1

Container Ship Crew Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shipfitter - Hiring Now

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$28.11 - $35.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial ... Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as ...

$28.11 - $35.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial ... Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Chesapeake, VA ยท On-site

$28.11 - $35.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial ... Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as ...

Shipfitter - Hiring Now

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$28.11 - $35.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial ... Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as ...

Shipfitter - Hiring Now

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$28.11 - $35.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial ... Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as ...

Shipfitter - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$28.11 - $35.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial ... Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as ...

Shipfitter - Hiring Now

Hampton, VA ยท On-site

$28.11 - $35.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial ... Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as ...

Showing results 41-60

Container Ship Crew Salary information

See salary details

$10

$21

$32

How much do container ship crew salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for container ship crew salary in the United States is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to get a job on a container ship?

Securing a position as a container ship crew member typically requires relevant certifications such as STCW, physical fitness, and experience in maritime environments. The hiring process can be competitive, often involving interviews, background checks, and demonstrating safety and operational skills. Entry-level roles may be easier to obtain with proper training, but higher-ranking positions generally require more experience.

What is the difference between Container Ship Crew Salary vs Cargo Ship Deckhand Salary?

AspectContainer Ship Crew SalaryCargo Ship Deckhand Salary
Required CredentialsSTCW certification, maritime trainingSTCW certification, maritime training
Work EnvironmentLarge container vessels, international watersBulk cargo ships, various ports
Employer & IndustryShipping lines, logistics companiesShipping companies, freight carriers

Both roles require similar certifications and work in maritime environments, but container ship crew members typically operate on large, specialized vessels focused on container transport, while cargo ship deckhands work on bulk carriers. Salary differences depend on vessel size, route, and experience, but overall, they share comparable compensation structures within the shipping industry.

What is the average salary for a container ship crew member?

The average salary for a container ship crew member varies widely depending on the specific role, experience, and the shipping company. Entry-level positions such as deckhands may earn between $1,000 and $2,500 per month, while more specialized roles like chief engineers or captains can earn $7,000 to $12,000 or more per month. Salaries may also include additional benefits such as room, board, and travel allowances. Factors like the ship's size, route, and the crew member's nationality can also affect pay rates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a container ship crew member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Container Ship Crew Member, you need a strong understanding of maritime operations, safety procedures, and often a relevant maritime certification or license. Familiarity with navigational equipment, communication systems, and cargo handling machinery is typically required. Adaptability, teamwork, and stress management are essential soft skills for coping with long periods at sea and collaborating with diverse crews. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient ship operations and maintaining compliance with international maritime regulations.

What qualifications do you need to work on a container ship?

To work on a container ship, crew members typically need a relevant maritime certification such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping), a valid passport, and sometimes specific licenses depending on the role, such as a deck officer or engineer license. Basic safety training, good physical health, and the ability to work in a team environment are also essential.

What are some common challenges faced by container ship crew members during long voyages?

Container ship crew members often encounter challenges such as extended periods away from home, adjusting to irregular work hours, and adapting to life in confined quarters with limited privacy. Additionally, they must be prepared to work in varying weather conditions and respond quickly to operational and safety issues. Effective teamwork and communication are essential, as the crew collaborates closely to ensure smooth operations and handle emergencies at sea.
More about Container Ship Crew Salary jobs

What cities are hiring for Container Ship Crew Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Container Ship Crew Salary job openings:

What states have the most Container Ship Crew Salary jobs?

States with the most job openings for Container Ship Crew Salary jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Container Ship Crew Salary jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Container Ship Crew Salary jobs are:

Infographic showing various Container Ship Crew Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,261 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

1st Class Shipfitter - Steel America (Job ID: 1371)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Norfolk, VA โ€ข On-site

$28.11 - $35.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

1st Class Shipfitter - Steel America
Position Summary:
As a Shipfitter at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for fabricating, assembling, and installing structural components and systems aboard ships, within shipyard facilities, and in heavy industrial environments. This role requires a high level of skill in metalworking, welding, and blueprint interpretation to ensure the structural integrity and alignment of ship components.
The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Cut and fabricate metal components using various tools and machinery, including saws and shears.
  • Accurately read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications to determine the layout and assembly of structural components.
  • Assemble and install structural components such as bulkheads, frames, and decks, ensuring proper alignment and fit according to project specifications.
  • Perform welding tasks using various techniques, including tack welding with stick and flux core methods, to join metal components securely and accurately.
  • Inspect completed work to ensure it meets industry standards and project specifications, making necessary adjustments as needed.
  • Identify and resolve issues related to fitting and assembly, providing innovative solutions to ensure project success.
  • Collaborate with other tradespeople and departments to complete projects within specified timelines.
  • Effectively perform work on multiple projects concurrently, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and responsibilities successfully.
  • Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as needed.

Qualifications:
  • Must have at least 5 years of experience shipfitting, in a marine or shipyard environment; or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
  • Must be proficient in metalworking, welding, and blueprint interpretation.
  • Must have a strong understanding of ship construction and structural integrity.
  • Must be able to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.
  • Must be proficient in Flux Core Welding (FCAW) with the ability to Tack Weld as needed in both the vertical and overhead positions.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Previous technical training highly preferred.
  • Relevant certifications in shipfitting, welding, or related fields are preferred.

Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods.
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation.
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Additionally, Colonna's Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
Pay Range: $28.11 - $35.55
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO)