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Internship Empty Container Handler Operator Jobs in Wausau, WI

Internship Empty Container Handler Operator information

See Wausau, WI salary details

$10

$19

$26

How much do internship empty container handler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship empty container handler operator in Wausau, WI is $19.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an internship empty container handler operator do?

An Internship Empty Container Handler Operator assists in operating heavy machinery designed to move and stack empty shipping containers in ports, warehouses, or logistics centers. Interns in this role typically learn how to safely maneuver container handling equipment, conduct basic inspections, and follow safety protocols. They may also support experienced operators with routine maintenance, documentation, and organization of container yards. This internship provides hands-on experience and insight into logistics operations and equipment handling.

What are the main responsibilities and learning opportunities for an intern working as an empty container handler operator?

As an intern Empty Container Handler Operator, you'll be responsible for assisting with the safe movement and organization of empty shipping containers within a terminal or warehouse setting. This includes tasks like operating container handling equipment under supervision, performing routine equipment checks, and ensuring containers are properly logged and stored. The internship offers valuable exposure to logistics operations, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols. You'll typically collaborate closely with supervisors, experienced operators, and logistics coordinators, gaining hands-on experience and insight into supply chain management. This role can be a great stepping stone for career advancement in logistics and terminal operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship empty container handler operator, and why are they important?

To excel as an Internship Empty Container Handler Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical knowledge, and a valid forklift or heavy equipment operator certification. Familiarity with container handling equipment, safety protocols, and terminal operating systems is usually required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to follow instructions make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate movement of containers in busy port or warehouse environments.

What is the difference between Internship Empty Container Handler Operator vs Entry-Level Crane Operator?

AspectInternship Empty Container Handler OperatorEntry-Level Crane Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a forklift or container handling certification, possibly some trainingRequires crane operation certification or license, often with similar training
Work EnvironmentPorts, container yards, shipping terminalsConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, port authorities, logistics firmsConstruction companies, shipping ports, industrial plants
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles in container handlingCompared for similar crane operation roles in logistics and construction

The Internship Empty Container Handler Operator and Entry-Level Crane Operator roles share similarities in required certifications and work environments, both involving handling heavy equipment in port or industrial settings. However, the internship is typically a training position aimed at gaining experience, while the entry-level crane operator is a full-fledged role requiring certification and more responsibility.

What are popular job titles related to Internship Empty Container Handler Operator jobs in Wausau, WI?

For Internship Empty Container Handler Operator jobs in Wausau, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Internship Empty Container Handler Operator jobs in Wausau, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Internship Empty Container Handler Operator jobs in Wausau, WI are:

What cities near Wausau, WI are hiring for Internship Empty Container Handler Operator jobs?

Cities near Wausau, WI with the most Internship Empty Container Handler Operator job openings:

OVERHEAD CRANE OPERATOR

Gordon Aluminum Industries Inc

Schofield, WI • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Now Hiring: Overhead Crane Operator / Material Flow

Gordon Aluminum is looking for an experienced Overhead Crane Operator to play a critical role in keeping material moving throughout our manufacturing operation. This is much more than simply operating a crane.

Our Crane Operator reports to Shipping but supports the flow of material between Shipping, Extrusion, and Fabrication. This person must constantly evaluate priorities, anticipate what each department will need next, and strategically position material so production continues moving efficiently.

What Makes This Role Different?

At any given time, you may be:

  • Moving cradles onto the Emmebi packaging line for Shipping.
  • Relocating finished or in-process material.
  • Moving empty and full cradles between departments.
  • Responding to material needs from Extrusion or Fabrication.
  • Deciding where material should be staged so it doesn't create congestion or require unnecessary handling later.
  • Reprioritizing your work as production and shipping needs change.

You need to be able to think several moves ahead. Moving something to the first available space isn't always the right answer. A strong Crane Operator considers where the material is going next, when it will be needed, what needs access to the area, and how today's placement will affect the next several material moves.

Requirements

Skills We're Looking For

Overhead crane experience is required, but we're especially interested in candidates who demonstrate:

  • Strong spatial awareness
  • Material-flow and logistics thinking
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination
  • Ability to judge distance, clearance, load position, and surrounding hazards
  • Strategic staging and organization skills
  • Ability to prioritize multiple requests
  • Strong situational awareness
  • Quick, safe decision-making
  • Ability to anticipate downstream production needs
  • Comfort communicating with several departments
  • Ability to stay organized while priorities change
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to remain focused under pressure
  • Safety awareness around people, equipment, machinery, and suspended loads

This is an extremely fast-paced position. The right person will be someone who enjoys having multiple things happening at once and can determine the safest and most efficient sequence of moves without needing someone to direct every step.

Your Experience May Transfer Well If You've Worked As A:
  • Overhead Crane Operator
  • Material Handler
  • Steel or Aluminum Mill Material Handler
  • Coil Handler
  • Heavy Manufacturing Forklift Operator
  • Shipping/Receiving Material Handler
  • Production Material Coordinator
  • Fabrication Material Handler
  • Machine/Production Feeder
  • Warehouse Material Flow Specialist
  • Yard or Material Coordinator
  • Heavy Industrial Equipment Operator

Experience in aluminum, steel, metal fabrication, foundries, mills, lumber, heavy manufacturing, or other high-volume material-handling environments may translate particularly well.

We're looking for someone who doesn't just know how to operate equipment. We need someone who can look at a busy production floor, understand what needs to happen next, and create order out of constant movement.