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Terminal Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Terminal Manager

Bloomington, CA ยท On-site

$95K/yr

This position is responsible to lead a team of Company Drivers and/or Owner Operators as well as terminal staff, in a fast-paced environment. This position reports to the Director, Region Operations.

Terminal Manager

Bloomington, CA ยท On-site

$95K/yr

This position is responsible to lead a team of Company Drivers and/or Owner Operators as well as terminal staff, in a fast-paced environment. This position reports to the Director, Region Operations.

Ensure that a safe working environment is provided for all employees and owner operator contractors ... Leads the terminal by demonstrating a "can do" attitude with a "will do" work ethic and a strong ...

Terminal Manager

Huntington Park, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

Ensure that a safe working environment is provided for all employees and owner operator contractors ... Leads the terminal by demonstrating a "can do" attitude with a "will do" work ethic and a strong ...

Terminal Operations Manager

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Supervise terminal personnel, including Operators, Shift Supervisors, and contractors. * Develop staffing schedules to support continuous 24-hour operations. Other Functions: * Implement safety ...

Supervise terminal personnel, including Operators, Shift Supervisors, and contractors. * Develop staffing schedules to support continuous 24-hour operations. Other Functions: * Implement safety ...

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading container terminal operator based in Oakland, California. This company is one of the primary terminal operators at a major West Coast port and is in the ...

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading container terminal operator based in Oakland, California. This company is one of the primary terminal operators at a major West Coast port and is in the ...

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading container terminal operator based in Oakland, California. This company is one of the primary terminal operators at a major West Coast port and is in the ...

Terminal Manager

Compton, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

World Oil Environmental Services is hiring a Terminal Manager in Compton, CA Join Our Team!! At ... Confers with administrative personnel and review activity, operating, and sales reports to ...

World Oil Environmental Services is hiring a Terminal Manager in Compton, CA Join Our Team!! At ... Confers with administrative personnel and review activity, operating, and sales reports to ...

World Oil Environmental Services is hiring a Terminal Manager in Compton, CA Join Our Team!! At ... Confers with administrative personnel and review activity, operating, and sales reports to ...

We are seeking an experienced Terminal Manager for a position in Chico, CA! Essential Duties and ... Confers with administrative personnel and review activity, operating, and sales reports to ...

Description The Terminal Clerk provides administrative and operational support to ensure the smooth daily functioning of terminal operations. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate records ...

Showing results 41-60

Terminal Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$28

How much do terminal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for terminal operator in California is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Terminal Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong mechanical aptitude, and basic knowledge of safety procedures and logistics operations. Familiarity with terminal management systems, industrial equipment, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient operations. These skills and qualifications are essential to maintain safety, prevent operational disruptions, and ensure smooth handling of goods in terminal environments.

What are some common challenges faced by terminal operators, and how can they be effectively managed?

Terminal Operators often encounter challenges related to maintaining safety standards while handling hazardous materials, coordinating logistics under tight schedules, and operating complex machinery in varying weather conditions. Effective management of these challenges involves thorough training, adherence to strict safety protocols, and clear communication with team members and supervisors. Developing strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills can also help Terminal Operators quickly address unexpected issues, ensuring safe and efficient terminal operations.

What is the difference between Terminal Operator vs Dock Worker?

AspectTerminal OperatorDock Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications in safety and equipment operationHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety training
Work EnvironmentPorts, terminals, and shipping yards with machineryDockside, ships, and cargo areas
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, transportationShipping, freight, cargo handling
Job FocusOperating machinery, managing cargo movementLoading/unloading cargo, manual labor

While both roles are essential in port operations, Terminal Operators focus on operating equipment and managing cargo flow, whereas Dock Workers handle manual loading and unloading tasks. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within port and shipping industries.

How much do terminal operators make in the US?

Terminal operators in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the facilities they manage. Many roles require operating heavy equipment and may involve shift work or overtime. Certifications in safety and equipment operation can influence earning potential.

How much do terminal operators make?

Terminal operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the terminal. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and overtime work in industrial environments.

What skills do you need to be a terminal operator?

A terminal operator needs strong mechanical and technical skills to operate and maintain equipment such as cranes, forklifts, and conveyor systems. Attention to safety protocols, good communication, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also essential. Certifications in safety and equipment operation are often required or preferred.

What are the most commonly searched types of Terminal Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Terminal Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Terminal Operator jobs in California?

For Terminal Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Terminal Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Terminal Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Terminal Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Terminal Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Terminal Operator jobs in CA?

For Terminal Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Terminal Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,824 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Terminal Operations Manager

Fenix Marine Services, LTD

San Pedro, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description

Job Summary:

The Terminal Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of terminal labor, vessel, yard, gate, and rail operations, ensuring the efficient, safe, and cost-effective handling of cargo. This role serves as the direct supervisor of the labor force, ensuring compliance with labor contracts and regulatory requirements while driving productivity and optimizing terminal performance.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Promote a culture of safety and ensure compliance with the highest level of safety standards.
  • Supervise and manage daily work assignments.
  • Assess labor needs for each shift and direct dispatchers in ordering appropriate labor.
  • Hire, schedule, and, when necessary, discipline or terminate labor in accordance with labor contract ย ย ย ย ย terms and company policy.
  • Monitor and enforce attendance, ensure proper payroll documentation.
  • Use discretion and judgment to shift resources between operational areas to improve throughput and labor efficiency.
  • Manage the coordination of yard, gate, vessel, and rail operations to maintain optimal container flow and ย equipment utilization.
  • Prepare and track departmental budgets, including labor forecasts and performance monitoring.
  • Produce and review managerial reports related to production, turn times, and labor deployment for the ย purpose of managing the operation.
  • Handle labor grievances, discipline, and arbitrations with knowledge of applicable union contracts and grievance procedures.

Requirements

Qualifications:

  • Education: Bachelor's degree. Equivalent experience may be considered.
  • Experience: Minimum 5-7 years of terminal or ย stevedoring operations management experience, preferably in a unionized ย ย ย ย ย environment.
  • Knowledge:
    • In-depth knowledge of terminal ย operations (vessel, yard, gate, and rail)
    • Familiarity with ILWU labor agreements and West Coast maritime labor practices
    • Regulatory knowledge including OSHA, PCMSC, and hazardous materials handling
  • Skills:
    • Strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills
    • Ability to manage shifting priorities and make quick, data-driven decisions
    • Proficiency with terminal operating systems (TOS) and Microsoft Office Suite
    • Ability to analyze budgets and operational performance metrics

Work Environment & Schedule:

  • This position requires availability for rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and ย ย ย ย ย holidays, as dictated by terminal operations.
  • Work is performed in both office and outdoor terminal environments and may involve exposure to weather, ย ย ย ย ย noise, and moving equipment.