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Container Ship Security Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

You'll design and ship reliable services in Go, working with known-hard problems like graph data ... S. national security outcomes. Who You Are * You care about building systems that have real-world ...

You'll design and ship reliable services in Go, working with known-hard problems like graph data ... S. national security outcomes. Who You Are * You care about building systems that have real-world ...

Senior AI/ML Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

FedRAMP, FIPS 140-2/3, IronBank container hardening, OPA policy enforcement, or Section 508 ... security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the ...

Senior AI/ML Software Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

FedRAMP, FIPS 140-2/3, IronBank container hardening, OPA policy enforcement, or Section 508 ... security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the ...

Senior AI/ML Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

FedRAMP, FIPS 140-2/3, IronBank container hardening, OPA policy enforcement, or Section 508 ... security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the ...

Senior AI/ML Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

FedRAMP, FIPS 140-2/3, IronBank container hardening, OPA policy enforcement, or Section 508 ... security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the ...

Senior AI/ML Software Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

FedRAMP, FIPS 140-2/3, IronBank container hardening, OPA policy enforcement, or Section 508 ... security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the ...

Senior AI/ML Software Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

FedRAMP, FIPS 140-2/3, IronBank container hardening, OPA policy enforcement, or Section 508 ... security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the ...

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Container Ship Security information

See Washington salary details

$12

$23

$59

How much do container ship security jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for container ship security in Washington is $23.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $25.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a cargo ship security guard?

To become a cargo ship security guard, candidates typically need a maritime security certification such as the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code training, along with relevant security or law enforcement experience. Physical fitness, background checks, and sometimes a valid maritime or security license are also required, and employment often involves working in port environments or onboard ships for scheduled shifts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Container Ship Security Officer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Container Ship Security Officer, you need a solid understanding of maritime security regulations, risk assessment, and emergency response procedures, often supported by certifications like the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control tools, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong observational skills, decisive problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for preventing and responding to threats. These competencies ensure the safety of crew, cargo, and vessel operations in compliance with international maritime security standards.

What are container ship security jobs?

Container ship security jobs involve protecting cargo vessels, their crew, and goods from threats such as piracy, theft, terrorism, and unauthorized access while at sea or in port. Security personnel may be responsible for monitoring ship access points, conducting security patrols, implementing safety protocols, and coordinating with port authorities. These roles are crucial for ensuring the safe transport of valuable goods across international waters and often require specialized training in maritime security procedures.

Do cargo ships hire private security?

Container ship security personnel are often hired to protect cargo ships from piracy, theft, and other threats. These private security teams may include armed guards and are typically contracted through specialized security companies, especially in high-risk areas. Crew members usually do not perform security duties unless trained and certified for such roles.

What is the difference between Container Ship Security vs Cargo Security Officer?

AspectContainer Ship SecurityCargo Security Officer
CertificationsISPS Code, STCWSecurity certifications, sometimes ISPS
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, port facilitiesPorts, warehouses, transport vehicles
Employer & IndustryShipping lines, maritime security firmsLogistics companies, ports, freight companies
Job FocusShip security, anti-piracy, access controlCargo protection, theft prevention, inspection

Container Ship Security professionals focus on safeguarding ships and ports from piracy and unauthorized access, often working onboard vessels or at port facilities. Cargo Security Officers concentrate on protecting cargo from theft or damage during storage and transport, typically working in ports or warehouses. Both roles require security certifications and are vital in the maritime and logistics industries, but their work environments and specific duties differ.

How much do cargo ship security guards make?

Cargo ship security guards typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on the size of the vessel, location, and whether the role involves offshore or port security duties.

What are some common challenges faced when working in container ship security, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in container ship security often encounter challenges such as monitoring large, complex cargo areas, coordinating with multinational crews, and responding quickly to potential security breaches or stowaways. Effective management involves strong communication skills, thorough knowledge of international maritime security regulations (like the ISPS Code), and regular security drills. Building good working relationships with port authorities and maintaining up-to-date training helps ensure prompt and coordinated responses to incidents.

What is the highest paid security guard job?

The highest paid security guard jobs are typically in specialized fields such as executive protection, corporate security management, or security consulting, often requiring advanced training, certifications, and experience. These roles can offer salaries exceeding $70,000 annually, especially for those overseeing large operations or working in high-risk environments.
What are popular job titles related to Container Ship Security jobs in Washington? For Container Ship Security jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Container Ship Security jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Container Ship Security jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Container Ship Security job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,734 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT)

