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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 ...

Illinois Tool Works

Material Handler 1

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Organize empty tubs and wire carriers into cargo boxes * Reads product processing form or follows ... Prepares purchase blanks for shipments by removing from container and dumping parts into bins and ...

ITW Shakeproof

Material Handler 1

Machesney Park, IL

$19 - $22/hr

Organize empty tubs and wire carriers into cargo boxes * Reads product processing form or follows ... Prepares purchase blanks for shipments by removing from container and dumping parts into bins and ...

Clean Harbors

Material Handler

Elgin, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Safety-Kleen

Material Handler

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$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

$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

$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

$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

$15.14 - $30.29/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 ...

Mondi AG

Material Handler 3rd Shift

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$19.50/hr

Load all outgoing shipments from the materials warehouse. (scrap containers, empty ink drums, empty totes, Coating Excellence). * Perform monthly inventories of paper, poly, narrow reels, poly ...

Mondi AG

Material Handler 3rd Shift

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$19.50/hr

Load all outgoing shipments from the materials warehouse. (scrap containers, empty ink drums, empty totes, Coating Excellence). * Perform monthly inventories of paper, poly, narrow reels, poly ...

Mondi AG

Material Handler 3rd Shift

Romeoville, IL

$19.50/hr

Load all outgoing shipments from the materials warehouse. (scrap containers, empty ink drums, empty totes, Coating Excellence). * Perform monthly inventories of paper, poly, narrow reels, poly ...

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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 Aug 2, 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 brands are empty container handlers?

Popular brands of empty container handlers include Kalmar, Hyster, Terex, and Liebherr. These manufacturers produce reach stackers and container handling equipment used in ports and logistics facilities, often requiring operator certification and safety training.

What is an Empty Container Handler job?

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 in the Empty Container Handler position, and why are they important?

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

Empty Container Handlers typically do not reach $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles, specialized engineering positions, or senior management in logistics and shipping industries. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, and significant experience. Most roles in this field have lower average salaries, with top executives earning the highest compensation.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

An Empty Container Handler operator can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, especially in roles requiring certification and operating heavy machinery in logistics or port environments. High-paying roles in skilled trades, such as crane or forklift operators, may also reach this level without a college degree, provided they have proper training and licensing.

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

Getting a job as an Empty Container Handler typically requires relevant experience, safety certifications, and sometimes a background in logistics or warehouse operations. Entry-level positions may be available, but higher-skilled roles often demand specific training and physical fitness, making some positions more competitive than others.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,216 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Material Handler

SMS Staffing

Columbia, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 2 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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