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Hazardous Material Handler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Riverside, CA

$18.25 - $22/hr

Material Handler The Material Handler supports manufacturing operations by accurately pulling ... Safely handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with company policies and safety ...

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Material Handler

Rancho Cordova, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $21/hr

As a Material Handler, you will be responsible for performing general labor tasks, warehouse ... Maintain a clean, organized and hazard-free work area. * Follow all safety standards and protocols.

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Material Handler

Rancho Cordova, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $21/hr

As a Material Handler, you will be responsible for performing general labor tasks, warehouse ... Maintain a clean, organized and hazard-free work area. * Follow all safety standards and protocols.

Material Handler III

Chatsworth, CA ยท On-site

$21.75/hr

A Brief Overview The Material Handler III oversees advanced material handling and coordination ... Hazardous and Non-Hazardous Materials โ€ข Manage Customer Audits โ€ข Communicates raw material ...

Material Handler III

Chatsworth, CA

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

A Brief Overview The Material Handler III oversees advanced material handling and coordination ... Hazardous and Non-Hazardous Materials ยท Manage Customer Audits ยท Communicates raw material ...

Material Handler II

Perris, CA ยท On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Material Handler Under general supervision, handles and maintains the flow of materials and ... Work is performed within a production environment, subject to temperature variations, hazardous ...

Material Handler

Vacaville, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Material Handler Location: Vacaville, CA 95688 Duration: 6 Months Job Type: Temporary Assignment ... May handle packaged hazardous materials. * Must be flexible to work varying schedules, overtime ...

Material Handler

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$47.62 - $52.77/hr

... hazards, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. Through a strong commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence, Material Handlers help ensure materials are ...

Material Handler I

Tracy, CA ยท On-site

$22/hr

Material Handler I SUMMARY: Under close supervision, the Material Handler performs physical and ... Certified to handle hazardous material shipments. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: No Supervisory ...

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Material Handler I

Tracy, CA ยท On-site

$22/hr

Material Handler I SUMMARY: Under close supervision, the Material Handler performs physical and ... Certified to handle hazardous material shipments. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: No Supervisory ...

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Material Handler

Oceanside, CA ยท On-site

$23.30 - $25.75/hr

Material Handler JELD-WEN is currently seeking a Material Handler to join our growing team. Job ... Hazards: Forklift, noise, banding, dust, battery charging station/refueling station, employees

Material Handler This role ensures the accurate movement, storage, and documentation of materials ... Strong safety awareness and commitment to maintaining a clean and hazard-free work area. * Ability ...

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Hazardous Material Handler information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do hazardous material handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for hazardous material handler in California is $17.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hazardous material handler?

Hazardous material handlers are professionals trained to safely manage, transport, store, and dispose of materials that pose risks to health, safety, or the environment. These materials can include chemicals, radioactive substances, or biohazards. Handlers follow strict regulations and safety procedures to prevent accidents, spills, or contamination. They often work in industries such as manufacturing, waste management, and emergency response, ensuring compliance with government and environmental protection standards.

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

To thrive as a Hazardous Material Handler, you need knowledge of safe material handling procedures, regulatory compliance (such as OSHA and DOT standards), and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and sometimes a HAZWOPER certification are important technical requirements. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure safety and efficiency in hazardous environments. These skills and qualifications are vital to prevent accidents, protect health, and comply with environmental and safety regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by hazardous material handlers, and how are they addressed on the job?

Hazardous Material Handlers frequently encounter challenges such as ensuring strict compliance with safety regulations, properly identifying and segregating different hazardous substances, and maintaining up-to-date documentation. These challenges are managed through comprehensive safety training, use of specialized protective equipment, and regular coordination with safety officers and environmental compliance teams. Additionally, robust protocols and clear communication within the team help mitigate risks and ensure that all hazardous materials are handled, transported, and disposed of according to legal and company standards.

What is the difference between Hazardous Material Handler vs Material Handler?

