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Telehandler Operator Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Telehandler Operator information

See Austin, TX salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do telehandler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for telehandler operator in Austin, TX is $23.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What industries employ telehandler operators?

Telehandler operators are employed across various industries such as construction, agriculture, warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics. They operate telescopic forklifts to move heavy materials, often requiring certification and safety training, in environments that involve building, farming, or material handling activities.

How much does a telehandler operator make?

A telehandler operator typically earns between $18 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $37,000 to $62,000. Wages depend on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

What is a telehandler operator?

A Telehandler Operator is responsible for operating a telehandler, a versatile lifting machine used in construction, agriculture, and warehousing. They transport heavy materials, stack loads, and maneuver in tight spaces using various attachments like forks, buckets, or lifting jibs. Operators must follow safety regulations, perform equipment inspections, and ensure smooth workflow on-site. This role requires skill, precision, and often certification or specialized training.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a telehandler operator?

As a Telehandler Operator, your daily responsibilities include operating the telehandler to move materials around construction or industrial sites, inspecting and maintaining the equipment, and following strict safety procedures. You will work closely with supervisors, site managers, and other crew members to ensure timely delivery of materials to various locations on the job site. Tasks often involve reading load charts, securing loads properly, and maneuvering in tight or crowded spaces. Keeping clear communications with your team is crucial for safety and workflow. Expect to adapt to changing site conditions and priorities as projects progress.

How much does a telehandler operator make an hour?

A telehandler operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or construction environments requiring certification and safety knowledge.

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

To thrive as a Telehandler Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision in handling heavy machinery, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with an operator’s certification. Familiarity with telehandler equipment, load charts, safety protocols, and radio communication systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively with team members make operators stand out. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safety, efficiency, and effective collaboration on busy work sites.

What are popular job titles related to Telehandler Operator jobs in Austin, TX? For Telehandler Operator jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Telehandler Operator jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Telehandler Operator jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Telehandler Operator jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Telehandler Operator job openings:
Telehandler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Telehandler Operator job openings in Austin, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,896 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Telehandler/Crane Operator

Superior Skilled Trades

Austin, TX

$26/hr

Per diem, Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

?? NOW HIRING: Telehandler / Crane Operator – Austin, TX ??

Superior Skilled Trades is seeking an experienced Telehandler / Crane Operator for an immediate night shift opportunity in Austin, TX. This is not a warehouse forklift position. We are looking for candidates with construction site experience operating a telescopic forklift (telehandler) while performing crane-style lifting operations.

If you have experience safely lifting, placing, and maneuvering heavy materials on active commercial or industrial construction sites, we want to hear from you.

Position Details

  • Location: Austin, TX

  • Position: Telehandler / Crane Operator

  • Pay: $26.00/hour

  • Per Diem: $90/day worked for qualified travelers

  • Shift: Night Shift (5:00 PM – 5:00 AM)

  • Schedule: Monday – Saturday

  • Hours: Approximately 60 hours per week

  • Start: Immediate

  • Duration: Long-Term Project

Job Responsibilities

  • Operate a telehandler (telescopic forklift) to safely lift, transport, and position construction materials throughout the jobsite.

  • Perform crane-style picks, placing loads at elevated work areas for crews working at height.

  • Safely move steel, conduit, piping, pallets, equipment, and other construction materials across the project site.

  • Utilize forks, lifting jibs, and approved attachments while maintaining proper load balance and capacity limits.

  • Work closely with spotters, riggers, signal persons, and field supervisors to safely complete lifting operations.

  • Perform daily pre-operation inspections, equipment checks, and report any maintenance or safety concerns.

  • Maintain awareness of overhead hazards, load charts, boom extension limits, swing radius, and changing jobsite conditions.

  • Follow OSHA regulations and company safety procedures while operating heavy equipment.

Required Qualifications

  • Previous experience operating a construction Telehandler (telescopic forklift).

  • Experience performing crane-like lifting operations on commercial or industrial construction projects.

  • Strong understanding of load capacities, boom extension, material placement, and safe lifting practices.

  • Ability to communicate effectively with spotters and follow hand signals during lifting operations.

  • Experience handling oversized or heavy construction materials safely and efficiently.

  • Must have an OSHA 10 certification or be willing to obtain one prior to starting.

  • Reliable transportation and ability to work the overnight schedule.

  • Must successfully pass all required pre-employment screenings.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience operating JLG, SkyTrak, Genie, CAT, Gradall, or similar telehandlers.

  • NCCCO, forklift, or heavy equipment certifications are a plus.

  • Previous experience on data centers, manufacturing facilities, industrial plants, or large commercial construction projects.

Important

This is NOT a warehouse forklift position. We are specifically seeking operators with experience using a construction telehandler to perform elevated material placement and crane-style lifting operations in an active commercial or industrial construction environment.

If you're an experienced Telehandler / Crane Operator looking for a long-term opportunity with 60+ hours per week, overtime, and up to $90/day per diem for qualified travelers, apply today!

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