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Freight Handler Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Paris, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Material Handler

Paris, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Material Handler

Paris, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Material Handler

Paris, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Material Handler

Paris, KY

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Material Handler

Paris, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Material Handler

Paris, KY

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Material Handler

Paris, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report ...

Material Handler Job Details Schedule: Wednesday-Saturday, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM. Pay Rate : $18.00/hr Location : Covington, KY Material Handler Requirements/Qualifications * Must be able to speak, read ...

Material Handler

Florence, KY · On-site

$47K - $70K/yr

The Material Handler will safely and accurately receive, transport, and ship materials and finished ... Maintain completed receiving information including all freight bills, packing lists, purchase ...

Material Handler Job Details Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM-2:30 PM Pay Rate: $17.00/hr Location : Florence, KY Material Handler Requirements/Qualifications * Must have computer experience. * RF ...

Package Handler

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Package Handler Immediate need for a talented Package Handler with experience in the Supply Chain Industry. This is a 6+ months contract opportunity with long-term potential and is located in ...

Package Handler

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Package Handler Immediate need for a talented Package Handler with experience in the Supply Chain Industry. This is a 6+ months contract opportunity with long-term potential and is located in ...

Material Handler

Lexington, KY · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Material Handler Benefits: Compensation: $19.00 - $20.00/hr. pay (depending on shift) Position Type: Temporary to full-time hire position Schedule: Second shift: Monday - Friday, 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM ...

Material Handler Lexington, KY Pay: $20.00/hour Full-Time | 2nd Shift Schedule Information * Monday-Friday * 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM Material Handler Requirements * High school diploma or equivalent ...

K9 Handler

Hebron, KY · On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

The Handler will be required to complete a 4-8 weeks minimum team training course and certification prior to mobilization to the assigned location. RESPONSIBILITIES * Participate in CCSP related ...

K9 Handler

Hebron, KY · On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

The Handler will be required to complete a 4-8 weeks minimum team training course and certification prior to mobilization to the assigned location. RESPONSIBILITIES * Participate in CCSP related ...

Showing results 21-40

Freight Handler information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do freight handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight handler in Kentucky is $14.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a freight handler a hard job?

A freight handler job involves physically lifting, moving, and organizing heavy goods, which can be physically demanding and require stamina. It often requires working in a fast-paced environment, sometimes with irregular hours, and may involve operating equipment like forklifts. The job's difficulty depends on individual fitness and experience with manual labor and safety procedures.

What is the difference between Freight Handler vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectFreight HandlerWarehouse Worker
CredentialsNone specific, OSHA safety training often requiredNone specific, OSHA safety training often required
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading freight at docks, shipping yardsOrganizing, storing, and managing inventory in warehouses
Industry UsageTransport, logistics, shipping companiesWarehousing, distribution centers, retail logistics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Freight Handlers and Warehouse Workers operate within logistics and shipping environments, Freight Handlers primarily focus on loading and unloading freight at docks, whereas Warehouse Workers manage inventory and organize storage within warehouses. Both roles often require OSHA safety training but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freight handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freight Handler, you need strong physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), pallet jacks, forklifts, and barcode scanners is typically required, and OSHA certification may be preferred. Reliability, teamwork, and good communication are valuable soft skills that help manage fast-paced, physically demanding environments. These combined abilities are crucial for ensuring the accurate and efficient movement of goods, workplace safety, and overall supply chain effectiveness.

What are some common challenges freight handlers face, and how can they be managed effectively?

Freight Handlers often encounter challenges such as handling heavy or awkward loads, working in fast-paced environments, and managing time during peak shipping periods. To manage these effectively, it’s essential to use proper lifting techniques, stay organized, and communicate clearly with team members. Many companies provide safety training and encourage collaboration to ensure efficiency and reduce the risk of injury, making teamwork and attention to detail crucial for success in this role.

What is a freight handler?

A freight handler makes sure cargo transport operations go smoothly for merchandise warehouses. The qualifications you need for this career are a high school diploma, physical stamina, and a strong work ethic. Previous experience with warehouse work is beneficial. As a freight handler, your job duties are loading and unloading truck trailers, guiding truck drivers into loading docks, using forklifts and other equipment, and keeping detailed freight records. You need strong teamwork skills, safety awareness, and organizational skills.

How much does a freight handler earn?

A freight handler typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced handlers or those working in high-demand areas can earn higher wages. Many freight handlers also receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What does a freight handler do?

A Freight Handler is responsible for loading, unloading, and moving freight within warehouses, distribution centers, or shipping/receiving docks. They ensure that goods are safely and efficiently transferred between trucks, trains, ships, and storage areas. Freight Handlers often use equipment like forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand trucks to move heavy or bulky items. Their work is crucial to keeping supply chains running smoothly and making sure products reach their destination on time.
What are the most commonly searched types of Freight Handler jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Freight Handler jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Freight Handler jobs in Kentucky? For Freight Handler jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Freight Handler jobs in KY? For Freight Handler jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Freight Handler job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,180 per year, or $15 per hour.

Material Handler

Avantor Inc.

