1

Docks Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Salvation Army, an internationally recognized non-profit, faith-based organization, has a job opening for Dock Foreman in the ARC - Adult Rehabilitation Center. We offer competitive benefits ...

The Salvation Army, an internationally recognized non-profit, faith-based organization, has a job opening for Dock Foreman in the ARC - Adult Rehabilitation Center. We offer competitive benefits ...

Dock Master Location: Reston, VA Introduction: Mano Lani LLC has openings for multiple Dock Masters. This position will support the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) providing enterprise logistics ...

Dock Master Location: Reston, VA Introduction: Mano Lani LLC has openings for multiple Dock Masters. This position will support the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) providing enterprise logistics ...

Manages daily dockworker activities and ensures compliance with company policies and government regulations. Major Tasks and Responsibilities * Oversees safe and efficient dock operations for all ...

Dock Master Location: Reston, VA Introduction: Mano Lani LLC has openings for multiple Dock Masters. This position will support the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) providing enterprise logistics ...

Be able to formulate a blocking plan to accommodate each vessel the yard docks as each one has different and varying requirements. * Also assigned the responsibility to ensure that all vessels in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Docks information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$23

$27

How much do docks jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for docks in Virginia is $23.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.61 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dock worker?

Docks are areas along the waterfront where ships are loaded and unloaded. Dock workers, also known as longshoremen or stevedores, are responsible for handling cargo, securing ships, and ensuring smooth operations at the port. Their duties may include operating machinery, moving containers, and maintaining safety standards. Dock work can be physically demanding and often requires teamwork and adherence to strict schedules. Safety is a top priority due to the heavy equipment and large volumes of goods handled.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dock worker?

To thrive as a Dock Worker, you need physical stamina, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, forklifts, pallet jacks, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Reliability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient loading and unloading operations, workplace safety, and smooth logistics flow within the supply chain.

What are some common challenges faced by dock workers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Dock workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling heavy or hazardous cargo, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial to ensure smooth operations, especially during busy shipping periods. To manage these challenges, it’s important to follow safety guidelines, participate in regular training sessions, and remain adaptable to changing schedules and tasks. Building strong relationships with team members and supervisors can also help in resolving issues quickly and maintaining a safe, efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Docks vs Warehouse Workers?

AspectDocksWarehouse Workers
CredentialsMay require forklift certification, OSHA trainingTypically need OSHA training, possibly forklift certification
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading at docks, outdoor or warehouse exteriorInside warehouse, handling inventory and packing
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, freight companiesWarehousing, distribution centers, retail
Job FocusHandling freight, operating forklifts, loading trucksInventory management, packing, shipping

While both Docks and Warehouse Workers operate within logistics and shipping environments, Docks primarily focus on loading and unloading freight at docks, often requiring forklift operation and outdoor work. Warehouse Workers handle inventory inside warehouses, focusing on packing, sorting, and inventory management. Both roles may require OSHA training and forklift certification, but their work settings and specific duties differ.

How to get a job working on the docks?

To work on the docks, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and physical stamina. Relevant skills include operating forklifts or cranes, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects. Applying through shipping companies, freight firms, or labor unions is common practice.

What exactly do docks do?

Docks workers are responsible for loading and unloading cargo from ships, ensuring proper handling and safety. They operate equipment such as forklifts and cranes, and often work outdoors in varying weather conditions, requiring physical strength and safety training. Their tasks are essential for efficient maritime or freight operations.
Infographic showing various Docks job openings in Virginia 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 $48,908 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Dock Foreman

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site


tsa
National Security and International Affairs • 10K+ employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 241 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

142nd of 295 rated public sector bodies

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

The Salvation Army, an internationally recognized non-profit, faith-based organization, has a job opening for Dock Foreman in the ARC – Adult Rehabilitation Center.

We offer competitive benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, and Hearing Insurance plans; Group Life Insurance; Retirement Benefits; Education Assistance; and Paid Time Off.

Job Summary

Supervises, instructs, trains, assigns, and evaluates the work of employees and beneficiaries working on the warehouse dock loading, unloading, and distributing merchandise; ensures compliance with established policies and procedures and safety standards; prepares routine records and reports regarding dock operations. Observes and coaches on matters pertaining to acceptable job performances and behavior; assists in evaluating clients’ work habits, attitudes, and skills so that a realistic rehabilitation plan can be designed; trains beneficiaries in acceptable work habits and skills in order to develop appropriate attitudes so that the beneficiary can eventually leave The Salvation Army for gainful employment. Supervises the unloading of trucks ensuring timely and appropriate dispersal of materials to the designated locations on the dock and/or shops where they will be processed. Inspects all trucks arriving after routes to determine if trucks have been properly loaded and instructs Truck Drivers in the proper methods and procedures for loading merchandise. Supervises the loading of baled goods into trucks or containers; supervises and participates in the loading of the dump truck ensuring that items are properly prepared for the dump such as the removal of refrigerator doors, etc. Supervises the preparation, arranging, and inventorying of merchandise to be sold at auction and directs all cleaning activities following the auction. Conducts daily dump-lift truck inspections, route truck inventory, safety inspections, and prepares reports. Performs routine preventative maintenance on the dump truck, lift truck, and other vehicles under his/her control. Prepares and conducts regular safety and production meetings; documents and maintains list of attendees. Ensures the accountability and security of all merchandise processed through the dock area and identifies merchandise that should be discarded. 

 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of the principles and practices of materials handling, distribution, and storage. Knowledge of assigned geographical area. Ability to successfully supervise, motivate and evaluate dock personnel. Knowledge of dock operations and local, state and federal safety regulations in order to ensure that the dock is operating within those regulations and in accordance with established Salvation Army policies and procedures. Ability to prepare, organize, file, and maintain, accurate and complete inventory records and reports. Ability to successfully interact with a variety of personalities to include but not limited to co-workers, management staff and beneficiaries. 

 

Education and Experience

High school diploma or GED preferred but not required and one year of experience supervising warehouse personnel in the loading, unloading and/or distributing merchandise or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. 

 

Licenses and Certifications

Valid State Driver’s License preferred

 

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Ability to meet attendance requirements. Ability to read, write, and communicate in the English language. Ability to read, understand, and follow various written instructions and manuals. Moderate amount of strenuous physical effort required associated with sitting, walking, standing, lifting, bending, reaching, twisting, pushing, pulling, and carrying heavy objects (potentially over 50 lbs.) 25-50% of work time. Work requires exposure to the outdoors where there are physical discomforts associated with changes in weather such as rain, cold, snow, heat or discomforts associated with noise, dust, dirt and the like.

Additional Information

All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree that they will do nothing as an employee of The Salvation Army to undermine its religious mission.

To apply, please select the “Apply Now” icon at the bottom of this posting.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled



What Transportation Security Administration employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom