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Entry Level Cargo Ship Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Cargo Ship information

See Ohio salary details

$12

$20

$34

How much do entry level cargo ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cargo ship in Ohio is $20.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level cargo ship?

An entry-level cargo ship job involves working on a commercial vessel, assisting with loading and unloading cargo, maintenance, and general ship operations. Common positions include deckhands, wipers, and ordinary seamen, requiring physical labor and long shifts at sea. No prior experience is typically needed, but applicants must meet basic maritime safety requirements and obtain necessary certifications. This role provides valuable experience for advancing in the maritime industry.

What does an entry level cargo ship do?

Entry-level crew members on cargo ships are usually responsible for tasks such as assisting with loading and securing cargo, performing routine maintenance, cleaning, and participating in safety drills. You may also be assigned to watch duties, monitoring the ship and reporting any issues to senior crew members. Expect to work in a team-based environment, often in rotating shifts, and follow strict safety protocols at all times. These roles provide valuable on-the-job training and can be a stepping stone to more specialized maritime positions with continued experience and certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level cargo ship position?

To thrive in an entry-level cargo ship position, you typically need a high school diploma, physical fitness, and basic maritime knowledge. Familiarity with safety procedures, cargo handling equipment, and basic navigation or watchkeeping certifications like STCW are often required. Teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals adapt to the unique environment at sea. These skills are essential to ensure onboard safety, efficient cargo operations, and smooth coordination with the crew.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cargo Ship jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Cargo Ship jobs in Ohio are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs in Ohio?

For Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs in Ohio are:

Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cargo Ship job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,652 per year, or $20 per hour.

Entry-Level Engineering - Wiper/Conveyorman

Interlake Steamship Company

Middleburg Heights, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 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

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