Container Handler Operator

About the position

The Container Handler Operator is responsible for moving various commodities using heavy equipment and performing a range of physical and labor-intensive tasks within the terminal. This role requires the ability to operate heavy machinery safely and efficiently in a fast-paced environment, ensuring that cargo is handled correctly and in accordance with operational guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Perform all functions in accordance with operation and safety guidelines.
• Perform routine inspection on assigned equipment; refer defects or repairs to mechanic personnel.
• Maintain constant communication with Foreman and co-workers to ensure that the correct load is moved at the right time and to the correct location.
• Stack empty and full containers in an orderly and safe manner in the locations indicated by foreman.
• Inspect and segregate Hazardous containers within the Terminal Yard.
• Utilize terminal personal computer, installed inside Top Loader, and hand-held computer to enter and scan container number.
• Operate yard truck, 9K forklift, 30K forklift, 52K forklift, Toploader/Empty Handler to properly transport containers, general cargo, including pipe and break bulk, within a specific time-frame from one location to another with the proper and safe care to avoid any damages or accidents.
• Operate 9K, 30K, and 52K forklift to load and discharge cargo from and to yard trucks.
• Perform pre-shift mechanical inspection of assigned heavy equipment and immediately report any deficiencies to the Foreman, Terminal Superintendent and Mechanic Shop Supervisor.
• Operate yard truck to pull, transport, load, and discharge break bulk or empty and loaded containers using standard equipment such as flatbed trailers, pipe trailers, and mafis.
• Couple and uncouple trailers by changing trailer jack positions, connecting or disconnecting air and electrical lines.
• Maneuver trucks into loading or unloading positions, following signals from loading crew and checking that vehicle and loading equipment are properly positioned.
• Inform Foreman immediately if detected any damages and/or spoiled cargo before loading or unloading.
• Perform general terminal duties depending on business volume and needs.
• Maintain a clean work area, free of debris or safety hazards and awareness of surroundings (i.e. vehicles, people checking equipment, etc.) at all times.
• May maintain logs of loads and submit accurate daily shift activity report as requested by supervisor(s).
• Perform other related tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• Must have one (1) year experience operating a Top Loader and/or Empty Handler.
• Must have one (1) year experience driving one or more of the following heavy equipment: mule jockey, tractor trailer, 52K Forklift.
• A valid drivers license with clean driving record.
• Must be able to efficiently maneuver the selected heavy equipment during the practice exam.
• Must be able to successfully complete on the job training to drive other heavy equipment such as 9K, 30K/52K Forklift, Toploader/Empty Handler within the first year of employment.
• Must be able to handle safely and efficiently heavy containerized, palletized, or loose cargoes in a high volume, fast paced environment.
• Must possess previous experience performing a variety of physical & labor-intensive tasks.
• Must be able to obtain HAZMAT certification within 30 days of start date.
• Must be able to obtain Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) within 90 days of start date.
• Must have the ability to read, write, and speak Basic English.
• Must be able to accurately process alpha/numeric information.
• Must have the ability to function effectively in a fast paced, team oriented work environment.
• Must have the ability to work independently with limited supervision and strong initiative.
• Must have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees.
• Must have the ability to think logically, follow procedures, instructions and make sound decisions.
• Must be able to work (flexible hours) extended hours including nights, overtime, weekends and holidays.