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Entry Level Container Handler Operator Jobs in Jonesboro, AR

Equipment Operator

Paragould, AR

$18 - $24.50/hr

As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of different ... handlers and Volvo front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move ...

Equipment Operator

Paragould, AR · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of different ... handlers and Volvo front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move ...

Entry Level Container Handler Operator information

See Jonesboro, AR salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do entry level container handler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level container handler operator in Jonesboro, AR is $18.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Container Handler Operator vs Dock Worker?

AspectEntry Level Container Handler OperatorDock Worker
Required CertificationsForklift and container handling certificationsBasic safety and OSHA training
Work EnvironmentPort terminals, container yards, shipping docksLoading/unloading ships, trucks, and trains at docks
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, logistics companiesShipping, freight, and logistics industries

Both roles operate in port and shipping environments, but the Entry Level Container Handler Operator specifically focuses on operating container handling equipment like forklifts and cranes, requiring specialized certifications. Dock Workers perform manual loading and unloading tasks, often without specialized equipment operation certifications. The roles are complementary but differ mainly in technical skills and responsibilities.

Equipment Operator

$18 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 70 rated recycling and waste


Job description

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a diligent, reliable and talented individual to join our team as a Equipment Operator. As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of different types of heavy equipment such as Liebherr or Sennebogen material handlers and Volvo front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard.

This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Eligible for Safety and Performance Bonuses
  • Comprehensive benefits including affordable medical options, dental and vision care
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Growth opportunities and promotions from within
  • Weekly Pay
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE

Responsibilities of an Equipment Operator         

  • Preform pre- and post- operations inspections of assigned equipment according to Company policy to ensure windows, lights, mirrors, review cameras, and safety features are clean and operable.
  • Continuously check the condition of the equipment to ensure it is always operationally ready to minimize production downtime.
  • Determine load weights and verify against lifting abilities to prevent overloads and dangerous situations.
  • Safe and efficient operations of the assigned machine to move vehicles for decommissioning, debris to proper storage site, and the loading of trucks and/or train cars.
  • Aid in yard organization to help meet targeted production goals.
  • Preform routine maintenance functions of assigned machine (fueling, lubricating, and cleaning).
  • Perform daily loader inspections and report any concerns, defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.

Qualifications of Equipment Operator

  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 1 years’ experience running Volvo front end loaders and/or Liebherr or Sennebogen material handlers in the scrap metal, waste, or demolition industries preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to carry out instructions provided in written or oral form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.

Physical Requirements:

  • Work environment:  Scrap metal recycling
  • Equipment & Tools:  Metal processing equipment, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools
  • Physical Demand Level:  Light to Moderate
  • Work Capacity:  Equipment Operator
  • Sensory Demands:  Hearing, vision, touch and smell
  • Hand movements:  Repetitive motions, gripping

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified). 

All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.


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