++ (depending on experience)

1st SHIFT: 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Monday to Thursday) 
2nd SHIFT: 4:30 PM to 3:00 AM (Monday - Thursday)

The role of a Material Handler:
● Safely handle, store, label, load, and unload materials
● Pull, transport, and put away for Production
● Label containers and store materials in racks, shelves, and floor locations
● Operate forklift, reach truck, power pallet jack, drum dollies, and manual pallet jacks
● Load empty/dirty recon drums onto trailers as requested
● Maintain material accuracy through cycle counts and physical inventories
● Complete required paperwork and follow all trained procedures
● Report safety concerns immediately and wear required PPE

Qualification requirements for the Material Handler:
● Sit down and stand up Forklift experience required (1+ year)
● Reach truck and RF scanner experience required
● Must be able to work overtime
● Comfortable wearing a respiratory mask
● Ability to read, write, and speak English
● Maintain clean work areas and assist line personnel as needed
● Follow all safety policies and complete assigned tasks

Join the SMS Staffing team! It takes more than top-notch facilities, modern equipment, and innovative technologies to become our customers’ most trusted supplier. It takes people who are committed to our customers' success and who are willing to go the extra mile to get the job done right.
 

#SMS

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