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Unloading Container Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Givens

Industrial Forklift Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Unloading import freight from ocean equipment containers. * Use of chains/binders, strapping material, tape measures, power tools (nail guns/saws). * Attention to detail. * Careful handling of ...

Jetro Restaurant Depot

Scooter Driver

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$15.85 - $16.38/hr

Take orders from supervisors for order picking activities. * Assist in loading and unloading items ... Ensure that any empty containers are removed from designated locations following a picking task.

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Unloading Container information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$16

$22

How much do unloading container jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for unloading container in Virginia is $16.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work conditions for someone unloading containers, and how does the team coordinate tasks?

Unloading container roles often involve physically demanding tasks in warehouse or dockside settings, where workers may be exposed to varying temperatures and need to lift heavy items. Team members typically work in shifts, coordinating closely with supervisors and co-workers to safely and efficiently unload goods, sort items, and prepare shipments for inventory. Communication and teamwork are essential, as tasks are often divided based on the size and content of containers. Regular safety meetings and clearly structured workflows help ensure everyone’s well-being and efficiency on the job.

How much do you get paid working on a container ship?

Unloading container ship workers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. Salaries can also include benefits such as overtime pay and per diem allowances, with some positions offering monthly or annual wages for crew members on longer voyages.

Is it hard to get a job on a container ship?

Getting a job as an unloading container worker can be competitive and often requires physical strength, safety training, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA. Experience in manual labor and familiarity with port operations can improve chances, but entry-level positions are generally accessible with proper training and adherence to safety protocols.

What is a Unloading Container job?

An Unloading Container job involves manually or using equipment to unload goods from shipping containers, trucks, or other transport vehicles. Workers ensure items are handled safely, sorted correctly, and moved efficiently to the designated storage area. The role may require physical strength, attention to detail, and the ability to work in different weather conditions. It is commonly found in warehouses, distribution centers, and logistics companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Unloading Container position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Unloading Container worker, you need physical strength, stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and RF scanners is common, and OSHA safety certifications may be required. Reliability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals stand out in this position. These skills ensure efficient, safe unloading and organization of goods, which is crucial for smooth warehouse and logistics operations.

How much do you get paid to unload trucks?

Unloading containers is typically paid hourly, with wages ranging from $12 to $20 per hour depending on experience, location, and employer. Some positions may offer overtime pay or bonuses, and physical strength and safety training are often required for this physically demanding job.

Is UPS unloader a good job?

An unloading container job involves physically handling and moving goods, often requiring strength and attention to safety protocols. It can offer steady employment with opportunities for overtime, but it may also involve physically demanding work and shift schedules. Overall, it can be a suitable entry-level position for those seeking manual labor roles in logistics or warehousing.
What are popular job titles related to Unloading Container jobs in Virginia? For Unloading Container jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Unloading Container jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Unloading Container jobs in Virginia are:
Unloading Container jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unloading Container job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,231 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Warehouse Supervisor - Food Grade

Ocean Container Transport Llc

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development

Ocean Container Solutions is seeking a warehouse Supervisor with FDA / Food Grade Warehouse experience.
Overview
Join a fast-paced, quality-driven team dedicated to safe and efficient handling of food-grade products in ocean container operations. We are seeking an experienced Warehouse Supervisor to lead our day-to-day warehouse activities, ensure compliance with food safety standards, and optimize container receiving, storage, and dispatch processes.
About Us
Industry: Maritime/Ocean Container Solutions
Focus: Food-grade handling, cold chain, and value-added packaging
Location: Suffolk, VA
Culture: Safety-first, customer-centric, data-driven, teamwork-oriented
Key Responsibilities
Supervise and coordinate daily warehouse activities for food-grade containers, including receiving, inspecting, storing, picking, packing, and loading/discharging trucks.
Ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards (e.g., HACCP, SQF, or equivalent), sanitation, allergen management, and traceability requirements.
Maintain accurate inventory through cycle counts, regular audits, and ERP/WMS updates.
Manage container inbound/outbound logistics, including scheduling, dock door assignments, and sequencing for efficient unloading/loading.
Lead a small team of warehouse associates; conduct training, performance feedback, and safety coaching.
Enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions; drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Monitor KPIs (on-time shipments, inventory accuracy, yield, waste, safety metrics) and report to site leadership.
Ensure proper handling of temperature-controlled product, packaging materials, and pallets; manage cold chain integrity.
Oversee sanitation, pest control, equipment maintenance, and housekeeping in accordance with food-grade requirements.
Collaborate with procurement, quality assurance, transport partners, and customers to resolve issues.
Maintain documentation for audits, certifications, and customer compliance.
Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or bachelors in supply chain, logistics, or related field preferred.
Experience: 3+ years in warehouse supervision, preferably in food-grade, cold chain, or container/logistics environments.
Certifications: Forklift/operator certification; optionally HACCP/HACCP-based training; OSHA/OSHA-10 or equivalent safety training.
Skills:
Strong leadership and people-management abilities
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
Knowledge of food safety regulations, traceability, allergen control
Proficiency with WMS/ERP systems and basic MS Office (Excel, Word)
Ability to read and interpret shipping documents, manifests, and SOPs
Good communication and teamwork
Physical/Working Conditions
Ability to work in a warehouse environment, including cold or controlled-temperature zones.
Capable of lifting, pushing, and moving pallets and containers as required.
May require standing for extended periods and occasional overtime or weekend work to meet deadlines.
What We Offer
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision)
Retirement plan options
Paid time off and holidays
Training and professional development opportunities
Safe and collaborative work environment with a focus on food safety