ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cargo Ship Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crowley Maritime Corporation

2ND MATE

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

... ship or asset owner through successful and cost-effective management of marine resources. MMS ... Also performs vessel cargo and navigational watch duties, and ensures safety, stability, and ...

Watco

Checker - Houston, TX

Houston, TX

$19 - $20/hr

They find, evaluate, record all cargo, and support other needs of the operation. If they find ... working capacity • Communicates via 2-way radio with drivers, clerks, warehouse personnel ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCargo Ship Worker Jobs

Cargo Ship Worker information

See salary details

$13

$24

$33

How much do cargo ship worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo ship worker in the United States is $24.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are cargo ship workers?

Cargo ship workers are crew members responsible for operating and maintaining cargo ships that transport goods across oceans and seas. Their duties can include loading and unloading cargo, maintaining equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and assisting with navigation and ship operations. They may work in various roles such as deckhands, engineers, or stewards, depending on their training and experience. Cargo ship workers often spend weeks or months at sea and must be prepared for physically demanding work in a challenging environment.

What is the difference between Cargo Ship Worker vs Seafarer?

AspectCargo Ship WorkerSeafarer
CredentialsBasic safety training, STCW certificationSTCW certification, specialized maritime training
Work EnvironmentOn cargo ships, handling cargo and logisticsOn ships, performing various duties at sea and port
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, freight carriersMaritime industry, shipping lines
Search & ComparisonOften compared for maritime logistics rolesBroader maritime roles including navigation and engineering

While both Cargo Ship Workers and Seafarers work on ships, Cargo Ship Workers primarily focus on cargo handling and logistics tasks, often with basic safety certifications. Seafarers encompass a wider range of roles, including navigation, engineering, and deck duties, requiring more extensive maritime certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the maritime industry.

How do I get into working on a cargo ship?

To work as a cargo ship worker, you typically need to obtain relevant certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping), have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass medical and background checks. Experience in manual labor, maritime safety, or related fields can be beneficial, and employers often require physical fitness and the ability to work in a team environment. Applying through shipping companies or maritime recruitment agencies is common for entry-level positions.

What is the highest paying job on a cargo ship?

The highest paying jobs on a cargo ship are typically the chief engineer and captain, who oversee operations and navigation. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often earn the highest salaries among crew members.

How much does a worker on a cargo ship make?

Cargo ship workers, such as deckhands and able seamen, typically earn between $2,000 and $6,000 per month depending on experience, rank, and the shipping company. Salaries can vary based on the vessel's size, route, and whether the worker has certifications like STCW. Many crew members work long shifts and spend weeks at sea, with additional pay often provided for overtime and hazardous conditions.

What are some typical challenges faced by cargo ship workers during long voyages?

Cargo ship workers often encounter challenges such as adapting to extended periods away from home, variable weather conditions, and irregular work hours. The work environment can be physically demanding and requires teamwork to ensure safety and efficiency when loading, unloading, and maintaining cargo. Crew members must also comply with strict international maritime regulations and maintain consistent communication with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, which helps foster both professional growth and cultural understanding.

Can I work on a cargo ship with no experience?

Cargo ship positions often require little to no prior experience, as many entry-level roles focus on basic labor, safety procedures, and teamwork. However, some roles may require certifications such as STCW or maritime safety training, and employers typically provide on-the-job training for new workers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cargo Ship Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cargo Ship Worker, you need basic seamanship skills, physical fitness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, along with certifications such as Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). Familiarity with cargo handling equipment, safety protocols, and marine communication systems is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and the ability to work in challenging environments are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient cargo operations and contribute to the smooth functioning of shipping logistics.
More about Cargo Ship Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Cargo Ship Worker jobs? Cities with the most Cargo Ship Worker job openings:
What states have the most Cargo Ship Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Cargo Ship Worker jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cargo Ship Worker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cargo Ship Worker jobs are:
Cargo Ship Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Ship Worker job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,324 per year, or $24.2 per hour.
Operator III, Equipment - Stevedoring

Operator III, Equipment - Stevedoring

Gulf Stream Marine

Corpus Christi, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Overview
A highly skilled operational role responsible for handling oversized, heavy lift, and over-dimensional cargo within terminal operations. Includes operating high-capacity equipment and specialized trailers for complex cargo movements, such as windmill blades and long steel products. Must demonstrate expert proficiency, situational awareness, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Required to be proficient in the safe handling and transfer of general cargo and other steel products and containers in the terminal, on and off trailers, in and out of vans, railcars and containers.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Completion of advanced equipment and vehicle operation training.
  • Demonstrated experience with oversized and heavy lift cargo handling.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of load dynamics and safety standards.
  • TWIC card required (or ability to obtain).
  • Reliable transportation and punctuality.
  • Ability to work independently and coordinate with multiple teams.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor conditions, including extreme heat, rain, wind, cold, and humidity.
  • Requires standing, walking, climbing, bending, and operating heavy machinery and vehicles.
  • May involve lifting, carrying, and moving equipment or cargo.
  • Exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and moving mechanical parts.
  • Must adhere to all safety protocols and wear appropriate PPE.

Responsibilities
  • Operate PITs with capacities greater than 36,000 lbs, up to 50,000 lbs.
  • Safely operate the following equipment: Forklift (up to 50K lbs), Excavator, Bulldozer, and/or Reach Stacker.
  • Sort cargo ship-side during vessel discharge.
  • Load bundled and general cargo onto over-the-road and yard trucks.
  • Stack and nest cargo at the Place of Rest (POR), using timbers and chocking to prevent damage.
  • Handle over-length cargo (e.g., 60-foot steel pipe) in tandem with other machines.
  • Operate equipment onboard vessels and barges, ensuring safe practices for unattended machinery.
  • Maintain awareness of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, overhead hazards, and crane swing radius.
  • Comply with all safety procedures and operational standards.

Apply