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Deckhand Cargo Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hines Furlong Line

Experienced Deckhand

Paducah, KY · Remote

Deckhands are primarily responsible for the safety of fellow crew members, the vessel, the cargo ... Perform assigned firefighting, man overboard and abandon ship duties as assigned on the Station ...

Hines Furlong Line

Inexperienced Deckhand

Paducah, KY · Remote

Deckhands are primarily responsible for the safety of fellow crew members, the vessel, the cargo ... Perform assigned firefighting, man overboard and abandon ship duties as assigned on the Station ...

Next Gen Logistics

Tugboat Deckhand

New Orleans, LA · Remote

  • Retirement

Perform routine maintenance tasks * Assist with the loading and unloading of cargo * Handles ... Develop understanding of all phases of shipboard safety procedures and knowledge of location and ...

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Deckhand Cargo Ship information

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$12

$21

$30

How much do deckhand cargo ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for deckhand cargo ship in the United States is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deckhand on a cargo ship?

Deckhands on a cargo ship are entry-level crew members responsible for a variety of tasks that help ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. Their duties typically include cleaning and maintaining the ship, securing cargo, assisting with docking and undocking procedures, and helping with general ship operations. Deckhands also participate in safety drills and may be required to assist in emergencies. This role is physically demanding and often involves working in challenging weather conditions. Deckhands play a vital part in keeping cargo ships running smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a deckhand on a cargo ship?

To thrive as a Deckhand on a Cargo Ship, you need physical stamina, basic seamanship, and knowledge of maritime safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and STCW certification. Familiarity with cargo handling equipment, ropes, and marine communication systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions set outstanding deckhands apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient operations and maintaining the vessel's overall functionality.

What are some common challenges faced by deckhands on cargo ships and how can they be managed?

Deckhands on cargo ships often encounter challenges such as adapting to long periods at sea, working in various weather conditions, and performing physically demanding tasks like securing cargo and maintaining the ship's equipment. Effective time management, strong teamwork, and adherence to safety protocols are essential for handling these challenges. Building good communication with officers and fellow crew members also helps ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely, contributing to a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Deckhand Cargo Ship vs Deckhand Tanker Ship?

AspectDeckhand Cargo ShipDeckhand Tanker Ship
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Deckhand CertificationSTCW Basic Safety, Marine Deckhand Certification
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading cargo, deck maintenance, safety drillsHandling liquid cargo, safety procedures for tankers
Industry UsageFreight shipping, container and bulk cargoOil, chemicals, liquid bulk transport

Both Deckhand Cargo Ship and Deckhand Tanker Ship roles require similar certifications and work environments, focusing on deck maintenance and safety. The main difference lies in the cargo type: cargo ships handle solid freight, while tanker ships deal with liquids. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers choose the right maritime career path.

How long are deckhand cargo ship shifts?

Deckhand cargo ship shifts typically last 8 to 12 hours, with schedules often including day, night, or rotating shifts. Crew members may work several days in a row followed by days off, depending on the vessel's operational needs and company policies.

How much does a deckhand cargo ship make?

A deckhand on a cargo ship typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the shipping company. Salaries can increase with seniority, specialized skills, and longer contracts, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

How to become a deckhand cargo ship?

To become a deckhand on a cargo ship, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic safety training such as STCW certification, and physical fitness. Gaining experience through entry-level maritime jobs or apprenticeships and obtaining necessary certifications can improve employment prospects in this maritime role.

Is it hard to get a job as a deckhand cargo ship?

