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Material Handling Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Material Handling Specialist

Roanoke, VA · Hybrid

$120K - $125K/yr

Material Handling Specialist Location: Roanoke / Salem, VA (Hybrid) Employment Type: Full-time Compensation Structure Base Salary: $50,000-$60,000 annually Commission: 10-15% share of material ...

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Operate material handling equipment including forklifts, pallet jacks, hand trucks, and shrink wrap machines. * Maintain forklift certification and adhere to all safety protocols. * Perform ...

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Material Handling information

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$11

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How much do material handling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for material handling in Virginia is $18.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is material handling?

Material handling refers to the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption, and disposal. It involves a variety of equipment and systems, such as conveyors, forklifts, storage racks, and automated systems, to ensure materials are efficiently transported and stored. Effective material handling is crucial for improving workflow, reducing costs, and maintaining workplace safety.

Are jobs in material handling in demand?

While the positions are becoming more automated, the operators of material handling systems are becoming more vital to the efficient management of inventory and order fulfillment. The two main types of jobs are manual handling, which is becoming less common, and automated handling, which includes the use of various machines to protect workers and make supply systems flow more smoothly. Increased automation results in a lowering of demand for labor, meaning that material handling should not be considered a long-term career.

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

To thrive as a Material Handler, you need basic math skills, physical stamina, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, forklifts, pallet jacks, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure efficient inventory movement, workplace safety, and smooth operations in fast-paced environments.

What are some common challenges faced in a material handling role, and how can I prepare for them?

Material Handling professionals often face challenges such as managing heavy loads efficiently, working in fast-paced environments, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To prepare, it's important to develop physical stamina, learn proper lifting techniques, and become familiar with the operation of equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks. Additionally, practicing good communication skills is essential, as you'll frequently coordinate with warehouse staff and supervisors to ensure smooth workflow and prevent errors or accidents.

What is the difference between Material Handling vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectMaterial HandlingWarehouse Associate
Primary RoleMoving, storing, and managing materials and products within a facilityReceiving, stocking, and preparing items for shipment or storage
Required CertificationsForklift certification often requiredBasic OSHA training, sometimes forklift certification
Work EnvironmentFactories, warehouses, distribution centersWarehouses, distribution centers, retail storage areas
Common TasksOperating forklifts, loading/unloading, inventory managementPicking, packing, stocking, inventory checks

Material Handling and Warehouse Associate roles often overlap in warehouse environments, but Material Handling focuses more on moving and managing materials, often involving equipment operation, while Warehouse Associates handle stocking, packing, and order fulfillment. Both roles require safety training and are essential in supply chain operations.

Is material handling a good career?

Material handling involves managing the movement, storage, and control of materials within warehouses, factories, or distribution centers. It offers opportunities for employment with roles that often require physical stamina, operating equipment like forklifts, and sometimes certifications. The field can provide stable employment and career advancement in logistics and supply chain industries.

What are the duties of a material handling?

A material handling worker is responsible for moving, storing, and managing materials within warehouses, factories, or distribution centers. Their duties include operating equipment like forklifts, organizing inventory, and ensuring safe handling practices. They often use tools such as pallet jacks and may need certifications for equipment operation.

What are popular job titles related to Material Handling jobs in Virginia?

For Material Handling jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Material Handling jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Material Handling job openings:

Infographic showing various Material Handling job openings in Virginia 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 $37,561 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Material Handling Specialist

JCSI

Roanoke, VA • Hybrid

$120K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Material Handling Specialist

Location: Roanoke / Salem, VA (Hybrid)
Employment Type: Full-time

Compensation Structure

Base Salary: $50,000–$60,000 annually

Commission: 10–15% share of material handling profit
(Typical first-year commission: $50,000–$60,000 as volume builds)

Installation Bonuses: Per-project pay for installation support work

First-Year Total Earnings (Realistic Range): $120,000–$125,000
Growth expected in Year 2 as territory volume and account ownership increase. Commission ramps during initial training period.

Role Overview

This position establishes and grows the Material Handling division within C&C Assembly's product portfolio. The Material Handling Specialist serves as the technical expert and product authority for the division, supporting the sales team across our multi-state territory in quoting, specifying, and executing material handling jobs. This is a specialized, consultative role focused on technical expertise and account development—not transactional sales activities.

Territory: Roanoke/Salem, VA area (with flexibility for self-directed candidates within broader region from Greenville through Tennessee)

Key Responsibilities

  • Act as the in-house material handling expert supporting 7 to 8 sales representatives across multiple states
  • Quote and specify material handling solutions including:
    • Overhead cranes
    • Lift tables and lift assists
    • Intelligent lifting arms
    • Ergonomic workstations
    • Related systems and accessories
  • Assess customer requirements through direct communication with plant managers and engineers, and occasional site visits
  • Support installations on applicable projects; coordinate with installation crews (with additional per-project compensation)
  • Build and maintain deep product knowledge through ongoing vendor training and technical development
  • Develop territory accounts and increase division volume over time
  • Travel occasionally to customer locations and vendor facilities (typical frequency: one overnight trip per week to every two weeks)

Required Qualifications

  • Proven B2B sales experience, preferably in industrial equipment, capital equipment, or material handling sectors
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and comfort working in manufacturing environments
  • Ability to communicate technical specifications with plant engineers and operations managers
  • Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within territory
  • Physical capability to be hands-on during installations and site visits as needed
  • Self-directed work style with ability to manage division growth independently over time


Additional Benefits:

  • Company truck provided for business use
  • Hands-on training from President
  • Access to established vendor relationships and sales infrastructure