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Reach Stacker Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Reach Truck Operator - 1st and 2nd

Bedford Park, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $20.50/hr

Reach Truck Operators are primarily responsible for the movement of all received pallets through ... Stacking all usable pallets in quantities of 10-15 and wrapping in designated color. All bad ...

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Yard Coordinator / Lift Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23/hr

Prior experience operating heavy equipment (forklifts, container handlers, reach stackers, loaders, etc.) strongly preferred * Ability to lift, climb, and work safely in an outdoor industrial ...

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Reach Stacker Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$20

$24

How much do reach stacker operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for reach stacker operator in Chicago, IL is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a reach stacker operator do?

A typical day for a Reach Stacker Operator involves operating a reach stacker to move, stack, and organize shipping containers in a yard or terminal, often following specific loading and unloading schedules. Operators regularly coordinate with yard supervisors, forklift operators, and truck drivers to ensure smooth workflow and timely movement of goods. Communication and adherence to protocols are essential, as the work may require shifts, outdoor labor, and navigating tight spaces. The role is integral to the logistics team, supporting overall terminal efficiency and safety. Over time, experience and skill development can open opportunities for advancement to lead operator, supervisory, or training roles.

What is a reach stacker operator?

A Reach Stacker Operator is responsible for operating a specialized heavy lifting vehicle used to move, stack, and transport shipping containers in ports, terminals, and storage yards. They ensure efficient handling of cargo while following safety regulations and operational procedures. Operators must have strong spatial awareness, technical skills, and attention to detail to maneuver containers safely. This role often requires certification and experience with heavy equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the reach stacker operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Reach Stacker Operator, you need demonstrated experience operating heavy machinery, particularly reach stackers, along with a valid equipment operating license and basic understanding of cargo handling procedures. Familiarity with terminal operations systems, safety protocols, and adherence to OSHA regulations is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills for this position. These abilities help ensure the safe, efficient, and accurate movement of containers in busy port or logistics environments.

How much does a Reach Stacker Operator earn?

A Reach Stacker Operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. In annual terms, this can range from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Certifications in equipment operation and familiarity with warehouse or port environments can influence salary levels.
What are the most commonly searched types of Reach Stacker Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Reach Stacker Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Reach Stacker Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Reach Stacker Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Reach Stacker Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,354 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Bander Operator 2nd Shift Corrugator

Pratt Industries

Valparaiso, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Bander Operator 2nd Shift (3pm - 11pm)

SUMMARY

Responsible for all activities associated with operating the bander and corresponding equipment, including setup, operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operating the bander and corresponding equipment, including the accurate placement of bands and stretch-wrap in accordance with proper setup techniques.

Ensure proper placement of unit tags and cover sheets and correct stacking patterns.

Scan barcodes on units going through the bander.

Make neat units with the proper number of bands on each unit.

Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed.

Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, and Quality Data.

Ensure unit quantities are correct.

Pull excess scrap from units.

Operate a forklift in a safe manner when necessary.

Turn in maintenance orders to supervision for needed repairs. Be proactive in the maintenance of equipment.

Adheres to the production schedule.

Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality, and service goals.

Reports any unusual scheduling issues to Supervisor.

Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.

Additional duties may be assigned by management.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or GED.

Candidates are PREFERRED who offer the following:

Prior work experience in the corrugated industry.

6 months experience in the Press or Finishing Department.

Prior work experience as a forklift operator.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Able to read and follow instructions on factory masters.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Able to read a tape measure with speed and accuracy. Able to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, measurement, volume, and rate. Able to apply concepts of high school math.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or graphic form. Ability to deal with problems involving one or more concrete variables in standardized situations.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

The individual must have a working knowledge of the following:

Equipment design and capabilities that can be translated into efficient operation.

Product layouts and production specifications

Product quality specifications

Quality standards

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

May be required to maintain a current Lift Truck Operator License.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 6,500 highly skilled employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than a dozen states. The company operates three of the most modern, cost-effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by "harvesting the urban forest."
Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, and paid holidays.


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