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Entry Level Cargo Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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cdl driver with hazmat endorsement

El Paso, TX · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... trip inspections of the vehicle and cargo * Maintain accurate delivery documentation * Adhere to day shift schedules and company policies Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in ...

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Entry Level Cargo Inspector information

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$11K

$59.6K

$90.5K

How much do entry level cargo inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cargo inspector in the United States is $59,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cargo Inspector vs Cargo Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Cargo InspectorCargo Coordinator
CertificationsBasic safety and inspection certificationsLogistics and supply chain certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentInspection sites, ports, warehousesOffice settings, shipping yards, ports
Job FocusInspecting cargo for damage, compliance, and safetyCoordinating cargo movement, scheduling, documentation
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, ports, freight firmsLogistics companies, freight forwarding, shipping lines

While both roles are involved in cargo handling, the Entry Level Cargo Inspector primarily focuses on inspecting and ensuring cargo safety and compliance. In contrast, a Cargo Coordinator manages the logistics, scheduling, and documentation of cargo shipments. Both roles are essential in the shipping industry but differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

In general, senior or specialized inspectors such as quality control inspectors, aviation inspectors, or nuclear inspectors tend to earn higher salaries due to their expertise and certifications. Cargo inspectors with advanced skills, certifications, or experience in high-volume or complex environments may also earn more, especially if they oversee large shipments or work for major companies. Salary levels often depend on industry, location, and level of responsibility.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level cargo inspectors during their daily inspections?

Entry level cargo inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling time-sensitive inspections, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Adapting to new procedures and learning to use specialized inspection equipment can also be demanding at first. Team communication is essential, as inspectors frequently coordinate with warehouse staff, supervisors, and transportation personnel to ensure accurate documentation and efficient cargo movement.

What is a cargo inspector?

A cargo inspector is a professional responsible for examining shipments to ensure they meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards. They typically inspect containers, packages, and cargo loads, often using tools like inspection reports and safety protocols, and may require certifications such as OSHA or industry-specific licenses. The role involves working in warehouses, ports, or transportation environments to verify proper handling and documentation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Cargo Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cargo Inspector, you need attention to detail, basic knowledge of shipping and safety regulations, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inspection tools, handheld scanners, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, effective communication, and reliability help you stand out in this role. These capabilities are vital to ensure cargo is accurately inspected, documented, and safe for transportation, maintaining regulatory compliance and efficient supply chain operations.

What does an Entry Level Cargo Inspector do?

An Entry Level Cargo Inspector is responsible for examining and verifying shipments of goods to ensure they comply with safety, quality, and regulatory standards. They inspect cargo for damage, check documentation, and monitor loading and unloading processes. Their role is crucial in preventing the transport of hazardous or non-compliant materials and ensuring accurate record-keeping. Entry-level inspectors typically work under the supervision of more experienced staff and may receive on-the-job training.

What is the highest paying job on a cargo ship?

The highest paying jobs on a cargo ship are typically senior officer positions such as the chief mate or captain, with captains earning the most due to their responsibilities for navigation and safety. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often come with higher salaries compared to other crew positions.

Can you get a job on a ship with no experience?

Entry level cargo inspector positions typically require some knowledge of cargo handling and safety procedures, but many companies offer on-the-job training for candidates with no prior experience. Basic skills such as attention to detail and ability to work in a team are important, and obtaining relevant certifications like STCW may improve job prospects. Prior maritime or inspection experience is not always necessary for entry-level roles.
More about Entry Level Cargo Inspector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cargo Inspector jobs? The most popular types of Cargo Inspector jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cargo Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cargo Inspector jobs are:
Entry Level Cargo Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cargo Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,604 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Caleb Brett - Entry-Level Petroleum Inspector

Intertek Global

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Caleb Brett - Entry-Level Petroleum Inspector - Cincinnati, Ohio

Intertek, a leading provider of quality and safety solutions to many of the world's top-recognized brands and companies, is actively seeking an entry-level Petroleum Inspector to join our Caleb Brett team in Cincinnati, OH. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow a versatile career  in the Inspection and Testing business, with  Intertek, a Global and Award- winning leader in the ATIC Industry!

Intertek Caleb Brett provides specialized Cargo inspection and analytical assessment services to the oil and gas, chemical and other commodities markets. With a global network of laboratories, 24/7 availability, and more than 130 years of exceptional customer service, our customers receive independent inspection and testing with industry-leading customer service.

