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Material Handling Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description Material Handling Operator Location: New Castle, DE Employment Type: Temp to Perm Industry: Manufacturing Compensation: $20.00/hour Schedule: Monday-Friday | 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM EST Ready ...

Material Handling Operator

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Experience with material handling equipment (pallet jacks, forklift, etc.). Conducts physical counts of materials. Completes packaging of finished goods. Adds the corresponding shipping documents to ...

Material Handling Operator

Grand Prairie, TX · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Material Handler Operator 1 Location: Onsite in Grand Prairie, TX Employment Type: Temporary ... High School Diploma or GED * 6+months of handling oversized/ weight pallets * 6+months cycle ...

Material Handling Operator

Harbor Beach, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Follow operating discipline principles, procedures, and practices to ensure safe and efficient ... Load/unload materials, waste and freight, final product packaging, move/mix raw materials and ...

Material Handling Operator

Plainfield, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Material Handling Operator Location: Plainfield, IN Employment: 12+ months Industry: Manufacturing Compensation: $17.00/hrs Schedule: 40 hours /week About the Opportunity: * We're looking for a ...

Material Handling Operator

Monroe, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Material Handler Operator A Material Handler Operator handles, moves and stores various non-hazardous and hazardous materials within Ventower's property. Main duties include loading and unloading ...

Material Handling Operator

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Experience with material handling equipment (pallet jacks, forklift, etc.). Conducts physical counts of materials. Completes packaging of finished goods. Adds the corresponding shipping documents to ...

Material Handling Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Company Name: Pernod Ricard USA Location: Fort Smith, AR Working for Pernod Ricard USA means creating great company every day. It means working for the co-leader in the global wines and spirits ...

Material Handling Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Company Name: Pernod Ricard USA Location: Fort Smith, AR Working for Pernod Ricard USA means creating great company every day. It means working for the co-leader in the global wines and spirits ...

Material Handling Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Company Name: Pernod Ricard USA Location: Fort Smith, AR Working for Pernod Ricard USA means creating great company every day. It means working for the co-leader in the global wines and spirits ...

Material Handling Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Company Name: Pernod Ricard USA Location: Fort Smith, AR Working for Pernod Ricard USA means creating great company every day. It means working for the co-leader in the global wines and spirits ...

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Material Handling Operator information

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How much do material handling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for material handling operator in the United States is $18.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a material handling operator do?

A Material Handling Operator is responsible for moving, loading, unloading, and storing materials within warehouses, factories, or other industrial settings. They typically operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment to transport goods safely and efficiently. Their duties also include keeping records of materials moved, inspecting equipment for safety, and sometimes assisting with inventory management. Material Handling Operators play a crucial role in ensuring smooth logistics and preventing workplace accidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a material handling operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Material Handling Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, familiarity with warehouse procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Operating forklifts, pallet jacks, and warehouse management systems, often requiring OSHA certification, is essential. Attention to detail, communication, and teamwork are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient movement of goods and smooth warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges material handling operators face, and how are they addressed on the job?

Material Handling Operators often work in fast-paced environments where efficiency and safety are paramount. Common challenges include managing heavy or awkward loads, adapting to changing inventory demands, and operating machinery in tight spaces. These challenges are typically addressed through thorough safety training, regular equipment maintenance, and clear communication with team members. Many organizations also implement standardized procedures and use technology to streamline workflow and reduce the risk of errors or accidents.

What is the difference between Material Handling Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectMaterial Handling OperatorForklift Operator
Required CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but OSHA training may be preferredForklift certification/license often required
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plantsWarehouses, loading docks, construction sites
Job DutiesMoving, stacking, and organizing materials manually or with equipmentOperating forklifts to lift and transport heavy loads
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, retailPrimarily in logistics, shipping, and warehousing

While both roles involve moving materials in similar environments, a Material Handling Operator may perform manual tasks and operate various equipment, whereas a Forklift Operator specializes in operating forklifts and often requires specific certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much do material handling operators make in the US?

Material handling 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 wages. The job often involves operating forklifts, pallet jacks, and other equipment in warehouses or distribution centers.

Is material handling a good career?

Material handling is a stable career that involves operating equipment like forklifts and managing inventory in warehouses or distribution centers. It often requires physical effort, attention to safety protocols, and may offer opportunities for advancement with experience and certifications. The job can provide steady employment and is essential to supply chain operations.
More about Material Handling Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Material Handling Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Material Handling Operator job openings:

What states have the most Material Handling Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Material Handling Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Material Handling Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Handling Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Material Handling Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,886 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Material Handling Operator

Acara Solutions

Grand Prairie, TX

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Material Handler Operator 1
Location: Onsite in Grand Prairie, TX

Employment Type: Temporary

Industry: Technology
Compensation: $21.46+.85=22.31
Schedule: M-F, 40 hours a week on 3rd shift

About the Opportunity:

We are seeking a reliable Material Handler to support daily warehouse operations by receiving, moving and staging materials efficiently and safely. This role offers a stable schedule, competitive pay and the opportunity to be part of a fast-paced team focused on quality and productivity.

Why You'll Love Working Here:

  • Supportive, team-driven culture that values collaboration, transparency, and accountability
  • Opportunity to grow your career with a global workforce solutions leader serving multiple industries
  • People-first environment that encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work
  • Strong focus on partnership, innovation, and delivering meaningful results for clients and candidates

Why This Opportunity is Exciting:

This role offers the chance to join a company that prioritizes both people and performance-where your contributions directly impact client success while giving you room to grow and develop professionally.

About Acara Solutions

Acara is a premier recruiting and workforce solutions provider-we help companies compete for talent. With a legacy of experience in various industries worldwide, we partner with clients, listen to their needs, and customize visionary talent solutions that drive desired business outcomes. We leverage decades of experience to deliver contingent staffing, direct placement, executive search, and workforce services worldwide.

Sound like a good fit?

APPLY TODAY

What You'll Do:

  • Label, tag, and mark cartons and containers with accurate identifying information
  • Move materials between storage, production, and shipping areas using equipment or manual handling
  • Sort, load, and unload shipments to ensure proper distribution
  • Assemble containers and crates using hand tools and prepared materials
  • Track and record units handled using production sheets or work tickets.

What You'll Bring:

  • 6+months working within a manufacturing environment, warehouse, material handling or logistics operation role.
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 6+months of handling oversized/ weight pallets
  • 6+months cycle counter experience
  • 6+months forklift experience preferred


What Sets You Apart:
What sets you apart is your strong attention to detail, reliable work ethic, and commitment to workplace safety. You take pride in staying organized, working efficiently, and supporting your team to meet daily production goals.

Additional Information:

  • Upon offer of employment, the individual will be subject to a background check and a drug screen

After you apply, you may receive a call or message from our AI Talent Scout about this role or other opportunities that match your skills and preferences. AI agent role is to help speed up your hiring process by answering questions, confirming basic information, and identifying whether there's a mutual fit.

The call or chat may be recorded so that our recruiting team can review it - they make all final hiring decisions, while AI agent simply helps move you forward faster. The best part? They are available 24/7, so you can connect whenever it's convenient for you.

By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Acara Solutions and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at Website Privacy Policy | Acara

Aleron companies (Acara Solutions, Aleron Shared Resources, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct) are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Race/Color/Gender/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran.

Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not meet the employment requirements for individuals with F-1 OPT STEM work authorization status.