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Intermodal Lift Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intermodal Equipment Operator

La Salle, MI · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Dundee, MI · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Waterville, OH · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Deerfield, MI · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Toledo, OH · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Riga, MI · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Toledo, OH · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Toledo, OH · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Toledo, OH · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Newport, MI · On-site

$18.82 - $20.93/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars * Valid ...

Showing results 21-40

Intermodal Lift Operator information

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$12

$18

$22

How much do intermodal lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for intermodal lift operator in the United States is $18.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced by intermodal lift operators, and how can they be addressed?

Intermodal Lift Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple teams to ensure the smooth transfer of containers between rail, truck, and ship, and working in all weather conditions. Efficient communication and attention to safety protocols are essential, as the job requires precision when operating heavy machinery in busy terminals. Operators can address these challenges by staying up-to-date with training, participating in regular safety briefings, and fostering strong teamwork with dispatchers, drivers, and yard staff. Proactively reporting equipment issues and adhering to established procedures also help minimize disruptions and maintain a safe, productive work environment.

What is the difference between Intermodal Lift Operator vs Container Crane Operator?

AspectIntermodal Lift OperatorContainer Crane Operator
CredentialsTypically requires OSHA certification, forklift or crane operation licensesRequires crane operation certification, OSHA certification
Work EnvironmentPorts, rail yards, intermodal terminalsContainer yards, port terminals, shipyards
Job DutiesOperate forklifts and yard trucks to move containers within intermodal facilitiesOperate cranes to load/unload containers from ships or trucks
Industry UsageCommonly employed in intermodal transportation and logisticsPrimarily used in maritime shipping and port operations

While both roles involve handling containers in port environments, the Intermodal Lift Operator primarily uses forklifts and yard trucks within intermodal facilities, whereas the Container Crane Operator operates large cranes to load and unload ships. Both require safety certifications and are essential in port logistics, but they focus on different equipment and work settings.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an intermodal lift operator?

To thrive as an Intermodal Lift Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized equipment training. Familiarity with intermodal cranes, container handling systems, and safety protocols, as well as relevant certifications such as OSHA, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with yard personnel and ensuring safety. These capabilities are essential for efficient, safe, and precise loading and unloading of cargo in high-traffic environments.

What is an intermodal lift operator?

Intermodal Lift Operators are specialized workers responsible for moving shipping containers between different modes of transportation, such as trains, trucks, and ships, within intermodal terminals or ports. They use heavy equipment like cranes, reach stackers, or forklifts to safely and efficiently handle containers, ensuring they are loaded and unloaded according to schedules and safety regulations. Their work is crucial for maintaining the flow of goods in global supply chains, reducing shipping times, and minimizing cargo handling costs.
More about Intermodal Lift Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Intermodal Lift Operator jobs? Cities with the most Intermodal Lift Operator job openings:
What states have the most Intermodal Lift Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Intermodal Lift Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Intermodal Lift Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,182 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Terminal Operator - Apprentice - Ramp

ConGlobal

Austell, GA • On-site

$18.49/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


ConGlobal rating

4.3

Company rating: 4.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Launch Your Career with ConGlobal 

ConGlobal is hiring immediately for a key role in our global supply chain operations. Whether you’re looking to grow your career or gain new skills, this role offers paid trainingcompetitive payexcellent benefits, and long-term advancement opportunities.

📍 Location: 6000 Dr. Luke Glenn Garrett, Jr. Memorial Hwy, Austell, GA 30106

💲 Starting Pay: $18.49/hour    

🕐 Status: Full-Time | Immediate Hire

🕔 Schedule: Open availability required, including all shifts, weekends, and holidays.

🚗 IMPORTANT: A VALID DRIVER’S LICENSE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION 🚗
          Applications without a valid driver’s license will not be considered.

About the Role:

As a Terminal Operator, you'll be responsible for safely and efficiently unloading, loading, and repositioning intermodal containers within our depot yard. Using a top-lift or side loader, you'll help minimize driver wait times and keep yard operations running smoothly. This position plays a key role in ensuring proper container and chassis placement, supporting both gate operations and equipment repair teams.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate top-lift and/or side-loader equipment to move containers within the yard.
  • Load and unload intermodal containers from and onto chassis.
  • Stack and unstack containers and chassis according to the established yard plan.
  • Coordinate with gate personnel to assist drivers dropping off or picking up equipment.
  • Support the maintenance team by moving equipment for repairs or inspections.
  • Perform routine safety checks and report any equipment issues or safety concerns.
  • Follow all site safety protocols and contribute to a clean, organized yard environment.

Required Qualifications:

  • Experience operating top-lift, side loader, or similar heavy equipment.
  • Strong attention to safety and situational awareness.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Good communication skills and a teamwork-oriented attitude.
  • Ability to always follow safety requirements and practices.
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Must pass a pre-employment background verification and drug screening
    • The Federal Rail Administration sets and enforces safety regulations and standards for railroad operations. If applicable for the position you are applying to, and if you are offered the position, you will have to take and pass a drug screen. 
  • Open availability

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