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Terminal Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Charlotte

$25 - $33.45/hr

Collaborating with stakeholders to make informed decisions SUMMARY Monitors airport terminal and curbside operations, ensures safe and efficient flow of passengers through terminal facilities, and ...

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Swift Transportation

Terminal Manager

Johnstown, NY

Responsible for directly hiring and training department personnel in order to maximize operational ... terminal fuel expense through bulk-fuel usage as well as safety-related expenses. * Oversee ...

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Terminal Operations information

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$33K

$70.1K

$127K

How much do terminal operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for terminal operations in the United States is $70,099.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are terminal operations?

Terminal operations refer to the management and coordination of activities at transportation terminals, such as ports, airports, rail yards, or trucking depots. These operations include the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers, storage, maintenance of equipment, and ensuring the smooth flow of goods or people through the facility. Terminal operators are responsible for safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. They play a critical role in the supply chain by minimizing delays and optimizing throughput. Careers in terminal operations can range from management and logistics to equipment handling and customer service.

What are some common challenges faced in Terminal Operations, and how can new team members effectively handle them?

Terminal Operations professionals often deal with challenges such as coordinating logistics under tight deadlines, managing unexpected shipment delays, and ensuring strict safety compliance. New team members can effectively handle these by developing strong communication skills, staying organized, and being proactive in problem-solving. Regular collaboration with warehouse staff, transport coordinators, and security personnel is key to maintaining an efficient workflow and minimizing disruptions. Continuous learning and adaptability also help in navigating evolving operational procedures and technologies.

How do terminal operators make money?

Terminal operators earn revenue by charging fees for services such as cargo handling, storage, and equipment use at the port or terminal. They may also generate income through leasing space, providing logistics services, and managing operations efficiently using specialized tools and certifications. Their income depends on the volume of cargo processed and contractual agreements with shipping companies and clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Terminal Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Terminal Operations, you need a solid understanding of logistics, inventory management, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant experience or certifications in supply chain or transportation. Familiarity with terminal operating systems (TOS), cargo tracking software, and equipment like cranes and forklifts is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential for coordinating teams and ensuring smooth operations. These abilities are vital to maintain efficient, safe, and compliant terminal workflows that support timely cargo movement.

What do you do as a terminal operator?

A terminal operator manages the loading, unloading, and movement of cargo or containers at a port or terminal. They operate equipment such as cranes and forklifts, monitor safety procedures, and ensure efficient handling of goods, often working with logistics software and adhering to safety regulations.

What does terminal operations mean?

Terminal operations refer to the management and coordination of activities at transportation hubs such as ports, airports, or freight terminals. These operations include cargo handling, scheduling, safety procedures, and equipment management to ensure efficient movement of goods and passengers. Workers often use tools like forklifts and require safety certifications to perform their duties effectively.

What is the difference between Terminal Operations vs Dockworker?

AspectTerminal OperationsDockworker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, sometimes CDLHigh school diploma, safety certifications often required
Work EnvironmentPort terminals, shipping yards, often indoors/outdoorsDockside, port areas, outdoors
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, port authorities, logistics firmsShipping lines, port authorities, freight companies
Job ResponsibilitiesOverseeing cargo handling, coordinating logistics, managing equipmentLoading/unloading cargo, handling containers, basic equipment operation

While both roles operate within port and shipping environments, Terminal Operations involves overseeing entire cargo processes and logistics management, whereas Dockworkers focus on physically loading and unloading cargo. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the shipping and logistics industry.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In terminal operations, high-paying roles such as terminal managers, logistics directors, and operations executives can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership responsibilities, and industry certifications. These positions often require strong management skills, industry knowledge, and sometimes advanced degrees or specialized training.
More about Terminal Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Terminal Operations jobs? Cities with the most Terminal Operations job openings:
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What states have the most Terminal Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Terminal Operations jobs include:
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Terminal Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Terminal Operations job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,099 per year, or $33.7 per hour.
Header - Terminal Operations