Paris, KY • On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Avantor rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

The Opportunity:
Avantor is seeking a Material Handler for the Paris, KY site. This position is a day shift, Monday - Thursday (A shift), hours: 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
The Material Handler works under limited supervision, is responsible for executing required tasks relating to the receiving (where applicable), handling, preparation, storage, and inventory finished good and raw materials using a variety of tools and equipment. Ensures timeliness and accuracy in the receiving, delivery and preparation of materials.
Reports to department supervisor or designate. Under general supervision, receives and verifies all materials, including raw materials, intermediates, supplies, returned goods and samples for areas/departments of responsibility. Looks for and reports discrepancies. Monitors and properly maintains inventory, storage and warehousing for designated departments/areas. Transfers and/or issues requested materials to appropriate areas. As applicable, prepares materials for shipment.

What we're looking for

  • Education: High School education or GED

  • OSHA Forklift and HAZMAT certification a plus

  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be able to use proper techniques to lift up to 50 pounds. The ability to follow directions with emphasis on safety is extremely important.

  • Must be able to handle stress caused in meeting deadlines with tight scheduling requirements.

  • Must be able to shift priorities easily.

  • Must be able to use hands and feet simultaneously and for repetitive movements.

  • Must have responsible work habits.

  • Familiar with warehouse systems (SAP)

  • Computer skills a plus

How you will thrive

Warehouse Operator' essential duties are to perform various tasks in the warehouse such as but not limited to:

  • Inbound: Unload trucks, trailers, containers of freight, counting products, compare to manifest to check all shipments for damage, infestation, or production code dates. Material handlers must report shortages, damages, and mis-shipments on appropriate forms. Also be able to sign for inbound shipments when necessary. All inbound shipments are moved safely to storage locations to be efficiently stacked as store merchandise.

  • Order Picking: Ensure that the correct product number, quantity and type (lot, batch, serial number) of product are picked. Transport orders to shipping locations or delivery platforms with material handling equipment such as but not limited to fork trucks, cherry pickers, or pallet jacks. Materials handlers must be able to label, stencil, tag, mark orders, band, bundle, wrap, over-pack, and palletize as required.

  • Equipment: Maintain equipment in a neat, clean and orderly fashion. Operate equipment safely and efficiently. Comply with company standards and OSHA requirements.

  • Inventory: Keep accurate records and reports. Assist in physical inventories and cycle counts. Ensure proper stock rotation. May key inventory adjustments in computer.

  • Other Duties: Repair and consolidate damaged goods as required. Operate shrink-wrap machine. Charge forklift battery as needed; stack and or separate good from bad pallets when necessary; clean trailers, and truck docks, bays as requested.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.


LANGUAGE SKILLS:
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret SOP's, coverage, documents, and regulations. Ability to write reports and business correspondence. Ability to effectively establish rapport, present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers and the public. Skill and ability to meet people and listen.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:
Ability to add and subtract two digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's. Ability to perform these operations using units of American money and weight measurement, volume, and distance. Understanding of metric system measurements is beneficial.

REASONING ABILITY:
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed and uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

OTHER:
Skill and ability to type. Skill and ability to operate a computer. Skill and ability to organize and prioritize work. Skill and ability to meet deadlines and operate office equipment. Skill and ability to use Microsoft office tools and company software.

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL EFFORT (Under Typical Positions)

The work environment characteristics and physical effort described here are representative of those an associate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the associate is exposed to an industrial warehouse environment. The associate works near moving mechanical machinery and noise level in the work environment is usually loud. The job requires working in heights, exposure to changes in temperature, driving equipment, and maybe exposed to dust, fumes, or gases.

The associate is required to stand and walk for the majority of the working day. The physical requirements of the job are for associates to talk, hear, bend/stoop, squat, crawl, climb height, reach above shoulder height, crouch, kneel, balance, and push/pull. Furthermore, the job requires associates to lift/carry/push or pull up to 75 pounds with or without assistance. Associates use both hands for repetitive actions such as grasping and manipulating as well as both feet for repetitive movement operating foots controls. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Disclaimer:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Why Avantor?

Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life-changing science.
The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world. Apply today!

EEO Statement:

We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at recruiting@avantorsciences.comand let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please view the Know Your Rights poster.

Privacy Policy:

We will use the personal information that you have submitted to us in order to consider your application for the relevant role.

Your privacy is important to us. Please click here for our Privacy Policy which explains the purposes for which we will use your personal information and the ways in which we will handle and retain your information. It also explains the rights you have in relation to your information, and how to contact us with any queries or requests.

3rd Party Non-Solicitation Policy:

By submitting candidates without having been formally assigned on and contracted for a specific job requisition by Avantor, or by failing to comply with the Avantor recruitment process, you forfeit any fee on the submitted candidates, regardless of your usual terms and conditions. Avantor works with a preferred supplier list and will take the initiative to engage with recruitment agencies based on its needs and will not be accepting any form of solicitation.


What Avantor employees say

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About Avantor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Avantor, our ICARE Values are our core set of principles that guide and focus the Company's strategy.: Innovation; customer centric; accountability; respect; excellence! Avantor is committed to creating a fully inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and provides equitable opportunities for all associates to grow and succeed. While setting science in motion our employees can join employee focus groups.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Radnor, PA, US

Year founded

1904

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