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Lead Material Handler Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler Lead

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$26.71 - $28.59/hr

Manufacturing Material Handler - Lead MANUFACTURING MATERIAL HANDLER - LEAD, HIRING IMMEDIATELY, Bridgeview IL Minimum 2-3 yrs prior forklift experience Logistics Warehouse leadership experience ...

MANUFACTURING MATERIAL HANDLER - LEAD, HIRING IMMEDIATELY, Bridgeview IL * Minimum 2-3 yrs prior forklift experience * Logistics Warehouse leadership experience Compensation: * Pay Range $26.71- $28 ...

MANUFACTURING MATERIAL HANDLER - LEAD, HIRING IMMEDIATELY, Bridgeview IL * Minimum 2-3 yrs prior forklift experience * Logistics Warehouse leadership experience Compensation: * Pay Range $26.71- $28 ...

Material Handler Lead

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$26.71 - $28.59/hr

MANUFACTURING MATERIAL HANDLER - LEAD, HIRING IMMEDIATELY, Bridgeview IL * Minimum 2-3 yrs prior forklift experience * Logistics Warehouse leadership experience Compensation: * Pay Range $26.71- $28 ...

Material Handler Lead

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$26.71 - $28.59/hr

MANUFACTURING MATERIAL HANDLER - LEAD, HIRING IMMEDIATELY, Bridgeview IL * Minimum 2-3 yrs prior forklift experience * Logistics Warehouse leadership experience Compensation: * Pay Range $26.71- $28 ...

Material Handler

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Production Lead/Supervisor overview: In the Material Handler I is responsible for the moving and storage of raw materials and finished goods, including the fabrication of products on the pallets ...

Material Handler

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$21.18 - $23.57/hr

Under the direction of the Elmhurst Service Group Leader, the Material Handler is an entry level training position which ultimately will lead to being assigned to a work cell at the Service Center ...

Material Handler

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$20.35 - $22.85/hr

Production Lead/Supervisor overview: In the Material Handler I is responsible for the moving and storage of raw materials and finished goods, including the fabrication of products on the pallets ...

Material Handler

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$20.35 - $22.85/hr

Production Lead/Supervisor overview: In the Material Handler I is responsible for the moving and storage of raw materials and finished goods, including the fabrication of products on the pallets ...

Material Handler

Elwood, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

The Material Handler is responsible for manually or by hand truck moving materials, supplies, and ... Position typically reports to the Warehouse Supervisor or Lead. Essential Duties & Responsibilities ...

Material Handler

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

About the job Material Handler Shift hours : 7:00AM - 3:00PM - Overtime may be required based on ... Lead or Purchasing. * Order Fulfillment and Kitting: Pick, stage, and deliver bar stock to ...

Material Handler

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Material Handler HRforGrowth ® is engaged as the talent acquisition partner to conduct this search ... Update supervisor and team lead on issues or concerns * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work ...

Material Handler

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Material Handler HRforGrowth ® is engaged as the talent acquisition partner to conduct this search ... Update supervisor and team lead on issues or concerns * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work ...

Material Handler

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Material Handler HRforGrowth ® is engaged as the talent acquisition partner to conduct this search ... Update supervisor and team lead on issues or concerns * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work ...

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Lead Material Handler information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$31

How much do lead material handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead material handler in Chicago, IL is $22.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead material handler?

Lead Material Handlers are responsible for overseeing the movement, storage, and distribution of materials within a warehouse or manufacturing facility. They coordinate the work of other material handlers, ensure inventory accuracy, and help maintain safety and efficiency standards. In addition to handling materials themselves, they often train new staff, resolve issues, and communicate with supervisors about supply chain needs. Their leadership role is crucial for smooth operations and timely delivery of products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead material handler?

To thrive as a Lead Material Handler, you need experience in inventory management, shipping and receiving, and a solid understanding of warehouse operations, often supported by a high school diploma and forklift certification. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and inventory tracking software is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills help you coordinate teams and ensure efficient material flow. These skills are crucial for maintaining accurate inventory, meeting deadlines, and supporting overall supply chain efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by lead material handlers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lead Material Handlers often face challenges such as coordinating large teams, ensuring timely and accurate inventory movement, and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are key to managing these challenges. Leveraging technology for inventory tracking and fostering a culture of teamwork can also greatly enhance efficiency and accuracy in daily operations.

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

AspectLead Material HandlerMaterial Handler
ResponsibilitiesOversees daily material handling operations, trains team members, ensures safety compliancePerforms physical handling, loading, unloading, and organizing materials
CredentialsTypically requires experience in material handling, possibly forklift certificationBasic forklift certification often required, no leadership experience needed
Work EnvironmentWarehouse or distribution center with supervisory dutiesWarehouse, manufacturing, or distribution setting
Employer UsageUsed in companies needing team coordination and supervisionUsed for entry-level or operational roles in logistics

The Lead Material Handler typically supervises and coordinates material handling activities, requiring leadership skills and experience. In contrast, the Material Handler focuses on physical tasks like moving and organizing materials without supervisory duties. Both roles are essential in warehouse operations, but the lead position involves additional responsibilities related to team management and safety oversight.

How much do lead material handlers make in the US?

Lead material handlers in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often oversee inventory, coordinate shipments, and may require certification in forklift operation or safety procedures.

Is lead material handling a good career?

Lead material handlers oversee the movement, storage, and management of materials in warehouses or manufacturing facilities, often using equipment like forklifts. The role offers steady employment opportunities, potential for advancement, and requires physical stamina and attention to safety protocols. It can be a stable career path for those interested in logistics and operations management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lead Material Handler jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Lead Material Handler jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Material Handler jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Lead Material Handler jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Material Handler job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,596 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Lead Material Handler - All Shifts!

RJW Logistics

Romeoville, IL • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


RJW Logistics rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

RJW Logistics Group Is Hiring!

Shifts Available: 1st & 2nd

A shift: Monday - Thursday 5a-3:30pm

B shift: Wednesday - Saturday 5a-3:30pm

C shift: Mon,Tue, Fri, Sat 5a-3:30pm

D shift: Tuesday - Friday 4pm - 2:30am

E shift: Sunday - Wednesday 4pm - 2:30am

Pay: $22.00 - $24.00 / hour

Exciting NEW Pay Incentives at RJW!

Attendance Incentive - Up to $2400 bonus for good attendance. (Refer to Policy for Rules and Details)

Referral Bonus - Up to $500 per referral (Refer to Policy for Rules and Details)

Hiring Bonus - Up to $1000 (Refer to Policy for Rules and Details)

Step increase program- Pay will increase by $.50 after 90 days and again after 180 days (Material Handlers Only)

Certified/qualified Forklift/Walkie Rider/Cherry Picker drivers will receive an additional $0.50 per hour

Certified/qualified Reach Truck drivers will receive an additional $1.00 per hour

RJW Logistics Group is HIRING! OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR FUTURE. THAT'S WHY THEY COME FIRST.

RJW is dedicated to hiring and developing talent who want to make an impact and be a part of an industry-leading organization. At RJW, we are committed to our employees' success and to producing continuous innovation that drives the retail logistics industry forward. Empower Your Future with Our Employee Ownership Program

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Employee Ownership Program—an exciting opportunity designed to empower, motivate, and reward our dedicated team members. At RJW, we believe that our employees are the heartbeat of our success, and we want to share that success with you. Here's what you can look forward to:

  • Ownership Stake: Become a co-owner of the company and take pride in knowing that your hard work directly contributes to your own financial growth and the company's prosperity.
  • Financial Rewards: Enjoy the potential for increased earnings through share appreciation.
  • Sense of Belonging: Feel a deeper connection and commitment to your work as you become an integral part of the company's journey and success story.
  • Community and Collaboration: Join a community of like-minded individuals who are equally invested in the company's mission and vision, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
  • Cost: Maybe the best detail about this program is that it cost nothing to you. As long as you are employed with RJW, you will enjoy the benefits of the program. Additionally, shares will be given to you on a yearly basis based on salary.

Our Employee Ownership Program is more than just a benefit—it's a path to building a brighter, more prosperous future together. Join us in taking this exciting step forward and become a valued co-owner of RJW. Together, we can achieve greatness.

Job Purpose: Maintain warehouse area with orderly stacking and good housekeeping; ensure all shipments are correctly staged, checked, and loaded properly; perform duties to provide material handling services for warehouse shipping and receiving handling activities. Ensure that Material Handlers are operating forklift and walkies safety at all times following all safety policies and procedures. This position reports to shift supervisor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Properly receive, unload, move, and tag incoming parts and equipment.
  • Experience with WMS (Warehouse Management Systems) Knowledge of QMS (Quality Management Systems) and Lean Warehousing Experience operating material handling equipment and using an RF scanner
  • Pull and stage parts for production and complete requisitions for parts shortages.
  • Collect and properly package inventory and purchased items needing shipment.
  • Must comply with the company's safety policies while using lifting devices (forklifts and scissor lifts) and clean initiative standards.
  • Learn day to day warehouse operations.
  • Verify orders are complete and accurate.
  • Pick each customer order in the most effective manner possible to minimize shipping costs and insure product safety.
  • Other tasks as assigned by supervisor or manager.

Additional Responsibilities:

  • Possess a sense of urgency, accountability, and be able to work with limited supervision.
  • General understanding of computers and handheld RF equipment.
  • Ability to work as part of a team and lead.
  • He / she must be able to read, write, and understand English.
  • Attention to detail and quality a must.
  • Good communication, clear and concise, problem resolution, and people skills.
  • Flexibility in working overtime when needed, and supplying coverage to other shifts.
  • PC skills helpful.
  • Major experience on sit down forklifts and walkies.
  • Experience in building pallets with stock and breaking down stock to fill independent orders.
  • Experienced in cross docking freight process.
  • Ability to work in a fast paced warehouse.

Qualifications:

  • 2-4 years in a warehouse environment.
  • Good stable work and attendance record.

Education and/or Experience Required:

  • High School Diploma or general education diploma (GED).
  • Warehousing certifications a plus.

Language Skills Sets:

  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, and customers.
  • Must be able to effectively communicate, read, write, and speak English.

Mathematical Skills:

  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Reasoning Ability:

  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
  • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
  • Ability to determine "root cause" of problem and determine corrective action.

Computer Skills:

  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must have knowledge of Business Operating Systems, Internet software, Word Processing, and Spreadsheet software.

Physical Demands:

  • Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds.
  • Must be able to be on feet for full shift (8 hours).
  • Must be able to work in excess of continuous 8 hours when required.
  • Must be in sound physical health as determined by a certified licensed physician with no evidence of the use of controlled substances.

Work Environment:

  • While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, and fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment will range from quiet to moderately loud.

Employer Rights:

This job description is intended to provide general information about the Material Handler Lead position. The above does not constitute an exhaustive list of the job duties to be performed by an associate holding the position of Material Handler Lead, nor are the lists of the physical requirements and environmental conditions exhaustive. You may be asked by your supervisor or managers to perform other duties. Your performance will be evaluated in part based upon your performance of the job duties listed in this job description, as well as any job duties not specifically listed above that you may be asked from time to time to perform. As with all positions, the duties and responsibilities are subject to change at any time as needs arise and at the discretion of the


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