ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Material Handler Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Verstela

Material Handler

Redwood City, CA

$23/hr

This role is responsible for operating manufacturing equipment, maintaining accurate inventory ... Material Handler Job Duties: * Monitor and maintain accurate inventory records for raw materials ...

NexGen Staffing LLC

Material Handler

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Material Handler The Material Handler is responsible for operating a variety of material handling equipment for the purpose of moving, locating, relocating, stacking and counting merchandise. The ...

Kinetic Personnel Group

Material Handler

Corona, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

Material Handler â€" Lamination DepartmentPosition Title Material Handler â€" Lamination ... machine operators with loading and unloading materials as needed. * Follow all company safety ...

DHL Express USA, Inc.

Material Handler

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Responsible for operating powered equipment for the purpose of moving, locating, relocating ... Ensures products are free of damage and infestation, product code Material Handler, Manufacturing ...

DHL International GmbH

Material Handler

Fontana, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Responsible for operating powered equipment for the purpose of moving, locating, relocating ... Ensures products are free of damage and infestation, product code Material Handler, Manufacturing ...

DHL Express USA, Inc.

Material Handler

Victorville, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Responsible for operating powered equipment for the purpose of moving, locating, relocating ... Ensures products are free of damage and infestation, product code Material Handler, Manufacturing ...

DHL Express USA, Inc.

Material Handler

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Responsible for operating powered equipment for the purpose of moving, locating, relocating ... Ensures products are free of damage and infestation, product code Material Handler, Manufacturing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMaterial Handler Operator JobsMaterial Handler Operator Jobs in California

Material Handler Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do material handler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for material handler operator 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 does a material handler operator do?

A Material Handler Operator is responsible for moving, loading, and unloading materials within warehouses, factories, or production facilities. They operate equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyor belts to transport goods safely and efficiently. This role also includes tasks like inventory management, verifying shipments, and ensuring materials are properly stored. Material Handler Operators play a crucial part in maintaining smooth workflow and supporting production and shipping operations.

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

To thrive as a Material Handler Operator, you need knowledge of warehouse procedures, inventory control, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with forklifts, pallet jacks, barcode scanners, and warehouse management systems is typically required, along with any relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, strong organization, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate and efficient movement of materials, support workplace safety, and help maintain smooth operations in fast-paced warehouse environments.

What are some common challenges material handler operators face and how can they overcome them?

Material Handler Operators often encounter challenges such as managing heavy workloads during peak production times and ensuring the safe handling of materials to prevent workplace injuries. Staying organized, adhering to safety protocols, and effectively communicating with warehouse and production teams are essential in overcoming these hurdles. Utilizing equipment properly and participating in ongoing safety training can further help operators work efficiently and maintain a safe environment.

What is the difference between Material Handler Operator vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectMaterial Handler OperatorWarehouse Associate
CredentialsHigh school diploma, forklift certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentFactories, warehouses, manufacturing plantsWarehouses, distribution centers
Job DutiesMoving materials, operating forklifts, loading/unloadingReceiving, stocking, picking, packing
Industry UsageManufacturing, logistics, distributionRetail, logistics, distribution

Material Handler Operators focus on moving and handling materials, often operating machinery like forklifts, within manufacturing or distribution settings. Warehouse Associates handle inventory, stocking, and order fulfillment tasks. While both roles work in similar environments, Material Handler Operators typically require specific certifications and machinery operation skills, whereas Warehouse Associates focus more on inventory management and order processing.

How much do material handler operators make in the US?

Material handler operators in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Many roles involve operating forklifts or other material handling equipment in warehouse or manufacturing environments.

Is material handler operator a hard job?

Material handler operators typically perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting, moving, and organizing materials, often in a fast-paced warehouse or manufacturing environment. The job requires attention to safety protocols, the use of equipment like forklifts, and sometimes shift work, which can make it physically and mentally challenging.

What are the duties of a material handler operator?

A material handler operator is responsible for moving, loading, and unloading materials within warehouses or manufacturing facilities using equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks. They inspect and document inventory, ensure proper storage, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. The role often requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards.

What is a material handler operator?

A material handler operator is responsible for moving, storing, and managing materials within a warehouse or manufacturing environment. They typically operate equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks, follow safety protocols, and ensure accurate inventory handling. This role often requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and sometimes certification in equipment operation.

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

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

Material Handler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Handler Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,390 per year, or $18 per hour.