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About The Role: Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking a Systems Engineer to be part of our Warfare Systems team and based out of our Arlington, VA or Mount Laurel, NJ location. The Systems Engineer will work as a critical part of a multi-discipline team focused on the DODโ€™s initiatives in support of tactical capability development for Navy surface and unmanned (UxVs) platforms.  The Warfare Systems project domains include real-time automated test and analysis, virtual computing environments, Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML) based data analytics, cybersecurity, as well as backfit and forward-fit tactical solutions. The successful candidate will be fiercely accountable for the delivery of uncompromisingly punctual and fiscally disciplined solutions that not only meet but go above and beyond the expectations of every customer. The Warfare Systems business area is one of six mission critical business units within the IDT organization and is directly responsible for building, testing, and deploying the Navyโ€™s next generation of tactical warfare and weapons systems.  As the nation enters the โ€˜technology-firstโ€™ era of warfare, the Warfare Systems group will be responsible for enabling and accelerating the mission critical tactical capability that is delivered to the warfighter.  The Warfare System Systems Engineer will work with our team of software and systems engineers building tactically relevant and technically innovative solutions to ensure the highest impact to the US Navy. Clearance & Location Requirements: * All applicants must currently possess an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance. * This is an on-site position. Requiring 5 days in office, based out of our Arlington, VA and Mount Laurel, NJ locations. What You Will Do:  * Design, implement, and test complex software in C, C++, Python, JavaScript, and Java within various development environments.
* Analyze legacy monolithic software programs, recompiling them, and incrementally apply refactoring to modernize the software using the โ€œbrownfieldโ€ and โ€œgreenfieldโ€ methodologies.
* Technical assessment and deconstruction of Navy tactical system code for Surface Navy Combat systems.
* Explore and prototype next-generation solutions using artificial intelligence/machine learning, distributed processing, and modeling.
* Interact with customers to elicit requirements and document agreements.
* Present to organization leadership on project cost, schedule, and technical progress.
* Software architecture development including hardware and software interfaces between software components.
* Assist in developing user, functional, and technical requirements for tactical systems.
* Participate and provide feedback for design & code/peer reviews.
* Integrate individual software components into complex software environments.
* Support test and integration activities at IDT labs and government Land Based Test Sites (LBTS). Who You Are (Required): * Bachelorโ€™s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent full-time professional experience.
* Minimum of 5 years of full-time professional experience * Ability to travel up to 10% of the time, as needed * Familiarity with combat system design and software
* Familiarity and experience with developing tactical systems software on DOD programs.
* Familiarity with C, C++, Python, and/or Java programming languages
* Adept with developing in Linux OS environments, including shell scripting.
* Ability to decompose and document requirements and specifications.
* Understanding of distributed systems, algorithms, data structures and software design patterns, especially the Strangler Pattern
* Experience with Agile software development processes
* Proficiency working within a Git CM environment
* Comfortable with DevSecOps best practices
* Ability to convert vague customer requirements into a refined vision.
* Ability to identify and describe algorithmic complexity.
* Ability to work on-site with potential hybrid flexibility.
What Makes You Stand Out: * Familiarity with the AEGIS Weapon System Common Source Library (CSL), ideally, or Ship Self Defense System (SSDS) Single Source Library (SSL)
* Experience with AEGIS, ideally, or SSDS tactical systems
* Experience utilizing Make build system, Maven, and Ant scripting
* Experience with X-Windows
* Familiar with Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) methodologies
* Experience with Jenkins, Jira, and the Atlassian tool suite
* Familiarity with foundational networking concepts such as routing, switching, identity services, intrusion detection, and firewall * Familiarity deploying virtual machines in VMWare vSphere environments including networking configuration * Familiarity designing complex software development environments including submodules, remote dependencies, and mixed-code deployments
* Familiarity deploying virtual machines and/or containers into Azure cloud environments including networking configuration
* Solid analytical abilities, coupled with a strong sense of ownership, urgency, and drive * Problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate ambiguous situations * Excellence in oral, written, and technical communication with peers and non-technical cohorts * Initiative, creativity, reliability, teamwork * Strong organization and planning skills * Attention to detail while ability to see and understand the big picture
If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network. Pay Range*: $114,000 - $184,000 or $135,000 - $231,000 *Pursuant to New Jersey Senate Bill 2310 IDT is required to disclose the โ€œpay scaleโ€ or โ€œpay rangeโ€ associated with a job posting. Notably, however, this amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidateโ€™s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. Click here for additional information about Senate Bill 2310. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience. This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidateโ€™s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.  About Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT): Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is a leading defense technology company focused on rapidly delivering mission-critical software and systems solutions to the U.S. government. The company specializes in automation, digital engineering, and enabling the rapid integration of advanced capabilities into complex weapon and combat systems. These essential solutions empower the warfighter to field, operate, and sustain decisive capability at speed and scale. At IDT, our employees are developing advanced mission-critical outcomes by consistently delivering high-quality results, fostering innovation, applying rigorous problem-solving, and effectively collaborating across multifaceted teams and stakeholders. Grounded in these competencies, IDT translates complex customer priorities into robust software solutions. Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT): IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:   * Generous benefits package 
* Competitive PTO 
* Paid holidays 
* 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching 
* 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)  
* Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program * Professional Development Resources 
* Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits * Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
* Annual Employee Recognition Awards 
* Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches  EEO Statement: IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer. Apply Apply Later โ† Back to Current Openings