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Entry Level Cargo Ship Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Cargo Ship information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$12

$20

$34

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cargo ship in Baton Rouge, LA is $20.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $23.08 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 Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Cargo Ship jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cargo Ship job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,070 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Bulk Terminal Specialist 1-2-3

State of Louisiana

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$2.9K - $5.3K/mo

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


State Of Louisiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states


Job description

About this Job OUR MISSION TO ACTIVELY CREATE, FACILITATE AND ENHANCE BENEFITS FROM MARITIME TRANSPORTATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR THE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS, STAKEHOLDERS, AND THE CITIZENS OF SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA. The Port of Lake Charles is seeking applicants for the position of Bulk Terminal Specialist for its Bulk Terminal facility in Sulphur. These are full-time state Civil Service positions and include benefits.

Entry level salary is $17.18 per hour; however, this is a training series (career progression group) with an opportunity for advancement over time. Also, previous experience will be taken into consideration when determining hiring level. Duties include loading and unloading commodities/bulk cargo from rail cars, trucks, ships, barges or storage facilities, operating mobile equipment, heavy machinery and providing truck escorts

A valid driver's license and good driving record are preferred. Selected applicant will be required to pass a physical, drug, and alcohol screening. Minimum Qualifications No experience or training is required.

Job Specification The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here. Job Duties and Other Information Job Duties: Prepares for assigned operations using established procedures and planning unless instructed by supervisors to change from standard policy; Understands the purpose and functional use of equipment and takes "ownership" in the assigned task given by supervisors; Demonstrates an understanding for the movement of cargo in the loading and unloading of barges or vessels, including draft readings, vessel terminology and safe operating procedures; Independently, safely and productively operates, following established procedures, at minimum 2 of the following pieces of equipment: both ship loaders (considered to be 1 piece of equipment), unloader, cherry picker, material handler, conveyor systems, bucket elevators, silos and other equipment used in the movement of bulk cargo from truck scale to ship loader; Works around and assists in Port operations that involve conveying bulk cargo and operating mobile equipment, heavy industrial machinery, railcars and rail engine; Works around waterfront; Cleans, washes and shovels, as directed, to prepare Port facilities and equipment for operations that include loading or unloading bulk cargo from or to railcars, trucks or vessels; A valid driver's license, good driving record, valid TWIC, or ability to obtain TWIC are required. Other preferred qualifications include the possession of ASE Certification, CDL, and experience with diesel engine equipment.

Performance of duties for this position requires manual physical labor such as standing, stooping, bending, walking, pushing, pulling, climbing, and lifting 30 pounds or more, working outdoors in all types of weather, and working around the waterfront. Position-Specific Details: Appointment Type: Probational Career Progression: This position participates in a Career Progression Group. Louisiana is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) that supports the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities.

How To Apply: No Civil Service test score is required to be considered for this vacancy. To apply for this vacancy, click on the "Apply" link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities. Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process.

Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page. *Information to support your eligibility for this job title must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections on your application

Applications may be rejected if incomplete. Contact Information: Jo Ellen Elliot Lake Charles Harbor & Terminal District 337-493-3522 jelliott@portlc.com.


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About State of Louisiana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Louisiana, based in Baton Rouge, LA, US, is not a traditional company per se, but a government body that oversees the administration of the state. As revealed on its official website, louisiana.gov, its wide range of services falls within public administration industry, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, environment conservation, and law enforcement. Founded in 1806, the State of Louisiana’s mission is to ensure a high quality of life for its residents by effectively managing public resources, enforcing laws, and fostering economic growth. Its most notable achievements include the successful implementation of its Coastal Master Plan, aimed at conserving Louisiana's extensive coastline, and the dramatic overhaul of its public education system.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1812

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