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Cargo Cruise Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pacific Cruise Ship Terminals

Operations Manager

Lacey, WA · On-site

$83K - $103K/yr

Thorough understanding of operating procedures for terminal equipment, including mobile and fixed equipment, ship loaders, ship's gear cranes, locomotives, rail switching, and bulk cargo operations.

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Cargo Cruise Ship information

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$13

$21

$36

How much do cargo cruise ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo cruise ship in the United States is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cargo cruise ship?

Cargo cruise ships, also known as cargo ships with passenger accommodations, are vessels primarily designed to transport goods and freight across oceans, but they also have limited facilities for carrying passengers. These ships typically offer a unique travel experience for a small number of guests, allowing them to journey alongside cargo and crew. Passengers on cargo cruise ships enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace and get a behind-the-scenes look at the shipping industry. Unlike traditional cruise liners, amenities are basic, and entertainment options are minimal, but the experience appeals to adventurous travelers seeking something different.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cargo cruise ship officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cargo Cruise Ship Officer, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, navigation, safety protocols, and typically a degree from a maritime academy along with relevant certifications like STCW. Familiarity with ship management systems, cargo handling technology, and radio communication equipment is crucial. Strong leadership, decision-making, and teamwork skills help manage crew operations and ensure smooth voyages. These competencies are essential to ensure the safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of cargo transport at sea.

What are some common challenges faced by crew members working on a cargo cruise ship, and how can they be addressed?

Crew members on cargo cruise ships often face challenges such as long periods away from home, adapting to multicultural teams, and managing irregular work hours. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for maintaining safety and efficiency, while regular training helps staff stay updated on protocols and technology. To address these challenges, many companies offer support programs, onboard amenities, and scheduled shore leave to help crew members maintain their well-being and morale throughout their contracts.

What is the difference between Cargo Cruise Ship vs Cruise Ship Deck Officer?

AspectCargo Cruise ShipCruise Ship Deck Officer
CredentialsSTCW certification, maritime licensesSTCW certification, maritime licenses
Work EnvironmentTransporting cargo across oceans, cargo holdsPassenger decks, navigation, safety onboard
Industry UsageFreight shipping, logisticsLuxury and passenger cruise industry
Job FocusCargo handling, vessel safetyPassenger safety, navigation, hospitality

While both roles require maritime certifications and involve working onboard ships, a Cargo Cruise Ship primarily focuses on transporting cargo and freight, whereas a Cruise Ship Deck Officer is responsible for passenger safety and navigation on passenger cruises. The roles differ mainly in work environment and job focus, but share similar certification requirements.

Can I work on a cargo cruise ship with no experience?

Working on a cargo cruise ship typically requires some prior experience or relevant skills such as safety training, seamanship, or certifications like STCW. Entry-level positions may be available for those willing to undergo training, but most roles demand basic knowledge of ship operations and safety procedures. Having related skills can improve chances of employment even without direct maritime experience.
More about Cargo Cruise Ship jobs

What states have the most Cargo Cruise Ship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cargo Cruise Ship jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Cargo Cruise Ship jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Cargo Cruise Ship jobs are:

Cargo Cruise Ship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Cruise Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Director Maritime Business & Trade Lane Development

Massachusetts Port Authority

Boston, MA • On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description


The Massachusetts Port Authority is Going Above and Beyond™ for your career. We are a dynamic organization that connects people and businesses to the global community by air, land, and sea. Our employees are essential in moving planes, cargo, and cruise ships safely, efficiently, and sustainably. We are an economic engine, managing real estate assets where people live, work, and play. Together, the properties we own and operate generate $20 billion for the region's economy.
Our mission at the Port of Boston, including Conley Container Terminal and Flynn Cruiseport, is to be a driving force behind the New England regional economy, providing unparalleled connectivity and services to businesses worldwide. Through our dedicated commitment to safety and security, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and exceptional customer service, we strive to minimize our ecological impact and become leaders in environmental stewardship, benefiting our communities, customers, and stakeholders. By fostering economic prosperity, building strong community bonds, and maintaining unwavering operational standards, we aim to exceed expectations and position Boston as a premier and competitive global maritime gateway.
ABOUT YOU
As a Director, Maritime Business and Trade Lane Development, you bring a strategic, forward looking mindset that allows you to navigate complex global markets, strengthen key relationships, and identify opportunities that advance the Port's commercial position. You communicate with clarity and influence, aligning cross functional teams and senior leaders while representing the organization confidently to external stakeholders. You thrive in a collaborative, fast moving environment, using data, industry insight, and sound judgment to guide decisions, mentor your team, and drive sustainable growth that delivers meaningful impact across the region.
What you will do:
  • Drives strategic growth by evaluating markets, identifying new opportunities, and strengthening customer and carrier relationships across cargo and cruise operations.
  • Collaborates across departments to align priorities, support long-term port planning, manage timelines and budgets, and develop customer-focused, value-added solutions.
  • Leads and mentors a team to coordinate business development efforts and advance initiatives that enhance the Port's competitiveness.
  • Prepares high-level communications, represents Massport in industry settings, and monitors market trends to promote the Port of Boston and inform decision-making.

What you offer:
  • Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, supply chain, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
  • 7+ years of experience in ocean cargo, cruise transportation, or related business development.
  • Demonstrated supervisory experience with the ability to lead, mentor, and develop a team.
  • Proven success managing complex cross-functional projects, communicating effectively with senior leadership, and applying data, analytics, and planning tools to guide decisions.
  • Experience in commercial contract negotiations and strong customer-relationship management skills, effectively serving as a liaison between customers and operational teams.
  • Strong understanding of maritime commerce and familiarity with trade data tools such as DATAMYNE and PIERS.

*Click here for detailed job description
WHAT WE OFFER
Collaboration with colleagues at all levels of leadership from all different disciplines, from Aviation to Maritime and beyond. Every day is different at Massport and the breadth of our impact on the Massachusetts region through our facilities provides many opportunities for our employees to grow, learn, and explore the many areas of our business. Our business is all about connecting. We support and take pride in the employees that make those connections possible each and every day.
  • Work/life balance
  • A supportive and inclusive culture
  • Opportunities for growth
  • Providing safe, healthy, and secure work environment
  • Supporting the people and businesses of New England
  • Achieving results and having positive impact
  • Being good neighbors in the communities we serve
  • Protecting the environment

*Click here for information on our comprehensive compensation and benefits package.

Apply