Getting a job as a deckhand on a cargo ship can be competitive and typically requires relevant maritime certifications, physical fitness, and experience with safety procedures. Entry-level positions may be accessible with proper training, but advancing often depends on gaining experience and additional qualifications such as STCW certification.
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Deckhand Cargo Ship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Deckhand Cargo Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 77% In-person, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Vessel Deckhand

Carlsen Mooring & Marine Services LLC

Beaumont, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 hours ago

Job description


Role Objectives: Must work 14/7 (liveaboard) schedule and be willing to travel as needed. The role of vessel deckhand is to assist the Captain and crew in the safe, timely, efficient, and orderly operation of the company’s vessel. The vessel deckhand must be familiar with the dedicated to the passenger safety policy. Work as a team to ensure that all cargo and passenger deliveries are completed safely and in a timely manner. Performs a variety of operations involving rigging cargo for crane lifts and maintenance tasks to preserve the painted surface of the ship and to maintain line and ship equipment. The deckhand will participate in cooking and cleaning as assigned by the captain. Required to report all accidents/incidents, to vessel Captain 
 
Key Responsibilities:
  • Handle lines to moor vessels to wharfs, to tie up vessels to other vessels, or to rig towing lines.
  •  Maintenance of vessels: cleaning, painting, scraping, assist with engine maintenance/repairs, and fueling.
  •  Participate in safety training and drills.
  •  Assist in emergency situations as required by captain.
  •  Stand watch in ships' bows or bridge wings to look for obstructions in a ship's path or to locate
  • navigational aids such as buoys and channel markers.
  •  Chip and clean rust spots on decks, superstructures, and hull.
  •  Assist in loading/offloading cargo.
  •  Deploy/Recover spill boom equipment.
  •  Sweep, mop, and wash down decks to remove oil, dirt, and debris.
  •  Break out, rig, overhaul, and store cargo-handling gear, stationary rigging, and running gear.
  •  Load or unload materials from vessels to include stores, water, fuel and lubricants.
  •  Operate, maintain, and repair ship equipment such as winches, cranes, and anchor.
  •  Other duties and special projects as assigned. 
 Knowledge/Skill Requirements: 
  • Valid Driver’s License. 
  •  Valid Transportation Worker ID Card (TWIC.) 
  • Effectively communicate both orally and in writing 
  • Ability to identify a problem/potential problem 
 Education/Experience: 
  • High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate) 
  • 1-2 years of related experience required 
  • Ability to obtain a MMC and USCG Medical Certificate 
  • Rigging 
 
Physical Requirements:
  •  Ability exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently and up to 20 pounds of force constantly.
  •  Ability to climb stairs/ladders.
  •  Ability to Stand for Extended Periods.
  •  Operate motor vehicles.
  • Wear personal protective equipment, including but not limited to hard hat, steel-toed safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, safety glasses, goggles and full body coveralls.
  •  Ability to work around moving machinery.
  •  Ability to perform under stress, under pressure, and/or in emergency situations.
  •  Ability to work in adverse weather conditions (Cold or Heat).
  •  Ability to comprehend, remember, and follow verbal and written directions and comply with Company policies, procedures and standards.
  •  Ability to work at heights (scaffolding or ladders). 
  •  Ability to work in noisy environments. 
  • Ability to work as a team, communicate and interact with others in a professional manner, and consider alternative and diverse perspectives. 
  • Requires hearing, talking, grasping quickly, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, and crawling. 
  • The worker is subject to environmental conditions with no protection from the weather. 
  • The worker is subject to noise, vibration, hazards, and is frequently in close quarters and small enclosed rooms and is required to function in narrow aisles or passageways. 
 
Working Conditions:
  •  Requires working on or near moving equipment and vibrating equipment.
  •  Work near others, usually within a few feet.
  •  Outdoors and indoors, day and night, as well as over/near water.
  •  Frequently the humidity is above 90%, noise is over 85 decibels, and the light is intense/glare.
  •  Potential exposure to open fire/flames/sparks.
  •  Constant exposure to airborne dust, fumes, and gases.
  •  Work surface is stable, height is elevated.
  •  Worker is subject to environmental conditions both inside and outside, with no effective protection from weather, with sufficient noise to cause the
  • worker to shout to be heard, and to physical hazards, such as moving parts, vehicles, electricity, heights, and large bodies of deep water