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Top Pick Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC

Lift Operator

Ferris, TX · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Prior experience operating lift machinery (top pick, forklift, boom lift, etc.) is highly desirable * Relevant certification or operator's license (e.g., OSHA forklift certification) * Strong ...

SFI Independence, Ohio

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Reach Truck/Cherry Picker Operator

Solon, OH · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

A Solon Warehouse/Distribution Center is now looking for a Reach Truck/Cherry Picker Operator ... They've also been recognized as a TOP 100 workplace in Ohio. We're looking for some seasonal ...

The Ōnin Group

Cherry Picker Operator

Braselton, GA · On-site

$18/hr

Be part of a team recognized as an SIA Top Workplace 5 years running * Contract-to-Hire Opportunity ... Pick items from inventory using a handheld RF scanning device * Work closely with internal teams to ...

Kelly Services

Order Picker Operator

Fridley, MN

$21.60/hr

Ability to work from heights - will be operating equipment needing to be raised to pick and pull ... Opportunity to obtain valuable certifications and on the job training, working with a top-of-line ...

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Top Pick Operator information

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How much do top pick operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for top pick operator in the United States is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a top pick operator?

Top Pick Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating heavy machinery known as top picks, which are specialized forklifts or cranes designed to lift and move large shipping containers in ports, rail yards, or warehouses. Their main duties include safely loading, unloading, stacking, and organizing containers to facilitate cargo handling and logistics operations. Top Pick Operators must have a strong understanding of equipment controls, safety protocols, and efficient workflow processes to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations. This role often requires certification and experience in operating heavy equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a top pick operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Top Pick Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, equipment safety, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant equipment operator certifications. Familiarity with operating top pick container handlers, routine maintenance procedures, and sometimes computerized inventory or logistics systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations. These abilities are vital for preventing accidents, minimizing downtime, and ensuring smooth movement of cargo containers in busy port or warehouse environments.

What are some common challenges a top pick operator faces during a typical shift?

Top Pick Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling large and heavy equipment safely, and managing tight schedules in fast-paced environments like ports or warehouses. They must stay alert to avoid accidents and ensure efficient movement of containers or heavy loads. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is crucial for coordinating tasks and minimizing downtime. Adapting to new equipment or technologies may also be required as operations evolve.

What is the difference between Top Pick Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectTop Pick OperatorEquipment Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized certificationsHigh school diploma, equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plantsConstruction sites, factories, outdoor settings
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, miningConstruction, logistics, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for job responsibilities and certificationsRelated but more focused on specific machinery

The Top Pick Operator and Equipment Operator roles share similar work environments and industry usage, often requiring certifications related to machinery operation. However, the Top Pick Operator typically has broader responsibilities, possibly overseeing multiple equipment types or operations, while Equipment Operators focus on specific machinery. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial sectors, with the Top Pick Operator often seen as a more advanced or supervisory position.

Which top pick operator job pays the most?

Top pick operator jobs in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and construction tend to offer higher salaries, especially for roles requiring specialized skills or certifications like forklift or heavy equipment operation. Generally, operators of complex machinery or those with extensive experience and safety training earn the highest wages in this field.

What cities are hiring for Top Pick Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Top Pick Operator job openings:

What states have the most Top Pick Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Top Pick Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Top Pick Operator jobs?

For Top Pick Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Top Pick Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,379 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator-Loader/Excavator

Danbury, CT • On-site

Interstate Waste Services
Environmental Consulting Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Interstate Waste Servicesexternal

$24 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Interstate Waste Services rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator Loader and Excavator with experience

for our facility in Danbury, CT

$24-$27 an hour

Tuesday thru Saturday from 6am to 4pm or 10am to 8pm

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio!  IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers. 

Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business. 


· Operate Top Pick (also known as Container Lifter or Reacher-Stacker) and a Loader/Excavator with various other small machinery

· Maneuver large containers around transfer station and load to rail cars

· Follow all required safety policies and procedures

· Effective communication with drivers, employees, and management via hand held radios and CBs

· Routinely set up and inspect equipment prior to operation

· Have knowledge of machine capabilities and limitations

· Observe hand signals, grade stakes, or other markings when operating machines to perform work duties in compliance of safety specifications

· Receive written and oral instruction regarding material movement

· Move materials around transfer station

· Maintain an efficient flow to reduce traffic congestion

· Follow OSHA safety standards and wear required PPE


· Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and legally eligible to work in the United States.

· Must be able to lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds

· Minimum 2 years’ experience as operating a Top Pick/Container Lifter/Reacher-Stacker.

· Experience from the sanitation industry is strongly preferred.

· Able to work in an outdoor environment on a constant basis while being exposed to variable weather conditions, temperatures, chemicals, dust, fumes, smells, and loud noises.


We believe in providing the training and development you need to grow your career with IWS. Many of our Supervisors, Managers, and other leadership staff, started their careers as Helpers, Drivers, or Dispatchers. IWS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.


USD $24.00/Hr.
USD $27.00/Hr.

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