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Entry Level Cargo Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Cargo Ship information

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$13

$21

$36

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 the United States is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.04 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.

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

Entry level cargo ship positions often require minimal prior experience, but applicants typically need a valid maritime certification such as STCW Basic Safety Training. Employers may also look for physical fitness, the ability to work in a team, and willingness to learn safety procedures. Training is usually provided on the job or through maritime academies.

How much do entry level cargo ship workers get paid?

Entry-level cargo ship workers typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on the company, location, and specific role. Salaries can increase with experience, certifications, and additional responsibilities such as safety training or specialized skills.
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What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Cargo Ship job openings:

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

The most popular types of Cargo Ship jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cargo Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Warehouse Operators *No Experience Required*

U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion

Indianapolis, IN

$12.50 - $26.92/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

**THIS JOB REQUIRES ENLISTING/JOINING THE U.S. ARMY**

This is an entry level position with no experience necessary. When you enlist into the Army as a Warehouse Operator, you become a part of a team of Soldiers. As a Soldier you secure your future with a career in the Active Duty Army (full-time) and are able to take advantage of all the benefits that serving in the Army gives you. You gain leadership skills, college credit, and job-security by enlisting into the Army that is hard to find in the civilian sector. 

Job Duties:

 

  • Inspect, count and document cargo utilizing both manual and automated data processing systems
  • Load and unload supplies and equipment from ships, docks, beaches, railheads, boxcars, warehouses, motor vehicles and aircraft
  • Operate and maintain all types and sizes of winches, cranes and forklifts
  • Create load plans for air shipment and ocean liner vessels
  • Operate ocean liner vessel equipment
  • Attend Basic and Advanced Training (paid)

Basic Qualifications:

  • Age - 17 to 34 years old
  • Education - Current Senior in High School(HS), HS Diploma, GED, GED equivalent, or higher education level completed
  • Citizenship - U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident
  • Submit to background and medical screening
  • Receive a passing score on the ASVAB

Benefits:

  • Enlistment bonus up to $40,000, varies by job and individual qualifications
  • Education benefits
    • Tuition Assistance ($4,000 annually) / GI Bill (up to $108,000 for 36 months of attending college)
  • Paid training (Basic and Advanced)
  • 30 days of paid vacation earned every year
  • Additional living expenses for those who have dependents
  • Various lengths of contracts available from 2 years to 6 years normally
  • Additional pay allowances based on additional qualifications

This is a position in the Army Reserves. In order to qualify you must meet the minimum requirements to enlist in the United States Army. 

These include, but are not limited to:

Age between 17-34 years old
Ability to pass an extensive background check with no significant law charges (waivers are authorized on a case-by-case basis)
Ability to pass an extensive medical exam including full panel drug testing to ensure fitness to enlist in the military and attend basic training
Attaining qualifying test scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test (ASVAB)

Required qualifications:
  • 17 years or older
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Background check
  • Drug screening
  • Reads English
  • Speaks English
  • At least high school diploma or equivalent or higher