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Container Ship Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SEED LINE OPERATOR

Blairsville, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

We understand our EPS facility gives local fish farmers the containers they need to ship their ... Communicate promptly with the Seed Line Crew Leader, Production Supervisor, and Production Manager ...

Supervise crew consisting of Dock Supervisor and 2-8 Dock Leads. * Ensure all OSHA/AKOSH/EPA ... Move products and other materials to and from warehouse, delivery vehicles, vessels, and containers ...

3626 - Warehouse Helper 1

Lake Cormorant, MS · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

... ships, or containers, by hand or using trucks, tractors, or other equipment . Sort cargo before or ... your crew will be compromised Watch for hazards and report any concerns to your supervisor or ...

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Container Ship Crew information

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$10

$21

$32

How much do container ship crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for container ship crew 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.

What is a Container Ship Crew job?

A Container Ship Crew job involves working on a cargo vessel that transports shipping containers across oceans and waterways. Crew members have various roles, including deck operations, engine maintenance, navigation, and safety procedures. Responsibilities depend on the rank, from officers managing ship operations to ratings performing hands-on tasks. The job requires long periods at sea, physical endurance, and compliance with maritime safety regulations. It offers a structured career path with opportunities for advancement through experience and certification.

How to become a crew member on a container ship?

To become a container ship crew member, applicants typically need to complete maritime training and obtain relevant certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping). Prior experience in seamanship, navigation, or engineering is often required, and candidates must pass medical examinations and background checks. English language skills and physical fitness are also important for working onboard.

What does a typical work schedule look like for container ship crew members?

Container ship crew members generally work in shifts, commonly following a watch system that divides duties across 24 hours to ensure the vessel is always staffed. Schedules can include long periods at sea, often several weeks or even months, followed by periods of shore leave. While onboard, crew members alternate between periods of active duty—such as performing maintenance, cargo operations, or navigation—and rest. This rotational schedule promotes safety and ensures continuous vessel operations during international voyages.

How much do container ship crews make?

Container ship crew members' salaries vary based on experience, rank, and voyage length, but typically range from $2,000 to $8,000 per month. Officers and engineers tend to earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and allowances for living at sea. Certifications such as STCW are required, and crews usually work on contracts that last several months before rotation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Container Ship Crew position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Container Ship Crew member, you need solid seamanship, physical fitness, and a basic understanding of maritime safety protocols; most roles require a valid STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certificate. Familiarity with navigation tools, cargo handling equipment, and safety-management systems is typically required. Teamwork, effective communication, and problem-solving skills are essential soft skills for success. These abilities ensure efficient ship operations, crew safety, and the smooth transportation of cargo across international waters.

Can I work on a cargo ship with no experience?

Container ship crew positions typically require some training or certification, such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping), but entry-level roles like ordinary seaman or deckhand may be available to those with minimal experience. Prior maritime knowledge or skills are beneficial, and companies often provide on-the-job training for new crew members. Basic physical fitness and the ability to work in a team environment are also important.

Is it hard to get a job on a container ship?

Securing a position as a container ship crew member can be competitive and often requires relevant certifications such as STCW, physical fitness, and experience in maritime environments. Entry-level roles may be easier to obtain with proper training, but higher-ranking positions typically demand more experience and specialized skills.
More about Container Ship Crew jobs
What states have the most Container Ship Crew jobs? States with the most job openings for Container Ship Crew jobs include:
Infographic showing various Container Ship Crew job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,261 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Operator I, Mobile Crane - Stevedoring

Operator I, Mobile Crane - Stevedoring

Gulf Stream Marine

Corpus Christi, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview
This position is responsible for safely operating a crane (Friction Crane and Lattice Boom) to load and unload cargo and containers into and from the vessel in the stevedoring operations terminal.
Qualifications

  • Completion of a formal Mobile Crane Operator training program.
  • Prior experience as a qualified Ship Crane Operator (Winchman) required.
  • Strong understanding of crane mechanics, load charts, and rigging principles.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
  • TWIC card required (or ability to obtain).
  • Forklift certification preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and communicate effectively with supervisors and ground crew.
  • Willingness to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and be on-call for emergencies.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Subject to physical and/or DOT screening and other applicable tests.
  • Must be able to work at high altitudes and in confined spaces.
  • Continuous sitting while operating cranes; frequent grasping and coordination tasks.
  • Frequent reaching, repetitive foot/wrist motion, and finger dexterity.
  • Occasional standing, walking, climbing, bending, squatting, twisting, and overhead reaching.
  • Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 55 pounds.
  • Specific vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
  • Exposure to outdoor environmental conditions, including extreme heat, rain, wind, cold, and humidity
Responsibilities
  • Operate friction 3900/4000/4100 class cranes and lattice booms to lift and move materials, machines, containers, or other cargo in a waterfront setting.
  • Perform daily inspections of mobile cranes and report any deficiencies or maintenance needs.
  • Review lift requirements with the Operations leadership.
  • Understand and apply information from the crane manufacturer's operating manual.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of crane functions, limitations, and load chart(s).
  • Follow lockout/tagout procedures and ensure proper equipment setup.
  • Test crane function controls to confirm proper response before use.
  • Operate the crane smoothly and safely under normal conditions.
  • Set up and travel the crane as required for operations.
  • Confirm load and rigging weights before lifting.
  • Shut down and secure the crane properly when unattended.
  • Apply basic rigging procedures and ensure proper rigging is in place.
  • Exercise the right to halt operations or refuse unsafe lifts.
  • Maintain compliance with all safety procedures and operational guidelines.