Material Handler Operator III Ontario CA

Ontario, CA • On-site

CMA CGM
See more jobs at CMA CGMexternal

$22.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Material Handler Operator III Ontario CA

CEVA Logistics provides global supply chain solutions to connect people, products, and providers all around the world. Present in 170+ countries and with more than 110,000 employees spread over 1,500 sites, we are proud to be a Top 5 global 3PL. We believe that our employees are the key to our success. We want to engage and empower our diverse, global team to co-create value with our customers through our solutions in contract logistics and air, ocean, ground, and finished vehicle transport. That is why CEVA Logistics offers a dynamic and exceptional work environment that fosters personal growth, innovation, and continuous improvement. At CEVA Logistics, we Rise in Motion. Your career is always on the move, growing as fast and as far as your ambition takes you. Join a global team of nearly 200 nationalities, shaping the future of global trade, moving essential goods, forging new paths, and pushing boundaries to serve an ever-changing world. The pace is fast, the challenges are real, but the rewards are greater: growth, purpose, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. This is more than a job. It's a journey on which you rise.

Material Handler III Hourly Pay: $22.50

YOUR ROLE

Are you known for your leadership skills and passionate about warehouse logistics and organization? Do you enjoy working in a clean and efficient warehouse environment? If so, we have an opportunity that would allow you to lead team members to execute essential manual duties and contribute to delivering results in a safe and efficient warehouse operation. Perform routine manual duties in a warehouse environment. Models and acts in accordance with our guiding principles and core values.

WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?

Move materials and items from receiving or production areas to storage or to other designated areas. Receive, store and distribute material, tools equipment, and products within assigned area. May sweep floors, clean dock area, general good hygiene of entire work area. Assemble customer orders from stock and place orders on pallets or shelves, or move orders to packing station or shipping department. Open bales, crates and other containers. May operate manual hand tools. Sort and place materials or items on racks, shelves, or in bins according to predetermined sequence such as size, type, style, color or product code. Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Ability to communicate and interact effectively with multi-functional and diverse backgrounds. Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds. Ability to climb ladders. Must have good or corrected vision. Ability to add and subtract. Ability to read, comprehend and complete basic checklists, forms or other related documents. Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner. Balances team and individual responsibilities. Consistently at work and on time. Must be able to read, write and speak English fluently.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Education and Experience: High School Diploma or GED One year related experience; one year industry related experience preferred Skills: Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds; Ability to climb ladders; Good or corrected vision; Ability to add and subtract. Characteristics: Ability to communicate and interact effectively with multi-functional and diverse backgrounds; Ability to read, comprehend and complete basic checklists, forms or other related documents; Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is based in a warehouse environment that is not climate controlled. Employees may be exposed to varying temperatures depending on seasonal weather conditions. The role requires the ability to work safely and effectively in hot and cold environments while performing essential job duties.

WHAT DO WE HAVE TO OFFER?

With a genuine culture of recognition, we want our employees to grow, develop and be part of our journey. We offer a benefits package with a focus on your wellbeing. This includes competitive Paid Time Off, 401(k), health insurance and an employee benefits platform that offers discounts on gym memberships and a diverse range of retail, travel, car and hospitality brands, including important offerings like pet insurance. We are a team in every sense, and we support each other and work collaboratively to achieve our goals together. It is our goal that you will be compensated for your hard work and commitment, so if you'd like to work for one of the top Logistics providers in the world then let's work together to help you find your new role.

ABOUT TOMORROW

We value your professional and personal growth. That's why we share plenty of career opportunities for you to thrive within CEVA. This role can be the first step on your career path with us. You can stay in the same job family, find a new family to grow in (how about sales or supply chain?) or find your own path. Join CEVA for a challenging and rewarding career. CEVA operates in a multicultural, global environment and is a richly diverse organization operating seamlessly as one company. We aim to attract, motivate and retain the best people in our industry, whatever their background. We share the same passion to deliver world-class solutions to our customers. We have the best supply chain professionals in the industry and develop this talent in an inspiring work environment. CEVA Logistics is proud to be an equal opportunity work place and an affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individual with Disabilities.

Outstanding benefits for employee and family including multiple health plans(company contribution to health savings account), prescription, dental and vision coverage. Company paid life insurance, accident insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage and employee assistance plan. Voluntary benefits including additional life insurance, AD&D coverage, buy-up short- and long-term disability, critical illness, identify theft & legal plan. 401(k) with company match. Flexible Paid Time Off programs including company paid holidays. Tuition reimbursement program.

Nearest Major Market: Riverside Nearest Secondary Market: Los Angeles

Apply