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Telehandler Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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Smiley Crane Service is hiring an experienced telehandler operator for project-based and ongoing work in the North Phoenix area. This is a skilled-operator position -- candidates must have hands-on ...

Forklift Operator - Structural Steel

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Operate sit-down and telehandler forklifts to move, stage, and load structural steel materials throughout the facility and yard. * Safely handle long, heavy, and off-balance loads including ...

Parts Runner Non-CDL

Coolidge, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Operate equipment as needed (Forklift, telehandler, skid steer, excavator) to load/unload equipment and parts. * Perform other duties as assigned * Overnight travel will be required REQUIREMENTS

Parts Runner Non-CDL

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Operate equipment as needed (Forklift, telehandler, skid steer, excavator) to load/unload equipment and parts. * Perform other duties as assigned * Overnight travel will be required REQUIREMENTS

Parts Runner Non-CDL

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Operate equipment as needed (Forklift, telehandler, skid steer, excavator) to load/unload equipment and parts. * Perform other duties as assigned * Overnight travel will be required REQUIREMENTS

Parts Runner Non-CDL

Coolidge, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Operate equipment as needed (Forklift, telehandler, skid steer, excavator) to load/unload equipment and parts. * Perform other duties as assigned * Overnight travel will be required REQUIREMENTS

Parts Runner Non-CDL

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Operate equipment as needed (Forklift, telehandler, skid steer, excavator) to load/unload equipment and parts.Perform other duties as assignedOvernight travel will be requiredREQUIREMENTSHigh School ...

Operator II

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid-steer, boom lifts/aerial lifts, roller, backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety ...

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid-steer, boom lifts/aerial lifts, roller, backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety ...

Operator II

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid-steer, boom lifts/aerial lifts, roller, backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety ...

Parts Runner Non-CDL

Coolidge, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Operate equipment as needed (Forklift, telehandler, skid steer, excavator) to load/unload equipment and parts.Perform other duties as assignedOvernight travel will be requiredREQUIREMENTSHigh School ...

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid-steer, boom lifts/aerial lifts, roller, backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety ...

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Minimum 1 year of telehandler or similar material handling equipment experience in a construction setting. * Ability to work at heights and properly utilize fall‐protection equipment, including ...

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Telehandler information

What is a telehandler?

A Telehandler job involves operating a telescopic handler, a type of hydraulic lifting machine used in construction, agriculture, and warehousing. Telehandlers are used to lift, move, and place materials at height or in hard-to-reach areas. Operators must have skills in maneuvering heavy equipment safely and efficiently. Duties may include transporting loads, maintaining the equipment, and following safety regulations. Certification or training may be required depending on the job and location.

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

To excel as a Telehandler, you should have experience operating heavy machinery, a solid understanding of safety procedures, and typically possess a valid telehandler operator certification or relevant heavy equipment license. Familiarity with telehandler controls, load charts, and basic maintenance tools is highly valued, as well as knowledge of site-specific safety systems. Reliability, attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork make individuals stand out in this position. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient material handling and smooth collaboration on construction or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges faced by telehandlers on construction sites?

Telehandlers often work in busy, dynamic environments where they must navigate tight spaces, uneven terrain, and changing site conditions, which can be challenging. Operators need to remain vigilant about safety, adapting to weather, adjusting for load weight, and coordinating closely with other team members to avoid accidents or delays. Effective communication with site supervisors and other trades is essential to ensure materials are delivered to the right locations without disrupting workflow. With experience, telehandlers become adept at problem-solving and anticipating site needs, helping to keep projects running smoothly and efficiently.

How much do telehandler operators make?

Telehandler operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $55,000. Wages depend on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Many operators also receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

How much does a telehandler make?

The average salary for a telehandler operator ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training and safety certifications tend to earn higher wages, especially in construction and industrial settings.

What industries employ telehandlers?

Telehandlers are used across various industries including construction, agriculture, warehousing, and manufacturing. They are essential for lifting and moving heavy materials in environments that require height and reach capabilities, often operated by trained personnel with proper certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Telehandler jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

For Telehandler jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Telehandler job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Telehandler Operator - 12,000 lb Capacity (North Phoenix)

Smiley Lifting Solutions

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$17 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

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Job description

Smiley Crane Service is hiring an experienced telehandler operator for project-based and ongoing work in the North Phoenix area. This is a skilled-operator position — candidates must have hands-on, extensive experience specifically with 12,000 lb capacity telehandlers (such as JLG, Gradall, Manitou, or equivalent). This is not an entry-level role.
-What You Will Be Doing-
Operating a 12K telehandler to lift, place, and move materials on active job sites. You will be expected to read and work from load charts, position loads in tight or elevated spaces, and work safely alongside ground crews, riggers, and other trades. Site conditions vary — you need to be adaptable and professional.
-What We Require-
Extensive, verifiable experience operating 12,000 lb capacity telehandlers — you must be able to demonstrate this and provide references from previous employers or job sites
Solid understanding of load charts, rated capacities, and safe working load limits at various boom angles and extensions
Familiarity with pre-operation inspection procedures and daily maintenance checks
Ability to work in a safety-first environment with zero tolerance for shortcuts
Valid driver's license; ability to travel to job sites in the North Phoenix area
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check
-Additional Skills-
Experience on industrial, commercial, or construction sites
Familiarity with crane or rigging operations
-About Us-
Smiley Crane Service has been providing crane, rigging, and lifting solutions in Arizona for over two decades. We operate to the highest safety standards in the industry. Our team is small, skilled, and takes pride in doing the job right.
-Compensation-
Competitive, based on experience. Discuss in interview.
-To Apply-
Go to https://www.smileycrane.com/employment to fill out our application or reply to this ad with your resume and a brief description of your telehandler experience- specifically the make and model of equipment you have run and the types of projects you have worked on. Candidates who do not address their 12K telehandler experience directly will not be considered.

Company Description

Smiley Crane Service has been providing crane, rigging, and lifting solutions in Arizona for over two decades. We operate to the highest safety standards in the industry. Our team is small, skilled, and takes pride in doing the job right.