Intertek / Caleb Brett is continually innovating and evolving to reduce risk for consumers, brands and organizations in every sector and industry around the world. We go beyond Testing, Inspection and Certification of products: we are a Total Quality Assurance Provider to industries worldwide. Our Purpose: Bringing quality, safety, and sustainability to life.

What are we looking for?

The Petroleum Inspector is responsible performing the necessary volume measurements, temperature measurements, sampling, calculations, documentation and reporting which ensures that the customer receives an independent, accurate and complete assessment of quantity and quality of material. This position will travel at least 75% of the time. 

Salary & Benefits Information

Individual compensation packages are based on a variety of factors unique to each candidate including skillset, experience, qualifications, and other job-related duties.

In addition to competitive compensation packages, when working with Intertek you can expect benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k) with company match, generous vacation / sick time (PTO), tuition reimbursement and more.

What you'll do:

  • Understand and adhere to Caleb Brett safety procedures
  • Able to perform by specified methodology the below duties in addition to completing the associated paperwork
  • Volume measurement, temperature measurement and sampling of commodity materials contained or conveyed in lines, shore tanks, cars, tank trucks and barges and ships
  • Visual inspections on lines, pumps, manifolds, shore tanks, rail cars, tank trucks, barges and ships
  • Complete custody transfer surveys of commodities transferred to and from rail cars, tank trucks, shore tanks, barges and ships
  • Perform routine equipment calibrations, verification and function checks
  • Verify and communicate the results obtained and to make the entries into the appropriate media
  • Provide on the job assistance and receive training from more experienced inspectors
  • To communicate and coordinate with terminal, transport and Company personnel to promote smooth exercise of duties assigned
  • To monitor the availability of the supplies needed for the above processes, and to make any needs for such supplies known to the Dispatcher or Coordinator
  • To perform routine equipment calibration, verification and function checks
  • To organize and coordinate jobs so that services are rendered, and reports and samples are submitted in a timely manner
  • To maintain work areas, records and equipment in a clean, organized and functional condition
  • To verify and communicate the results obtained and to make the entries into the appropriate media, whether print or electronic, required to ensure the validity and traceability of the information
  • Model Intertek's 10X Energies at all times within the workplace, practicing business the right way
  • Be aware of and adhere to safety practices and policies to ensure your own safety, as well as the safety of others who may be affected by your actions at work

Minimum Requirements and Qualifications

  • Must have basic grasp of basic mathematics and work in an automated environment.
  • Ability to work on an on-call basis
  • Cannot have a fear of heights
  • Ability to climb ladders and stairs for shore tanks
  • Valid driver's license and reliable driving record (required)
  • Must have or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment with shifting priorities and demanding deadlines
  • Must be detailed oriented and able to effectively prioritize and organize workload with efficient time management
  • Ability to communicate and interact effectively in verbal, written and presentation skills
  • Ability to travel as business needs dictate - up to 75% of the time

Physical Requirements:

  • Physical requirements to include lifting, walking, standing, reaching, bending, stooping, climbing, squatting and driving
  • Ability to climb ladders and stairs for shore tanks

Preferred Requirements and Qualifications:

  • Previous experience performing petroleum inspections is preferred
  • TIC certified is a plus

Intertek: Total Quality. Assured.

Intertek is a world leader in the Quality Assurance market, with a proven, high-quality business model and a global network of customer-focused operations and highly engaged subject matter experts. With passion, pace, and precision we work to exceed our customers' expectations, while engaging with our employees to be 10X in their performance and professional growth.

Intertek is a drug-free workplace. As a condition of employment, certain positions may be required to pass a pre-employment drug test based on the type of work that will be performed.

We Value Diversity

Intertek's network of phenomenal people are our greatest assets, and the diversity they bring fuels our success. Intertek is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer that values inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

For individuals with disabilities who would like to request accommodation, or who need assistance applying, please email hr.eeo@intertek.com or call 1-877-694-8543 (option #5) to speak with a member of the HR Department.

#LI-DW1

*Intertek does not accept unsolicited approaches from agencies and will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume.

Intertek is a leading Total Quality Assurance provider to industries worldwide. Our network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices in more than 100 countries, delivers innovative and bespoke Assurance, Testing, Inspection and Certification (ATIC) solutions for our customers' operations and supply chains. Working at Intertek means joining a global network of state-of-the-art facilities and passionate people who deliver superior customer service with a purpose of bringing quality, safety, and sustainability to life. Intertek Caleb Brett is leading Total Quality Assurance provider to industries worldwide and experts in qualitative and quantitative analytical assessment services to the oil and gas, chemical, and other commodities markets. With international 24/7/365 service and coordination coverage, we treat each cargo as if it were our own.

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