How much does a Terminal Operator make?
A Terminal Operator earns a solid income. On average, they make $50,625 a year. This job pays fairly well, with salaries ranging from $33,000 to $82,000. Many find that their earnings can grow with experience and skill.
Terminal Operators handle tasks that are vital to the movement of goods. As they gain experience, their salaries can increase. Here is a look at the range of salaries:
- $33,000 for entry-level positions
- $37,455 for those with a few years of experience
- $41,909 for mid-level professionals
- $46,364 for experienced workers
- $50,818 for those with a lot of experience
- $55,273 for senior-level positions
- $59,727 for highly skilled and experienced operators
- $64,182 for top-tier professionals
- $68,636 for those at the peak of their career
- $73,091 for leading experts
- $77,545 for master-level professionals
- $82,000 for the top earners
What are the highest paying cities for a Terminal Operator?

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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $61,769
In Portland, this role is key for managing cargo at the port. Workers often interact with local businesses and maritime companies. Major employers include SSA Marine and Zim Integrated Shipping Services.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $59,161
Chicago offers a dynamic environment for those in this field. The city’s port is busy with trade. Employees often work with companies like Chicago Terminal Transfer and Matson Navigation Company.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $53,726
Nashville’s port sees a steady flow of goods. Workers here enjoy a good work-life balance. Key employers include CSX Transportation and intermodal companies.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $52,476
Las Vegas’s port plays a vital role in the city’s logistics. This job offers a mix of warehouse tasks and cargo handling. Companies like Schnitzer Steel Industries are prominent.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $51,597
Providence’s port is bustling with activity. Employees here work in a fast-paced setting. Major players include The Port of Providence and Crowley Maritime.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $49,673
Richmond is a key port city with a lot of cargo movement. This job involves a lot of teamwork and coordination. Employers like Maersk and Norfolk Southern are key in this area.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $48,321
In Tampa, this role is vital for the city’s port operations. Employees often deal with container handling and logistics. Key companies include SSA Marine and Port of Tampa Bay.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $48,127
Pittsburgh’s port is known for its steel and industrial goods. This job offers steady work in a structured environment. Employers include the Port of Pittsburgh and Keystone Shipping.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $46,807
Savannah’s port is one of the busiest in the country. Employees here manage a variety of cargo. Major companies include Georgia Ports Authority and Crowley Maritime.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $46,595
Cincinnati’s port is a key logistics hub. This job involves handling cargo and ensuring smooth operations. Employers include the Port of Cincinnati and CSX Transportation.
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What are the best companies a Terminal Operator can work for?

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Marathon Petroleum
Average Salary: $80,362
Marathon Petroleum offers rewarding opportunities for Terminal Operators. They manage large-scale operations across various locations, including Texas, Ohio, and Illinois. The role involves handling goods and ensuring smooth operations. They seek operators with strong attention to detail and teamwork skills.
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Kinder Morgan
Average Salary: $67,774
Kinder Morgan provides excellent opportunities for Terminal Operators. They operate across major locations like Houston, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Responsibilities include overseeing cargo handling and safety. They value operators who are committed to safety and efficiency.
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Energy Transfer
Average Salary: $62,396
Energy Transfer hires Terminal Operators for key positions. They are present in cities such as Dallas, Houston, and Baton Rouge. The role involves managing shipments and logistics. Candidates must have good organizational skills and a focus on accuracy.
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Sunoco
Average Salary: $61,571
Sunoco offers competitive salaries for Terminal Operators. They operate in cities like Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The role requires overseeing cargo loading and unloading. They look for operators who can work well under pressure.
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Sprague Energy
Average Salary: $60,619
Sprague Energy provides exciting career paths for Terminal Operators. They have facilities in Boston, New York, and Atlanta. The role involves managing daily operations and ensuring efficiency. They seek dedicated professionals who can handle multiple tasks.
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TransMontaigne
Average Salary: $57,386
TransMontaigne offers rewarding Terminal Operator roles. They operate in cities such as Houston, Los Angeles, and Seattle. The job involves overseeing cargo and ensuring safety. They prefer operators with strong teamwork and communication skills.
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ST MARYS CEMENT
Average Salary: $51,311
ST MARYS CEMENT provides good opportunities for Terminal Operators. They are present in locations like St. Marys, Cleveland, and Chicago. The role involves managing shipments and logistics. They look for operators with a strong focus on safety.
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Superior Plus Propane
Average Salary: $50,967
Superior Plus Propane offers Terminal Operator positions. They operate in cities like Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The role involves overseeing cargo handling and distribution. They value operators who are detail-oriented and punctual.
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Rail Management Services
Average Salary: $48,081
Rail Management Services provides opportunities for Terminal Operators. They are based in major cities such as Chicago, Dallas, and Philadelphia. The role includes managing rail logistics and ensuring efficiency. They seek operators who are organized and reliable.
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CEMEX
Average Salary: $46,921
CEMEX offers Terminal Operator jobs in key locations. They are present in cities like Houston, Los Angeles, and New York. The role involves managing cargo and ensuring safety. They look for operators who are committed to quality and safety.
How to earn more as a Terminal Operator?
Terminal operators can find several ways to boost their earnings. Working in ports or shipping yards, they manage large equipment and ensure smooth cargo operations. A skilled terminal operator can increase income by advancing their career and gaining more responsibilities. This involves taking on leadership roles and overseeing larger projects.
Several factors contribute to higher earnings in this field. Operators who gain certifications in specific equipment or safety procedures often earn more. Continuous training and updating skills lead to higher pay grades. Gaining experience in multiple types of terminals, such as container, bulk, or liquid terminals, also increases earning potential. Networking and seeking out roles in high-demand locations can provide more opportunities for higher pay. Another way to earn more is by taking on shifts during peak times or weekends, when rates may be higher.
Consider these key areas to maximize earnings:
- Certifications: Obtain certifications in operating specialized equipment.
- Continued Training: Regularly update skills with new techniques and safety protocols.
- Experience: Work in various terminal types to broaden skill set.
- Location: Seek out roles in areas with high demand for terminal operators.
- Shifts: Be willing to work during peak times or weekends for higher pay.



