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Empty Container Handler Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Material Handler 2

Plainfield, IL ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Gather and empty trash. Service, clean, and supply restrooms. Clean and polish furniture and ... Mix water and detergents or acids in containers to prepare cleaning solutions, according to ...

Empty all trash containers regularly, stock bussing and serving stations. * Learn and maintain ... Food Handler Certification, Alcohol Awareness Certification. * Knowledge or ability to learn the ...

RELIEF TECHNICIAN on 2nd shift

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... Handler position, the Hanger position and the Final Inspector/Packer position. NOTE: Wearing ... Places broken/discarded glass in waste container. Replaces O-rings on the rollers and replaces ...

RELIEF TECHNICIAN on 2nd shift

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... Handler position, the Hanger position and the Final Inspector/Packer position. NOTE: Wearing ... Places broken/discarded glass in waste container. Replaces O-rings on the rollers and replaces ...

Showing results 21-40

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 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:

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.

Forklift / Material Handler

Vernon Hills, IL โ€ข On-site

Precision Resource
Motor Vehicle Manufacturingย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Precision Resource seeks Forklift / Material Handers to join our well-established Vernon Hills, IL manufacturing division supporting production needs both on and off forklifts. We're a small-medium sized division of our solid, privately held, global company that innovates and manufactures a high volume of metal parts for automotive, aerospace, hardware and other industries.
You'll Have
  • 4-day work week, Mon-Thur, plus some overtime availability.
  • Generous PTO supporting our work-life balance culture.
  • Opportunity to learn multiple areas of the operation, and tuition reimbursement.
  • Competitive compensation package with excellent benefits.
  • Annual bonus potential.
  • Collaborative culture with approachable, positive leaders across all departments.
  • Smaller company culture with the best features of being a part of our larger company.

Essential Duties
  • Operate sit-down and stand-up forklifts safely and proficiently.
  • Supply and remove large coils, pallets, parts, and machine tools to/from workstations.
  • Work involves material movement both off and on forklifts.
  • Read and accurately update material movement records manually and using computer.
  • Weigh/Record/Empty scrap containers and deliver to outside scrap hoppers.
  • Load / Unload trailers safely with forklift or pallet jacks.
  • Label and stage material in racks according to job priorities using overhead hoist.
  • Maintain housekeeping wherever possible.
  • Very reliable and punctual attendance.
  • Apply self-motivation to achieve excellent productivity starting at $19-$21 hourly with annual pay increases and bonus potential.

Qualification
  • High School graduate or equivalent with ability to read, write, and communicate in English, Bilingual preferred but not required, and use basic math.
  • One year minimum safe forklift driving experience required, ideally including loading and unloading trucks.
  • Ideally, experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.
  • Ability to lift or move up to 45 pounds safely.
  • Ability to accurately apply basic computer data entry level skills.
  • Absolutely reliable attendance, great energy, and attentive.