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Shipping Operator Jobs in Columbus, IN (NOW HIRING)

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Shipping Operator information

See Columbus, IN salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do shipping operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipping operator in Columbus, IN is $17.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a shipping operator?

Shipping Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily logistical operations involved in transporting goods by sea, air, or land. They coordinate the loading, unloading, documentation, and scheduling of shipments to ensure smooth and efficient delivery. Shipping Operators also liaise with clients, carriers, and customs authorities to resolve any issues and maintain compliance with regulations. Their role is crucial in minimizing delays, optimizing routes, and managing costs in the shipping process.

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

To thrive as a Shipping Operator, you need knowledge of logistics procedures, inventory management, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and shipping software is often required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accurate and timely shipments. These skills are crucial for maintaining efficient operations, minimizing errors, and supporting supply chain reliability.

What are some common challenges shipping operators face and how can they be addressed?

Shipping Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight delivery schedules, coordinating with multiple departments, and handling unexpected delays due to weather or supply chain disruptions. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for navigating these issues. Many companies provide training and support systems to help new operators adapt quickly, and working closely with logistics teams can help streamline processes and minimize errors. Being proactive and detail-oriented can significantly improve efficiency and job satisfaction in this role.

What is the difference between Shipping Operator vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectShipping OperatorWarehouse Associate
CredentialsHigh school diploma, forklift certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic warehouse safety training
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading shipments, operating forklifts, managing shipping documentationOrganizing inventory, packing, stocking shelves, assisting in shipping processes
Industry UsageLogistics, transportation, shipping companiesWarehousing, distribution centers, retail logistics
Common Search/ComparisonShipping OperatorWarehouse Associate

Shipping Operators focus on managing shipments, operating forklifts, and handling shipping documentation, often working directly with carriers. Warehouse Associates handle inventory, packing, and organizing goods within warehouses. While both roles support logistics operations, Shipping Operators are more involved in the shipping process itself, whereas Warehouse Associates focus on inventory management and order fulfillment.

How to become a shipping operator?

To become a shipping operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have good organizational and communication skills. Relevant experience in logistics, warehouse operations, or using shipping software can be beneficial. Some employers may require certification in safety or forklift operation, depending on the work environment.

What does a shipping operator do in shipping?

A shipping operator is responsible for managing the movement of goods through various transportation methods, coordinating loading and unloading, and ensuring shipments are processed accurately and efficiently. They often use tracking systems and may operate equipment like forklifts, working in warehouses or shipping docks to meet delivery schedules.

What job categories do people searching Shipping Operator jobs in Columbus, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Shipping Operator jobs in Columbus, IN are:

What cities near Columbus, IN are hiring for Shipping Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbus, IN with the most Shipping Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Shipping Operator job openings in Columbus, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,251 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

$22.39/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 120 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is an ideas and solutions company.  Our corrugated packaging business seeks to be the leader in helping our customers — large and small — package, transport and display products of all kinds.  Our white paper business delivers Paper With Purpose by providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence.  We have approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 locations in the United States that strive to meet the local needs of our customers.  Our mission is to serve the needs of our customers, today and tomorrow, with products and services that exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.

People • Customers • Trust

THIS POSITION IS FOR SECOND SHIFT 3PM-11PM MONDAY-FRIDAY WITH OVERTIME

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Operate a forklift safely and efficiently.

Operates wrapping equipment when necessary.

Keeps stock and materials in orderly fashion.

Documents materials unloaded and taken off trucks.

Responsible for pulling job for production, inbound forms, inventory tags and counts on materials received or shipped.

Assists other shipping and receiving material handlers to balance the workload, organize warehouses, and perform general cleaning.

Follows rules and procedures relative to the safe and efficient operation of the forklift, also including reporting any missing, broken, bent or worn parts of fork lift to supervisor and/or maintenance.

Alert to any obvious defects of incoming material.

Adheres to all safety and work rules, company policies and procedures.

Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

High school diploma/GED.

6+ month’s prior experience operating a forklift.

Ability and willingness to work overtime on short notice, both during the week and weekends. 

Ability to work in manufacturing environment, with varying temperatures based on season, around machinery, and heavy forklift traffic.

Ability to obtain and maintain PCA certified forklift license.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Ability to work in a fast paced environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.

Ability to work independently and within a team, effectively communicating with members.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

  • Starting salary for position: $22.39 per hour.
  • Bonus: Annual – Based upon achievement of plant performance metrics. 
  • Paid Vacation: 2 weeks per calendar year. Pro-rata Vacation during the initial year of hire based upon start date within the calendar year.  
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Within the first 30 days of employment, an employee (and their dependents) is eligible to enroll in certain benefit coverages -- medical, dental, and vision – and are automatically enrolled in life, AD&D, and disability coverages.
  • Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre-tax and Roth contribution options along with employer provided matching contributions.
  • Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA’s good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Qualified Applicants must apply at careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.


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