Header - Terminal Operations

Jacintoport International

Houston, TX • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description
Position at Jacintoport International
Starting rate: $24 per hour
Long-term employment with opportunities for growth
We offer excellent benefits including:
  • 401(K) Retirement Saving Plan w/ Employer Match
  • Medical, Dental & Vision insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Medical Coverage
  • Paid Time Off
  • Parental Leave
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for supervising and coordinating scheduled cargo to be readied for Stevedoring operations to load to Vessel as break-bulk, vessel convenience consolidation or customer request consolidation as well as coordinating verification and placement for inbound cargo discharged from vessels. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
GEOGRAPHIC REGION:
Please note applications out of the geographic region for position applied will not be considered.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
  • Must have a minimum of two (2) years of experience in the maritime industry as a team leader or Header
  • Must have a minimum of two (2) years of experience operating a forklift from 8K- 52K
  • Must have strong time management and organizational skills. Must be able to prioritize
  • Must have the ability to read, write, and speak Intermediate English
  • Must have basic knowledge utilizing two-way hand held radio
  • Must have Basic experience in general computer knowledge Intermediate data entry experience
  • Must be able to accurately process alpha/numeric information

Preferred
  • Working knowledge of HAZMAT (DOT:49CFR) or Dangerous Goods (IMO:IMDG Code)
  • Current and valid HAZMAT & Dangerous Goods certification

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Primary
  • Perform all functions in accordance with operation and safety guidelines
  • Coordinates the pre-staging of cargo scheduled for vessel loading by readying as break-bulk or consolidation into/onto shipping equipment following established company guidelines.
  • Ensures that export cargo is readied and pre-staged for loading.
  • Ensures that import cargo is accounted for and received from Vessel operations.
  • Directs forklift Operators and Labor assigned to perform staging Operations
  • Maintains effective communication between staff and Walking Foreman
  • Ensures that a safe work area is maintained at all times
  • Loading and unloading cargo within the terminal
  • Accessing load list for cargo loading in the company's operating system
  • Works continually to minimize damage to cargo
  • Operate heavy equipment to transport them through the yard as needed for the terminal operations
  • Maintain a clean work area, free of debris or safety hazards and awareness of surroundings (i.e. vehicles, people, equipment, etc.) at all times

Secondary
  • Conducts walkthroughs inspections of their assigned work areas with the specific purpose of identifying discrepancies and making sure that correct cargo is shipped or received.
  • Monitors and ensures that equipment operating in work area is safe and in operable conditions
  • Ensures compliance with all company policies and procedures
  • Identifies hazards and keeps Supervisors informed of any issues or accidents that affect employees or cargo.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Subject to physical and/or DOT Screening is required along with other tests as applicable
  • Ability to think logically and analyze (problem solve; collect data and draw valid conclusions).
  • High energy level, comfortable performing multifaceted projects in conjunction with normal activities.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and use his/her fingers.
  • The employee frequently is required to talk and/or hear.
  • The employee is interchangeably required to sit, stand and walk.
  • Ability to bend regularly.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Ability to work independently, keeping in mind company guidelines.
  • Must be able to work (flexible hours) long hours including nights, overtime, weekends and holidays
  • Must be able to work in an outdoor environment
  • Must be able to occasionally lift, push and pull up to 55 pounds
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment within established systems and procedures
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Report safety hazards.
  • Immediately report incidents involving injury, illness, or property damage.
  • Wear appropriate PPE as instructed by immediate supervisor.
  • Comply with all company safety policies, procedures, and rules.
  • Refuse any unsafe task or operation.
  • Participate in safety meetings and training.
  • Be constantly aware of their personal safety and that of their coworkers.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:
Position reports to a Terminal Walking Foreman and exercise supervision over assigned labor and forklift operators during staging operations.
CONDITIONS:
  • Must be able and willing to work in an outdoor environment, exposed to all possible environmental factors such as extreme heat, cold, rain, wind and high humidity during day and night shifts.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.
  • Occasionally exposure to dust, fumes and/or gases.

DISCLAIMER:
  • We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
  • If an applicant with a disability is unable or limited in their ability to use or access our online application center as a result of their disability, they can request reasonable accommodations by sending an email to [email protected]
  • The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
  • The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

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