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Terminal Operator Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

What We Are Looking For Liquids Terminal Operator Responsible for the safe, efficient, and quality-conscious unloading and loading of liquid products to or from storage tanks, railcars, vessels ...

Lift Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... by operating and driving the large heavy forklift trucks (empty and loaded) and yard mule. Job ... terminal. Pay Range: 25.00-28.00 per_hour, General Benefits: Benefits include medical, dental ...

... terminals, dock facilities, and/or railroad bridges. JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Operate assigned heavy equipment (friction crane or hydraulic lattice boom cranes) safely and efficiently to ...

... terminals, dock facilities, and/or railroad bridges. JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Operate assigned heavy equipment (friction crane or hydraulic lattice boom cranes) safely and efficiently to ...

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Terminal Operator information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$12

$20

$26

How much do terminal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for terminal operator in Charleston, SC is $20.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.41 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 job categories do people searching Terminal Operator jobs in Charleston, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Terminal Operator jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Terminal Operator jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Terminal Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Terminal Operator job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,503 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Liquid Terminal Operator

Kinder Morgan

North Charleston, SC • On-site

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago


Kinder Morgan rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

What We Are Looking For
Liquids Terminal Operator
Responsible for the safe, efficient, and quality-conscious unloading and loading of liquid products to or from storage tanks, railcars, vessels, barges, and trucks. Assure the work being performed consistently meets or exceeds the expectations of the supervisor, as well as published policies and procedures.
What You Will Do
Position Description
Liquids Terminal Operator
Responsible for the safe, efficient, and quality-conscious unloading and loading of liquid products to or from storage tanks, railcars, vessels, barges, and trucks. Assure the work being performed consistently meets or exceeds the expectations of the supervisor, as well as published policies and procedures.
What You Need
Position Requirements
Perform job functions as necessary to safely and efficiently transfer liquid products.
Job Functions include but not limited to:
  • Line-up movements
  • Load and unload railcars, tank trucks, ships, and barges
  • Sample and gauge product in tanks
  • Obtain and record product temperatures and levels in storage tanks
  • Perform all work in strict accordance with Environmental, Health, and Safety policies and procedures
  • Perform all work in strict accordance with operating policies, procedures, checklists and written instructions.
  • Climb tank stairs and railcar stairs, operate valves and pumps, gauge tanks
  • Upkeep of assigned equipment or tools.
  • Perform any other type of terminal function as trained and as instructed by the supervisor.
  • Open and close 2 to 12 valves by hand
  • Ascend and descend ladders and stairs to perform various operations duties
  • Perform miscellaneous clean-up activities, e.g. collect trash, empty barrels, sweep, mop floors, etc
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
Competencies, Skills and Abilities:
  • Must be willing to work overtime as needed
  • Willing to work non-traditional hours
  • Must be willing to report to shift with minimal notice
  • Must be able to effectively communicate verbally
  • Must be able to accept supervision/direction and work effectively & cooperatively with other people
  • Basic math skills required.
  • Must have the ability to work in all types of conditions, including but not limited to working in the rail yard, working on railcars
  • Basic competency using Microsoft office (Word, Excel and Outlook)
Physical Demands/ Working Conditions:
  • Must be able to climb up and down rail cars to a height of up to 20 feet
  • Must meet physical requirements, including, but not limited to: consistently lifting / carrying and pulling / pushing weights / forces up to 60 pounds / routinely gripping forces of up to 80 pounds
  • Routine walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, bending and squatting, climbing up / down ladders and stairs, standing, sitting and negotiating uneven and moving surfaces
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
  • Regularly exposed to outside in adverse weather conditions
  • Must be willing to work outdoors
  • Preferred Experience, Competencies, Skills and Abilities
  • Education in technical crafts or work experience in job duties described above-preferred
  • Hazmat, liquid tank farm operations, and/or rail yard operation experience
  • Knowledge of Liquid Transfer Operations

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
Why Join Kinder Morgan
Kinder Morgan is a large energy infrastructure company operating in North America. Access to reliable, affordable energy is a critical component for improving lives around the world. We are committed to providing energy transportation and storage services in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner for the benefit of the people, communities, and businesses we serve.
Kinder Morgan provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, family status, status as an individual authorized to work in the U.S., or any other status protected by law.
For more information about Kinder Morgan, our culture, opportunities available, and to join our Talent Community, please visit our careers site at www.kindermorgan.com.

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About Kinder Morgan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kinder Morgan is moving the fuels of today for the energy of the future. From the natural gas that heats your home to the gasoline that fuels your vehicle, our pipeline and terminal assets provide the necessary infrastructure to meet today's growing global energy demand and play a key role in the low-carbon energy transition of the future.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1997

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