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How much does a Terminal Operator make?

The average salary for a Terminal Operator is $49,927 per year in the US.

Terminal operators play a key role in the logistics and transportation industries. They manage the movement of goods in and out of ports and terminals. This job requires skill and attention to detail. The average yearly salary for a terminal operator is around $49,927. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific company.


The salary range for terminal operators can be quite broad. At the lower end, some operators earn about $32,500 per year. As experience grows, salaries can increase significantly. The top earners in this field can make up to $81,250 annually. Factors like location and company size also affect earnings. For example, operators in major ports may earn more than those in smaller locations. Similarly, larger companies often offer higher salaries compared to smaller ones.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Terminal Operator?

Job seekers looking for Terminal Operator roles can find some of the best pay in Portland, OR. The average salary here is $61,121, making it a top choice for those in the field. Other cities with competitive salaries include Corpus Christi, TX, and Chicago, IL, with average salaries of $60,925 and $57,779, respectively. Exploring these cities can offer both good pay and a chance to work in a dynamic environment. Stockton, CA, and Las Vegas, NV, also provide attractive salaries, with averages of $54,641 and $52,317. These cities present good opportunities for those seeking a balance of compensation and job satisfaction.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Terminal Operator jobs, highlighting Portland, OR with the highest at $61,121 and Charleston, SC with the lowest at $48,255.
  1. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $61,121
    In Portland, working in a terminal offers a mix of urban and natural beauty. With companies like SSA Marine, employees enjoy a vibrant environment. The city's strong economy and good public transport make commuting easy.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Portland, OR


  2. Corpus Christi, TX
    Average Salary: $60,925
    Corpus Christi's terminals are key to the local economy. Workers here often find jobs with major companies like NuStar Energy. The city's laid-back atmosphere and coastal location provide a unique work environment.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Corpus Christi, TX


  3. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $57,779
    Chicago's terminals are bustling hubs of activity. Employees often work with major firms like ADM. The city's rich history and diverse culture add to the workplace experience. Public transport is extensive, making travel convenient.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Chicago, IL


  4. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $54,641
    Stockton offers a more relaxed pace in its terminals. Companies like Pacific Coast Terminals provide steady employment. The city's growing economy and affordable living make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Stockton, CA


  5. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $52,317
    Las Vegas's terminals are part of a dynamic entertainment industry. Workers often find jobs with companies like NV Energy. The city's vibrant nightlife and diverse job market offer a unique work environment.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Las Vegas, NV


  6. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $51,539
    Providence's terminals are key to the city's maritime industry. Employees often work with companies like Port of Providence. The city's rich history and cultural attractions provide a unique backdrop to work.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Providence, RI


  7. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $51,362
    Nashville's terminals are part of a thriving music and entertainment scene. Workers often find jobs with companies like CSX Transportation. The city's warm climate and lively atmosphere make it a great place to work.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Nashville, TN


  8. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $50,464
    Baltimore's terminals are vital to the city's economy. Employees often work with companies like Crowley Maritime. The city's rich history and vibrant culture add to the workplace experience.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  9. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $48,505
    Tampa's terminals offer a mix of maritime and tourism industries. Workers often find jobs with companies like Port of Tampa. The city's warm climate and diverse attractions make it an appealing place to work.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Tampa, FL


  10. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $48,255
    Charleston's terminals are part of a historic maritime industry. Employees often work with companies like Port of Charleston. The city's rich history and beautiful scenery provide a unique work environment.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Charleston, SC

What are the best companies a Terminal Operator can work for?

Marathon Petroleum offers the highest average salary for Terminal Operator jobs, at $78,377. Plains All American Pipeline follows closely with an average salary of $71,569. ONEOK provides the third-highest salary, with an average of $68,173. These companies provide competitive salaries and often include benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses. Job seekers can find rewarding opportunities in these organizations.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Terminal Operator jobs, highlighting Marathon Petroleum with the highest at $78,377 and Superior Plus Propane with the lowest at $50,265.
  1. Marathon Petroleum
    Average Salary: $78,377
    Marathon Petroleum offers rewarding Terminal Operator jobs. They operate across the United States, with major terminals in Texas, Illinois, and Ohio. Employees enjoy competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities for career growth.


