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Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maersk

Conversion - WMS Engineer

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site +1

$129K/yr

Our facilities are capable of receiving, storing, processing and dispatching cargo, so we can build flexibility and resilience into the supply chain process. Our integrated solutions allow us to be ...

Maersk

Conversion - WMS Engineer

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$129K/yr

Our facilities are capable of receiving, storing, processing and dispatching cargo, so we can build flexibility and resilience into the supply chain process.Our integrated solutions allow us to be ...

Hornbeck Offshore

3rd Assistant Engineer

Covington, LA · On-site

... shipboard engineering systems and equipment and is responsible for representing, enforcing, and ... bulk and liquid cargo transfer systems, fuel management systems, bilge and ballast systems ...

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Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do entry level cargo ship engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cargo ship engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer vs Entry Level Marine Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Cargo Ship EngineerEntry Level Marine Engineer
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Engine Room CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Marine Engineering Certifications
Work EnvironmentCargo ships, engine rooms, maritime settingsMaritime vessels, engine rooms, ship operations
Industry UsageShipping companies, cargo transportationMaritime industry, shipping lines

Both roles involve working in engine rooms on ships, requiring similar certifications and working environments. The main difference is that a Cargo Ship Engineer specifically focuses on cargo vessels, while a Marine Engineer may work on various types of ships. Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineers typically start with similar responsibilities and certifications as Entry Level Marine Engineers, making their roles closely aligned in the maritime industry.

Can I work on an entry level cargo ship engineer with no experience?

Entry level cargo ship engineer positions typically require some technical training or certification, such as a merchant mariner credential, but may not require prior work experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training to new hires, and having a basic understanding of ship systems and safety procedures can improve chances of employment.

How much do entry level cargo ship engineers make?

Entry-level cargo ship engineers typically earn between $3,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on the shipping company, vessel size, and geographic route. Salaries often increase with experience, certifications, and additional responsibilities onboard.

How to become an entry level cargo ship engineer?

To become an entry-level cargo ship engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete a maritime training program or obtain a relevant certification such as the Merchant Mariner Credential. Prior experience or internships in marine engineering can be beneficial, and strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of ship systems are essential for entry into the field.
More about Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cargo Ship Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Cargo Ship Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Entry-Level Engineering - Wiper/Conveyorman

Interlake Steamship Company

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

A Wiper or Conveyorman may either be an experienced or entry level unlicensed position working primarily in the shipboard Engineering Department. Primary responsibilities may include maintaining and operating the vessel cargo handling system as a Conveyorman, or assisting the shipboard Engineering Department with daily maintenance and operations of engineering spaces and systems as a Wiper. Additional responsibilities are listed below based on the type of role filling.

A wiper may be required to work in any shipboard department, including Deck, Engine, or Galley based on the needs or the vessel.

Primary Responsibilities:

Conveyorman:

  • Responsible to the First Assistant Engineer for maintaining the cargo handling system as well as overseeing the cargo handling system during cargo operations
  • Familiarity with the company Safety Management System (SMS)
  • Report to the First Mate for cargo issues other than equipment
  • Monitoring and tracking of all cargo handling equipment, including reporting equipment, spare part, and consumable cargo handling equipment needs to the First Assistant Engineer
  • Responding in accordance with the duties listed on the Station Bill
  • Employee must understand commands, both written and verbal, in English

Wiper:

  • Assists the Engine Department in the maintenance and operation of the main propulsion plant and auxiliary machinery
  • Responsible for general sanitation/cleaning of all engineering spaces, including bilges
  • The wiper will also assist in maintenance of the cargo handling system including:
    1. Greasing
    2. Stenciling
    3. Checking nuts and bolts
    4. Cleaning (coolers, speed reducers, air filters, take-up hydraulic units, etc.)
    5. Inspecting wear plates, scrapers, pulleys
    6. Other duties as organized by the conveyorman
  • Able to work as a “day worker,” living and working seven days a week in a shipboard environment with potentially irregular and prolonged hours. These duties are performed in all weather conditions
  • Respond in accordance with the duties listed on the Station Bill.
  • Employee must understand commands, both written and verbal, in English

Credential, License / Endorsement, and Certificate Requirements:

  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsement as a 'Wiper'
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate
  • Valid U.S. DOT Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Ability to pass a preemployment drug screen and participate in a random testing program