AspectHazardous Material HandlerMaterial Handler
CertificationsHazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER), OSHA trainingForklift certification, OSHA general safety training
Work EnvironmentHandling, storing, and disposing of hazardous materials in industrial, warehouse, or waste management settingsMoving, loading, and organizing general cargo in warehouses or distribution centers
Industry UsageIndustries dealing with chemicals, waste management, manufacturingRetail, logistics, manufacturing

The main difference is that Hazardous Material Handlers specialize in managing hazardous substances with specific safety certifications, while Material Handlers focus on general cargo movement without handling hazardous materials. Both roles are essential in logistics and industrial settings but require different training and safety protocols.

How do you become a hazardous material handler?

To become a hazardous material handler, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete specialized training on handling, storage, and safety procedures for hazardous materials. Certification such as OSHA HAZWOPER is often required, and workers should be familiar with safety equipment and regulations to ensure proper handling in hazardous environments.

Is hazardous material handling a good career?

Hazardous material handling is a stable career that involves safely managing and disposing of dangerous substances, often requiring safety training and certifications. It offers opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, transportation, and waste management, with potential for advancement and steady employment. However, it also involves physical work and exposure to risks, so proper safety procedures are essential.

What are popular job titles related to Hazardous Material Handler jobs in California?

For Hazardous Material Handler jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hazardous Material Handler jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Hazardous Material Handler jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Hazardous Material Handler jobs?

Cities in California with the most Hazardous Material Handler job openings:

Infographic showing various Hazardous Material Handler job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,390 per year, or $18 per hour.

Material Handler

Long Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

Goodwill Southern Los Angeles County
51 - 200 employees

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Material Handler
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:
The Material Handler is to assist in all phases of dock operations. The Material Handler reports to the Dock Lead and Senior Manager of Logistics and Aftermarket.
Exemplary Duties / Responsibilities:
  • The Material Handler Keeps the dock area clean and in a safe condition. Assist with unloading trucks and trailers.
  • Keeping the dock area organized.
  • Delivers full bins to respective areas.
  • Responsible for meeting deadlines and responding to special needs.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull at least 20 lbs.
  • Reports all safety hazards to the department manager.
  • Attends General Assembly, Department, and Safety meetings as required.
  • Cooperate with the Lead, Transportation Manager, and co-workers.
  • Responsible for other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education/Experience:
  • One to two years of positive work history preferably warehouse experience.
Knowledge & Skills:
  • Fluent communication skills, both verbal and written in English.
  • Ability to understand simple instructions.
Desirable Qualifications:
  • Bilingual is a plus.
  • Ability to meet deadlines and respond to special needs.
  • Ability to process materials safely, efficiently, and securely.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull at least 20 lbs.
  • Must have quantity and quality of work performed.
Core Competencies:
To perform the job successfully an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
  • Ethics - Consistently demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and alignment with Goodwill's core values in all workplace interactions and decisions.
  • Technical Skills & Initiative - Effectively applies required tools and systems, seeks opportunities to improve skills, and takes initiative to support team and operational needs.
  • Safe Material Handling - Follows proper lifting techniques; uses safe practices during loading/unloading; reports hazards promptly; maintains safety in all operations.
  • Dock Organization & Cleanliness - Keeps dock space clean, clutter-free, and well-organized to support efficient loading/unloading and safe working conditions.
  • Time Management & Reliability - Completes assigned tasks within required timeframes; meets daily deadlines; demonstrates punctuality and consistency.
  • Communication & Team Coordination - Communicates clearly with dock leads, drivers, and peers; follows instructions accurately; responds appropriately to feedback.
  • Task Flexibility & Responsiveness - Adapts quickly to changing priorities or urgent needs; handles special tasks assigned without sacrificing performance on core duties.
  • Equipment Awareness - Uses carts, bins, or handling tools properly; identifies when equipment is damaged or unsafe; reports issues to management.
  • Interpersonal Skills - Works Well with others, receives and gives constructive feedback.

This job specification should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standard of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required by their supervisor.