  2. Plains All American Pipeline
    Average Salary: $71,569
    Plains All American Pipeline provides Terminal Operator positions with a strong focus on safety and efficiency. They have terminals in key locations like Houston, Texas, and Los Angeles, California. Their comprehensive training programs help employees excel in their roles.


  3. ONEOK
    Average Salary: $68,173
    ONEOK offers Terminal Operator jobs with a focus on innovation and sustainability. They operate in major cities such as Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Denver, Colorado. Employees benefit from a supportive work environment and opportunities for advancement.


  4. Kinder Morgan
    Average Salary: $65,924
    Kinder Morgan provides Terminal Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork and customer service. They have terminals in cities like Houston, Texas, and Salt Lake City, Utah. Employees enjoy a variety of benefits and a collaborative work culture.


  5. Energy Transfer
    Average Salary: $62,321
    Energy Transfer offers Terminal Operator positions with a focus on operational excellence. They operate in key locations such as Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Employees benefit from a dynamic work environment and opportunities for professional development.


  6. TransMontaigne
    Average Salary: $59,346
    TransMontaigne provides Terminal Operator jobs with a commitment to safety and efficiency. They have terminals in major cities like Houston, Texas, and Los Angeles, California. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for career growth.


  7. Sprague Energy
    Average Salary: $58,746
    Sprague Energy offers Terminal Operator positions with a focus on innovation and customer service. They operate in key locations such as Houston, Texas, and Denver, Colorado. Employees benefit from a collaborative work culture and opportunities for advancement.


  8. Sunoco
    Average Salary: $57,692
    Sunoco provides Terminal Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and efficiency. They have terminals in major cities like Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Houston, Texas. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development.


  9. ST MARYS CEMENT
    Average Salary: $51,721
    ST MARYS CEMENT offers Terminal Operator positions with a focus on operational excellence. They operate in key locations such as St. Marys, Ohio, and Houston, Texas. Employees benefit from a dynamic work environment and opportunities for career growth.


  10. Superior Plus Propane
    Average Salary: $50,265
    Superior Plus Propane provides Terminal Operator jobs with a commitment to safety and efficiency. They have terminals in major cities like Houston, Texas, and Los Angeles, California. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development.

How to earn more as a Terminal Operator?

A Terminal Operator can increase earnings through various strategies. Gaining experience and expertise in different types of cargo and equipment can lead to higher pay. Operators who master complex tasks and can work efficiently often receive bonuses or promotions. Networking with industry professionals can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions. Continuing education and certifications can also enhance skills and lead to better-paying jobs. Staying updated on industry trends and technologies can make an operator more valuable to employers.

Another way to earn more is by seeking positions in high-demand areas or industries. Locations with a shortage of skilled operators may offer higher wages. Specializing in areas like hazardous materials or refrigerated cargo can also lead to higher pay. Employers often value operators who can handle specialized tasks. Taking on additional responsibilities, such as training new employees or managing a team, can also result in higher earnings. Being proactive and showing a willingness to go above and beyond can set an operator apart and lead to better compensation.

Here are some key factors to increase earnings as a Terminal Operator:

  1. Gain experience and expertise in different types of cargo and equipment.
  2. Network with industry professionals to find higher-paying opportunities.
  3. Pursue continuing education and certifications to enhance skills.
  4. Seek positions in high-demand areas or industries.
  5. Specialize in areas like hazardous materials or refrigerated cargo.

Currently 94 Terminal Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Terminal Operator in the US?

Learn what a Terminal Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Terminal Operator today.
Position
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Terminal Operator
94 Job Openings