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Terminal Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CleanHarbors

Operator Terminal

Dolton, IL

$22/hr

Safety-Kleen in Dolton, IL is looking for a Terminal Operator to join their team. This role will be responsible for completing all assigned warehouse duties in a safe and responsible manner. Why work ...

Clean Harbors

Operator Terminal

Dolton, IL · On-site

$15.65 - $36.35/hr

Safety-Kleen in Dolton, IL is looking for a Terminal Operator to join their team. This role will be responsible for completing all assigned warehouse duties in a safe and responsible manner. Why work ...

Clean Harbors

Operator Terminal

Dolton, IL

$22/hr

Safety-Kleen in Dolton, IL is looking for a Terminal Operator to join their team. This role will be responsible for completing all assigned warehouse duties in a safe and responsible manner. Why work ...

Clean Harbors

Operator Terminal

Dolton, IL

$22/hr

Safety-Kleen in Dolton, IL is looking for a Terminal Operator to join their team. This role will be responsible for completing all assigned warehouse duties in a safe and responsible manner. Why work ...

ContainerPort Group

Terminal Manager

Elwood, IL · On-site

The Terminal Manager is responsible for being the backbone of our trucking operations and being the connection between our fleet of owner-operators and our customers. This role will build lasting ...

World Shipping

Terminal Manager

Elwood, IL · On-site

The Terminal Manager is responsible for being the backbone of our trucking operations and being the connection between our fleet of owner-operators and our customers. This role will build lasting ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$23.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Posen, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Justice, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Peotone, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of shipping containers within our intermodal yard. You'll ...

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All JobsTerminal Operator JobsTerminal Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Terminal Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$22

$29

How much do terminal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for terminal operator in Chicago, IL is $22.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Terminal Operator, and why are they important?

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.

What does a terminal operator do?

A terminal operator manages the loading, unloading, and storage of cargo or materials at a terminal facility, such as a port or distribution center. They operate equipment like cranes and forklifts, monitor safety procedures, and ensure efficient handling of goods, often working in shifts and following safety regulations. Certification in equipment operation and knowledge of safety protocols are typically required.

What job makes $1,000,000 a year?

Terminal operators typically do not earn $1,000,000 annually. High-paying jobs that can reach this level include executive roles such as CEOs, successful entrepreneurs, or specialized professionals like surgeons or investment bankers, often requiring advanced skills, experience, and significant responsibility.

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 facilities they operate. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and overtime work in industrial environments.

How do terminal operators make money?

Terminal operators earn money by charging fees for handling, storing, and transferring cargo through ports or terminals. They may also generate revenue from leasing equipment, providing logistics services, and managing terminal operations, often based on volume processed or service contracts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Terminal Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Terminal Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Terminal Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Terminal Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Terminal Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Terminal Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Terminal Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Terminal Operator job openings:
Terminal Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Terminal Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,824 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Operator Terminal

CleanHarbors

Dolton, IL

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

$2,500 Sign on Bonus!

Safety-Kleen in Dolton, IL is looking for a Terminal Operator to join their team. This role will be responsible for completing all assigned warehouse duties in a safe and responsible manner. 

Why work for Safety-Kleen?

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority, and we live it 3-6-5!
  • Competitive wages; $22 an hour based on experience
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment.
  • Group 401K with company matching component.
  • Own part of the company with our Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement.
  • Positive and safe work environments.
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career.

What does it take to work for Safety-Kleen?

  • HS Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Ability to drive trucks within facility.
  • Forklift skills preferred (Not Required).
  • Tank Farm experience preferred (Not Required).

Safety-Kleen, a Clean Harbors company, has a commitment to excellence deeply rooted in a strong sense of tradition. Our entire business model revolves around keeping North American businesses green. We generate more than $1.2 billion in annual revenue as a world-class environmental service organization and market leader in industrial hazardous waste management, parts-cleaning technology, and oil re-refining. We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery capacity in North America allowing us to re-refine more than 150 million gallons each year.

Every day, we help our customers resolve their waste management needs and reduce their carbon footprint. PROTECTION. CHOICES. PEOPLE. MAKE GREEN WORK 

We thank all those interested in joining the Safety-Kleen team; however only those that complete the online application and meet the minimum job qualifications will be considered for this role. 
 

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. 
 

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.

Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.

 
Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making. 

 
Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

 
*SK

Key Responsibilities:

  • Loading and unloading tankers.
  • Maintaining Tank farm inventories.
  • Moving trucks around yard.
  • Testing oil samples that come in the door.
  •  Help with cleaning the tank farm, warehouse, and yard.

Apply