As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I in the United States is $58,400 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.
However, a Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $67,200 | $5,600 | $1,292 | $32 |
| Average | $58,400 | $4,867 | $1,123 | $28 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,400 | $4,450 | $1,027 | $26 |
A Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 8.98% |
| Pipeline Operations | 2.93% |
| Installation | 1.05% |
Mastering certain specialized skills can lead to a significant increase in pay. Here are examples of skills and the potential impact they can have on a Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I's salary.
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Billing | $69,496 | |
| Data Analysis | $69,496 | |
| Team Operations | $67,744 |
Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $65,555. While startup companies pay approximate $55,505.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $55,505 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $58,674 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $63,321 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $65,555 |
Understanding how a Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $67,200 | $5,600 | $1,292 | $32 |
| Average | $58,400 | $4,867 | $1,123 | $28 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,400 | $4,450 | $1,027 | $26 |
Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Distribution Center Operations Supervisor I | $64,100 | 10% |
| Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator II | $67,700 | 16% |
| Freight Distribution Clerk | $40,900 | -30% |
| Spare Parts Delivery Coordination Manager | $87,700 | 50% |
Salaries for a Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $40,745 in 2023 to around $39,721 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 | View More |
| 2023 | $40,745 |
| 2024 | $40,336 |
| 2025 | $39,721 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Transportation industry offers the highest average compensation for Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator I roles, with salaries approximately 10% above the market median.
The highest paid Storage/Distribution Terminal Operators earn a maximum salary of $69,200. The median salary for this role is $62,000, while the minimum salary starts at $52,500. This data reflects the earnings potential within the industry, highlighting significant opportunities for skilled operators.
In the US, Storage/Distribution Terminal Operators earn an annual salary ranging from $52,500 to $69,200, with a median salary of $62,000. This reflects a competitive wage for those in the field, highlighting the importance of their role in logistics and distribution.
As a Terminal Operator, the individual is responsible for overseeing the safe receipt, storage, and dispatch of goods. Tasks include operating heavy machinery such as forklifts and cranes, monitoring inventory levels, and ensuring that the space is efficiently utilized. The salary for this role typically ranges from $52,500 to $69,200, with a midpoint of $62,000.
The highest-paying machine operator roles include the Storage/Distribution Terminal Operator, with a salary range of $52,500 to $69,200 per year. Other high-paying positions are CMM Programmers ($55,000-$76,000), Screed Operators ($40,000-$65,000), and CNC Machinists, among others.
Terminal Operators in the US typically earn between $52,500 and $69,200 annually. The average salary is around $62,000 per year. These figures reflect the range of salaries based on industry data, providing a clear picture of potential earnings in this role.
Yes, machine operators are in demand, particularly in the construction industry. The job outlook is positive, with a projected growth rate of 4% from 2023 to 2033, resulting in approximately 21,500 new jobs. For Storage/Distribution Terminal Operators, salaries range from $52,500 to $69,200, with a median salary of $62,000, reflecting the demand for skilled operators in this field.
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