How much does a Material Handler make?
Material handlers play a key role in many industries. They move and organize materials to keep things running smoothly. The average salary for a material handler is around $39,232 per year. This means that most material handlers earn somewhere close to this amount.
The salary for a material handler can vary based on experience and location. Some handlers earn less, while others earn more. Here are some common salaries:
- $29,000 for the lowest 10%
- $31,276 for the next 10%
- $33,553 for the next 10%
- $35,829 for the next 10%
- $38,105 for the next 10%
- $40,382 for the next 10%
- $42,658 for the next 10%
- $44,935 for the next 10%
- $47,211 for the next 10%
- $49,487 for the next 10%
- $51,764 for the next 10%
- $54,040 for the top 10%
What are the highest paying cities for a Material Handler?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $49,389
In San Francisco, working as a Material Handler offers a dynamic environment. Companies like UPS and Amazon rely on skilled handlers to keep their supply chains running smoothly. The city's tech industry provides many opportunities for those in the field.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $45,242
San Jose is a hub for tech companies, making it a great place for Material Handlers. Firms like Apple and Cisco need efficient handlers to manage their inventory. The competitive salary and job stability make this a desirable location.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $45,065
In Washington, DC, Material Handlers play a crucial role in government and private sectors. Companies like FedEx and various government agencies depend on handlers to keep operations smooth. The city's diverse job market offers many opportunities for growth.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $45,060
Seattle's thriving tech scene means Material Handlers are in high demand. Companies like Boeing and Amazon need skilled handlers to manage their large inventories. The city offers a good balance of salary and quality of life.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $44,549
Boston's rich history and strong economy create a solid market for Material Handlers. Companies like General Electric and various healthcare firms rely on handlers to keep their supply chains efficient. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern job opportunities.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $44,377
Rochester is known for its healthcare industry, providing many opportunities for Material Handlers. Mayo Clinic and other healthcare facilities need skilled handlers to manage their supplies. The city offers a stable job market and a high quality of life.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $43,762
Milwaukee offers a strong manufacturing base, making it a great place for Material Handlers. Companies like Johnson Controls and Harley-Davidson rely on handlers to keep their operations running smoothly. The city provides a good balance of salary and cost of living.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $43,719
New Orleans' unique culture and strong port make it an interesting place for Material Handlers. Companies like UPS and various shipping firms need handlers to manage their cargo. The city offers a vibrant atmosphere and a competitive salary.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $43,684
Visalia, with its agricultural focus, offers a stable market for Material Handlers. Companies in the farming and food processing sectors need handlers to manage their supplies. The city provides a lower cost of living and a family-friendly environment.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $43,644
Modesto's growing economy and agricultural sector create a good market for Material Handlers. Companies in the farming and food processing industries need handlers to manage their inventory. The city offers a lower cost of living and a welcoming community.
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What are the best companies a Material Handler can work for?

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Univar Solutions
Average Salary: $58,322
Univar Solutions offers Material Handler jobs with a competitive salary. They operate globally, with major locations in North America, Europe, and Asia. The role involves managing materials and ensuring smooth supply chain operations.
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Dogwood Industries, LLC
Average Salary: $58,000
Dogwood Industries, LLC provides Material Handler positions with a solid salary. They are based in the United States, with key locations in Georgia and Alabama. Employees handle materials and support logistics, ensuring efficient operations.
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Raytheon
Average Salary: $57,961
Raytheon offers Material Handler jobs with a strong average salary. They have locations across the United States, including Massachusetts and Arizona. The role involves handling materials and supporting various projects in the defense and aerospace sectors.
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Uline
Average Salary: $57,364
Uline provides Material Handler positions with a competitive salary. They are headquartered in Wisconsin, with additional locations in the U.S. and Canada. Employees manage materials and support shipping and logistics operations.
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Arkema
Average Salary: $57,115
Arkema offers Material Handler jobs with a good salary. They operate globally, with significant locations in France, the United States, and China. The role involves handling materials and supporting chemical manufacturing processes.
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Wausau Supply Company
Average Salary: $55,807
Wausau Supply Company provides Material Handler positions with a solid salary. They are based in the United States, with key locations in Wisconsin and Florida. Employees handle materials and support the supply chain for construction and industrial projects.
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MilliporeSigma
Average Salary: $55,033
MilliporeSigma offers Material Handler jobs with a competitive salary. They have locations in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The role involves managing materials and supporting the life sciences and chemical manufacturing sectors.
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Intuitive (Intuitive Surgical)
Average Salary: $53,949
Intuitive offers Material Handler positions with a good salary. They are headquartered in California, with additional locations in the U.S. and internationally. Employees handle materials and support the medical device manufacturing industry.
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BD
Average Salary: $53,029
BD provides Material Handler jobs with a solid salary. They operate globally, with key locations in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The role involves managing materials and supporting the healthcare industry.
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U.S. Army
Average Salary: $52,766
The U.S. Army offers Material Handler positions with a competitive salary. They have locations across the United States and internationally. Employees handle materials and support military operations, ensuring readiness and efficiency.
How to earn more as a Material Handler?
A Material Handler can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Attention to detail and efficiency can lead to higher productivity. This can result in bonuses or promotions. Strong communication skills can help in coordinating with other departments. This can lead to smoother operations and higher job satisfaction. Gaining certifications in specialized areas can also open up higher-paying job opportunities.
Investing in continuous learning and skill development can make a significant difference. This can include taking courses in logistics or warehouse management. These can provide a deeper understanding of the industry. Networking with other professionals can lead to job referrals and insider tips on higher-paying positions. Being proactive in seeking out new challenges and responsibilities can also demonstrate leadership potential. This can lead to higher-paying roles.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Material Handler:
- Improve productivity through efficiency and attention to detail.
- Enhance communication skills for better coordination.
- Obtain certifications in specialized areas.
- Invest in continuous learning and skill development.
- Network with other professionals and seek out new challenges.