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Intermodal Lift Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Intermodal Lift Operator information

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$12

$18

$22

How much do intermodal lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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 some 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Intermodal Lift Operator, and why are they important?

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 are Intermodal Lift Operators?

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:
What job categories do people searching Intermodal Lift Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Intermodal Lift Operator jobs are:

Intermodal Equipment Operator

ConGlobal

Lyons, IL

$22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


ConGlobal rating

4.6

Company rating: 4.6 out of 10

Based on 14 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: 26664 Elwood International Port Road Elwood, IL 60421

💲 Starting Pay: $22.50/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 an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You’ll operate specialized equipment—such as hostlers, cranes, top loaders, and side loaders—to load, unload, and relocate containers as part of our daily logistics operations. Your work ensures containers are handled accurately and safely, keeping freight moving on time.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate heavy equipment to load and unload shipping containers from railcars and trucks.

  • Drive hostlers to position containers and chassis within the yard.

  • Use top loaders, side loaders, and/or cranes to stack, move, and organize containers.

  • Perform equipment inspections before and after use to ensure operational safety.

  • Communicate with yard personnel and supervisors to coordinate moves and tasks.

  • Maintain a safe work environment by following established protocols and procedures.

Qualifications:

  • Previous experience operating heavy equipment or machinery in a logistics or industrial environment preferred
  • Strong commitment to safety and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
  • Willingness to work flexible schedules, including weekends and holidays.
  • Basic communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • Ability to climb ladders and stairs both off and on railcars
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Must pass a pre-employment background verification, physical 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

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in intermodal or rail yard operations.

  • Familiarity with container handling equipment such as hostlers, top loaders, or cranes.

  • CDL or equipment certifications a plus, but not required.

We offer competitive pay, medical/dental/vision benefits, 401(k), paid training, career advancement and more.


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