Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Enlisted • Both Overview Boatswain's Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship's crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo ...
Cargo Ship Crew information
See salary details
$12.98 - $14.14
5% of jobs
$14.14 - $15.30
6% of jobs
$15.30 - $16.46
8% of jobs
$17.42 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.46 - $17.61
6% of jobs
$17.61 - $18.77
21% of jobs
The median wage is $18.92 / hr.
$18.77 - $19.93
24% of jobs
$20.35 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$19.93 - $21.09
11% of jobs
$21.09 - $22.25
4% of jobs
$22.25 - $23.40
4% of jobs
$23.40 - $24.56
2% of jobs
$24.56 - $25.72
7% of jobs
$12
$19
$25
How much do cargo ship crew jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo ship crew in the United States is $19.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Is working on a cargo ship a good job?
Working as a cargo ship crew member involves long periods at sea, often with extended time away from home, but it offers opportunities for travel, competitive pay, and experience in maritime operations. The job requires physical fitness, safety training, and adherence to strict regulations, making it suitable for those interested in maritime work and adventure.
What is a cargo ship crew?
A cargo ship crew is responsible for operating and maintaining a cargo vessel, ensuring the safe transport of goods across oceans and waterways. Crew members have various roles, including navigation, engine maintenance, cargo handling, and safety management. Duties depend on rank, ranging from captains and officers to deckhands and engineers. Crew members follow strict schedules and must adhere to international maritime regulations. The job often requires long periods at sea with limited shore leave.
How much do cargo ship crews get paid?
Cargo ship crews typically earn between $2,000 and $10,000 per month, depending on experience, rank, and the size of the vessel. Salaries can vary based on the shipping company, route, and whether the crew member holds certifications such as STCW. Crew members often work long shifts in a challenging environment, with additional compensation for overtime and hazardous conditions.
How to become a cargo ship crew?
To become a cargo ship crew member, you typically need to obtain relevant maritime certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping), gain experience through maritime training programs or apprenticeships, and meet physical and age requirements. Basic skills in navigation, safety procedures, and teamwork are essential, and employment often requires passing medical exams and background checks.
What is the typical work environment and team structure like for a cargo ship crew member?
As a Cargo Ship Crew member, you will work in a close-knit team aboard a vessel that operates around the clock, often far from shore for weeks at a time. The crew typically includes deck officers, engineers, cooks, and specialized roles, all collaborating to maintain the ship, load and unload cargo, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Shifts are usually organized in watches, meaning you may work unusual hours, including nights and weekends. The environment can be physically demanding and involves exposure to various weather conditions, but it also fosters strong camaraderie and teamwork among crew members. Many find the experience rewarding, with opportunities to advance to higher ranks or specialized maritime positions over time.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cargo ship crew member?
To thrive as a Cargo Ship Crew member, you need a solid understanding of maritime operations, safety procedures, navigation basics, and often a STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) certification. Familiarity with shipboard machinery, communication equipment, and cargo handling systems is crucial for daily operations. Teamwork, adaptability, and strong problem-solving skills help facilitate smooth collaboration in dynamic and challenging conditions. These skills are essential to ensure the efficient, safe, and timely transport of goods across international waters.
Can I work on a cargo ship crew with no experience?
Cargo ship crews often require no prior experience for entry-level positions such as deckhands or stewards, but candidates typically need to pass physical exams and obtain basic safety certifications like STCW. Training is usually provided onboard or through maritime training programs, and some roles may require a high school diploma or equivalent.
More about Cargo Ship Crew jobs
What cities are hiring for Cargo Ship Crew jobs? Cities with the most Cargo Ship Crew job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cargo Ship Crew jobs? The most popular types of Cargo Ship Crew jobs are:
What states have the most Cargo Ship Crew jobs? States with the most job openings for Cargo Ship Crew jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cargo Ship Crew jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cargo Ship Crew jobs are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement
Re-posted 12 days ago
United States Navy rating
6.4
Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
42nd of 49 rated military and defense
Job description
Job Title: Boatswain’s Mate
Category / Component: Enlisted • Both
Overview
Boatswain’s Mates are seamanship and deck operations experts who form the backbone of a ship’s crew. They handle small boats, maintain topside equipment, and support cargo handling, flight deck operations, and maritime security, keeping the fleet ready to sail and fight.
Key Responsibilities
- Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswain’s Mate of the Watch
- Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations
- Repair and maintain deck equipment and exterior ship surfaces
- Conduct underway replenishment and cargo handling at sea
- Stand security watches in port and underway and participate in naval ceremonies
What to Expect
- Hands on, mostly outdoor work in varied weather and sea conditions
- Frequent watches day and night, at sea and in port, to support ship operations
- High tempo evolutions during replenishments, small boat operations, and flight deck activities
- Close teamwork within the deck department and opportunities to lead junior Sailors as you advance
Work Environment
- Assignments on surface ships and at shore installations in the United States and overseas - Work on decks, piers, small boats, and flight decks across a range of sea states and weather conditions - Operate in a physically demanding maritime environment with strict safety procedures and close team coordination
Pathways, Training & Advancement
- Recruit Training followed by Boatswain’s Mate A School in Great Lakes, Illinois
- On the job qualification in seamanship, small boat handling, deck operations, and watchstanding
- Advancement based on performance, time in rate, completion of required qualifications, and advancement exams, with historically strong promotion opportunity for qualified Sailors
- Enlist directly as a Boatswain’s Mate and attend BM A School after Recruit Training, subject to current classification and manning needs.
Qualifications
All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or commissioning standards, which typically include:
Eligibility to serve in the United States Navy, which may involve United States citizenship or other legal residency and work status, depending on the program and current law and policy
A high school diploma or equivalent for enlisted positions, and a bachelor’s or qualifying professional degree for officer positions
Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy. Some communities have more restrictive age ranges
Meeting medical, vision, and dental standards, including body composition and physical fitness requirements, with some jobs requiring more demanding standards
Meeting character and conduct standards, including background screening
Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery for enlisted roles or officer qualification tests for officer programs
Eligibility for a security clearance when required for your rating or designator
Additional qualifications can include specific skills, education, licensure, or experience that are unique to a job or community and will be reviewed with you by a recruiter.
Additional qualifications for this job may include:
- Physical strength and stamina to work safely in an outdoor maritime environment, often with repetitive tasks, ladders, and heavy loads.
- Ability to work well in a team, follow safety procedures, and communicate clearly in a shipboard environment.
Education
Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition Assistance, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, ACE-recommended college credit for Navy training, Navy COOL-funded certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor’s status, training, and current Navy policy.
Pay, Benefits & Service
Pay, benefits, and service commitments follow standard Navy Active and/or Reserve policies for this type of role, including basic pay, allowances when eligible, health coverage, and retirement options. Exact entitlements, special pays, and service obligations depend on program, component, years of service, and current law and Navy guidance.
Incentives
Incentives such as bonuses, special pays, and loan repayment may be available at times for specific ratings or communities, but they change frequently and cannot be guaranteed. Applicants must confirm current incentives and eligibility with an official Navy recruiter or authoritative Navy source.
Notes and Disclaimers
This description is a general overview of typical duties, training, and opportunities in this community. It does not replace official Navy instructions, policies, or contracts and does not guarantee specific assignments, training, incentives, or outcomes. Actual opportunities depend on Navy needs, individual performance, screening results, and current law and policy.
What United States Navy employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
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About US Navy
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Washington, DC, US