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Cargo Ship Driver Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

WSL, Inc

Box Truck Driver - PDX

Portland, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

WSL warehouses and ships flooring throughout the Pacific Northwest. Responsibilities: * Drive and ... Load and unload delivery cargo/freight. * Responsible for basic vehicle maintenance; comply with ...

WSL, Inc.

Box Truck Driver - PDX

Portland, OR

$19 - $21/hr

WSL warehouses and ships flooring throughout the Pacific Northwest. Contact us now to set up an ... Load and unload delivery cargo/freight. * Responsible for basic vehicle maintenance; comply with ...

WSL, Inc

Box Truck Driver - PDX

Portland, OR · On-site

$20 - $20.01/hr

WSL warehouses and ships flooring throughout the Pacific Northwest. Contact us now to set up an ... Load and unload delivery cargo/freight. * Responsible for basic vehicle maintenance; comply with ...

WSL, Inc

Box Truck Driver - PDX

Portland, OR · On-site

$20 - $20.01/hr

WSL warehouses and ships flooring throughout the Pacific Northwest.Contact us now to set up an ... Load and unload delivery cargo/freight.Responsible for basic vehicle maintenance; comply with all ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Captain

Portland, OR · On-site

$875/wk

Valid state driver's license. * Must be able to read, speak, and understand English over telephone ... ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the ...

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Captain

Portland, OR · On-site

$780 - $875/hr

Valid state driver's license. * Must be able to read, speak, and understand English over telephone ... ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the ...

All JobsCargo Ship Driver JobsCargo Ship Driver Jobs in Oregon

Cargo Ship Driver information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$22

$38

How much do cargo ship driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo ship driver in Oregon is $22.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $25.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cargo ship driver do?

A cargo ship driver, more commonly known as a ship captain or marine pilot, is responsible for navigating and operating large vessels that transport goods across oceans and seas. Their duties include ensuring the safe passage of the ship, managing the crew, overseeing cargo operations, and complying with international maritime laws. They use advanced navigation systems, monitor weather conditions, and make critical decisions to ensure the safety and efficiency of the voyage. Ship captains also communicate with port authorities and coordinate docking and undocking procedures. This role requires extensive training, licensing, and experience at sea.

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

To thrive as a Cargo Ship Driver (also known as a Ship Captain or Marine Pilot), you need extensive maritime knowledge, navigational expertise, and typically a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) along with completion of relevant maritime training. Familiarity with radar systems, GPS navigation, electronic chart display information systems (ECDIS), and international maritime regulations is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are crucial for managing crew and ensuring safe operations. These skills and qualifications are vital for navigating complex shipping routes, ensuring cargo safety, and complying with international laws.

What are some common challenges faced by cargo ship drivers and how can they be managed?

Cargo ship drivers, often referred to as ship captains or marine pilots, frequently encounter challenges such as navigating in adverse weather conditions, adhering to strict shipping schedules, and ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations. Effective communication with crew members and port authorities is essential to address these challenges. Staying updated with the latest navigation technologies and safety protocols can help cargo ship drivers manage risks and maintain efficient operations while at sea.

What is the difference between Cargo Ship Driver vs Cargo Vessel Operator?

AspectCargo Ship DriverCargo Vessel Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), maritime certificationsMaritime licenses, captain's license
Work EnvironmentOn-road, port terminals, docksOnboard ships, ports, maritime routes
Industry UsageFreight transportation, logistics companiesShipping companies, maritime industry
Job FocusDriving cargo trucks, transporting goodsOperating and managing cargo ships

While both roles involve cargo transportation, a Cargo Ship Driver primarily operates trucks on land, whereas a Cargo Vessel Operator manages and navigates cargo ships at sea. The roles differ in credentials, environment, and industry focus, but both are essential in the logistics and shipping sectors.

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

Cargo ship drivers typically need a valid maritime license and relevant training, and prior experience is often preferred but not always required. Entry-level positions may provide on-the-job training, but candidates should have good navigation skills, physical fitness, and the ability to work long hours in a challenging environment.

How do you become a cargo ship driver?

To become a cargo ship driver, you typically need a Merchant Mariner Credential issued by the Coast Guard, which requires completing maritime training, gaining sea time experience, and passing medical and background checks. Additionally, obtaining a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and relevant certifications such as STCW may be necessary, along with strong navigation, communication, and safety skills. Licensing and training requirements can vary depending on the vessel type and jurisdiction.

How hard is it to get a job as a cargo ship driver?

Getting a job as a cargo ship driver typically requires a valid maritime license, relevant experience, and sometimes certifications such as STCW. Competition can be high, and employers often seek candidates with strong navigation skills, safety training, and the ability to work long hours in challenging environments.

How much does a cargo ship driver get paid?

Cargo ship drivers, often called deckhands or able seamen, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the shipping company. Salaries can vary based on the size of the vessel, route, and whether the position is onboard or ashore, with some experienced crew members earning higher wages and additional benefits such as overtime pay and accommodations included.

What are popular job titles related to Cargo Ship Driver jobs in Oregon?

For Cargo Ship Driver jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cargo Ship Driver jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Cargo Ship Driver jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Cargo Ship Driver jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Cargo Ship Driver job openings:

Cargo Ship Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Ship Driver job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,322 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Box Truck Driver - PDX

WSL, Inc

Portland, OR • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Box Truck Driver - PDX

WSL, Inc. of Portland, OR is looking to hire a full-time Delivery driver. WSL warehouses and ships flooring throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Responsibilities:

  • Drive and operate trucks.
  • Follow instructions; locate and read location and road maps.
  • Pre-inspect truck
  • Pick up goods and materials, verify loads for accuracy, and deliver them as instructed.
  • Load and unload delivery cargo/freight.
  • Responsible for basic vehicle maintenance; comply with all safe work practices, policies, and processes at all times.
  • Complete and verify paperwork for accuracy
  • Perform appropriate duties as assigned by management

Experience/Skills:

  • Delivery Driving Experience
  • Traffic laws/ driving knowledge
  • Pallet jack experience required; forklift experience preferred
  • Ability to lift 70 pounds repeatedly throughout day
  • Able to pass random drug tests
  • Clean driving record
  • No DUI/DWI convictions in the past seven years
  • Listening and verbal communication skills
  • Dependability

Full Time Position:

  • Yes

Work Location:

  • Home Terminal is located at:

Type of Freight:

  • Dry Vans Delivery 26'

Orientation location:

Hours per week:

  • 40-50

This Company Describes Its Culture as:

  • Detail-oriented -- quality and precision-focused
  • Innovative -- innovative and risk-taking
  • Outcome-oriented -- results-focused with strong performance culture
  • Stable -- traditional, stable, strong processes
  • People-oriented -- supportive and fairness-focused
  • Team-oriented -- cooperative and collaborative

This Job Is:

  • A job for which military experienced candidates are encouraged to apply
  • A "Fair Chance" job (you or the employer follow Fair Chance hiring practices when performing background checks)
  • A good fit for applicants with gaps in their resume, or who have been out of the workforce for the past 6 months or more
  • Open to applicants who do not have a college diploma

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 - $21.00

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