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Cargo Ship Cleaning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Logistec

Ship Crane Operator

Gibsonton, FL · On-site

... cargo through one of the region's active marine terminals. Our terminal handles a variety of bulk ... Inspection of equipment for defect or damage before and after operation * Assist with cleaning and ...

Logistec

Ship Crane Operator

Gibsonton, FL · On-site

... cargo through one of the region's active marine terminals. Our terminal handles a variety of bulk ... Inspection of equipment for defect or damage before and after operation * Assist with cleaning and ...

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Cargo Ship Cleaning information

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$36

How much do cargo ship cleaning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo ship cleaning 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 cargo ship cleaning?

Cargo ship cleaning refers to the process of thoroughly cleaning and maintaining the cargo holds, decks, and other areas of a cargo ship. This ensures that the ship is free from residues, contaminants, and pests that could affect future cargo loads or violate international regulations. Cleaning helps prevent cross-contamination between different types of cargo, maintains the ship’s structural integrity, and contributes to overall safety and efficiency. Specialized equipment and cleaning agents are often used, and the process must comply with strict maritime standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cargo ship cleaning?

To thrive in Cargo Ship Cleaning, you need knowledge of industrial cleaning procedures, safety regulations, and physical stamina, often supported by completion of safety training courses such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers). Familiarity with cleaning equipment, hazardous material handling, and confined space entry systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring thorough cleaning and maintaining safety standards. These skills and qualifications are vital to prevent contamination, ensure crew safety, and support efficient ship operations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in cargo ship cleaning, and how can they be managed?

Cargo ship cleaning professionals often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, handling hazardous materials, and adhering to strict environmental regulations. Managing these challenges requires thorough training in safety protocols, the use of appropriate personal protective equipment, and close coordination with the ship's crew and regulatory inspectors. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure cleaning tasks are completed efficiently and safely, minimizing downtime and maintaining compliance with international maritime standards.

What is the difference between Cargo Ship Cleaning vs Deckhand?

AspectCargo Ship CleaningDeckhand
CertificationsBasic safety and sanitation trainingBasic safety, STCW certifications often required
Work EnvironmentInterior ship areas, cargo holds, decksExterior decks, ship's exterior, cargo handling areas
Job ResponsibilitiesCleaning cargo holds, sanitation, maintaining cleanlinessDeck maintenance, mooring, cargo operations, general ship upkeep

While both roles work on ships, Cargo Ship Cleaning focuses on sanitation and cleaning of cargo areas, whereas Deckhands handle exterior maintenance and cargo operations. Both require safety certifications and are essential for ship operations, but they differ in daily tasks and work environment.

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

Cargo ship cleaning jobs often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on the job. Basic skills such as attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important. Some positions may require a valid maritime or safety certification, but entry-level roles are generally accessible to newcomers.

How much do cargo ship cleaners make?

Cargo ship cleaners typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, location, and the employer. The job often requires physical labor and working in maritime environments, with some positions offering overtime pay or benefits.
More about Cargo Ship Cleaning jobs

What cities are hiring for Cargo Ship Cleaning jobs?

Cities with the most Cargo Ship Cleaning job openings:

What states have the most Cargo Ship Cleaning jobs?

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

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

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

Cargo Ship Cleaning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Ship Cleaning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Facility Service Operator

Kingwood, TX • On-site

Gulfstar Industries LLC
Water Transportation • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Gulfstar Industries LLCexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Facility Services Operator performs a variety of duties at refinery and terminal customer locations, including connecting/ disconnect tanker trucks, rail cars, cargo ships or barges for loading or unloading liquid or bulk cargo and light facility maintenance.
  • Spot, connect, disconnect Tank Trucks or Rail Cars for loading or unloading liquid or bulk cargos.
  • Monitor the loading or unloading of Tank Trucks or Rail Cars.
  • Spot, connect, disconnect cargo hoses to or from Cargo Ships or Barges for the loading or unloading of liquid or bulk cargos.
  • Monitor and Operate Shore Side Flare or VDU (vapor destruction unit).
  • Monitor the loading or unloading of Cargo Ships or Barges.
  • Ability to Climb Stair Ways and / or Ladders for Gauging, Sampling, and Gathering Temperatures on Shore Tanks, Tank Trucks, or Rail Cars.
  • Ability to Climb Gangways for Boarding Cargo Ships or Barges.
  • Open and Close Valves throughout the Facility for Transfers to or from Shore Tanks to Tank. Trucks, Rail Cars, Cargo Ships, Barges, or Shore Tank to Shore Tank.
  • Obtain Certifications and Operate Forklifts and Shore Side Cranes.
  • Operate Locomotive and/or work the ground for In-Plant Rail Car Switching.
  • Clear and Clean Shore Side Pipelines and Hoses for Various Liquid Cargos.
  • Perform Facility Specific Duties in Accordance with Facility and Gulfstar SOP's.
  • Perform Light Plant Maintenance Up to and Including Housekeeping and Lawn Services as needed or requested.
  • Fill in or cover as needed at other Facilities and Call-Out Docks.
  • Attend and participate in all company Safety Meetings.
  • Attend and participate in Customer Safety Meetings.
  • Perform JSA's (job safety analysis).
  • Attend and Maintain Area Safety Council Training.
  • Adhere to Company and Facility Specific Safety Guidelines.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
  • TWIC - Must posses a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC).
  • Medical Certification - Must clear a Pre-Employment Examination.
  • Drug & Alcohol Clearance - Must pass and remain compliant with Pre-Employment, Annual, Random, Post Incident, and Reasonable Suspicion for DCCHA Drug & Alcohol Testing Policy.
  • Drivers License - Must posses a valid Driver's License in resident state.
  • Rail Car Experience a plus

Success Factors
  • Self Control - Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
  • Cooperation - Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
  • Attention to Detail - Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
  • Dependability - Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
  • Stress Tolerance - Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

Physical Demands
  • Multilimbed Coordination - The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.

Walking - Walk one to four miles per job.
  • Weight - Lift, grip, pull or hold up to 80 pounds to waist and carry up to 300 feet.
  • Arm-Hand Steadiness - The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.

Working Conditions
  • Environment - Work outside in environmental conditions which at times include extreme heat or extreme cold. Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

Technology
  • Employee Information Management Systems - QuickBase
  • CBT Safety Training Software - Complete all safety training topics, as they are assigned through Moxie Media.
  • Company Cell Phone - Review and respond to company email communications, as needed.

Tools
  • Hand Tools -
  • GSI issued Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • PPE - Employee is required to provide and maintain their own hand tools

Apply