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Freight Boat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Alaska

Boat Officer 2 (12-1921)

Juneau, AK

$32.90/hr

The Boat Officer 2 may serve as captain of State of Alaska vessels 28 to 42 feet overall. OUR ... S Coast Guard of experience and qualification for carrying passengers or freight. U.S. Coast Guard ...

State of Alaska

Boat Officer 2 (12-1921)

Juneau, AK · On-site

$32.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Boat Officer 2 may serve as captain of State of Alaska vessels 28 to 42 feet overall. OUR ... Coast Guard of experience and qualification for carrying passengers or freight. U.S. Coast Guard ...

asrcfh

Ordinary Seaman

Orient, NY · On-site

Ensure safe transport of passengers and freight. * Assist vessel captain in navigation and boat handling. * Support operation of marine vessels in the transport of passengers, freight, cargo and ...

asrcfh

Ordinary Seaman

Orient, NY · On-site

Ensure safe transport of passengers and freight. * Assist vessel captain in navigation and boat handling. * Support operation of marine vessels in the transport of passengers, freight, cargo and ...

asrcfh

Ordinary Seaman

Orient, NY · On-site

$28.37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... freight. • Assist vessel captain in navigation and boat handling. • Support operation of marine vessels in the transport of passengers, freight, cargo and livestock. • Perform maintenance ...

asrcfh

Ordinary Seaman

Orient, NY · On-site

$28.37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... freight. • Assist vessel captain in navigation and boat handling. • Support operation of marine vessels in the transport of passengers, freight, cargo and livestock. • Perform maintenance ...

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All JobsTransportation and Storage JobsFreight Boat Jobs

Freight Boat information

See salary details

$25.5K

$66.7K

$117K

How much do freight boat jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight boat in the United States is $66,677.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freight boat?

Freight boats, also known as cargo ships or freighters, are vessels specifically designed to transport goods and materials across bodies of water. They play a crucial role in international trade by moving products such as raw materials, finished goods, and machinery between ports around the world. Freight boats come in various types, including container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, each tailored for specific kinds of cargo. Their efficient operation is essential for global supply chains and economies.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a freight boat captain?

To thrive as a Freight Boat Captain, you need a valid captain’s license (such as a Merchant Mariner Credential), strong navigational skills, and comprehensive knowledge of maritime regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, radar, radio communication equipment, and cargo management software is typically required. Effective leadership, decision-making under pressure, and clear communication are essential soft skills for managing crew and ensuring safe operations. These skills are vital for ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely transport of goods across waterways while complying with legal and safety standards.

What are common challenges faced by crew members on a freight boat, and how can they prepare for them?

Crew members on freight boats often face challenges such as long periods away from home, adapting to rotating shifts, and working in varying weather conditions. Teamwork is essential, as crew members must communicate effectively and support each other to ensure safe navigation and efficient cargo handling. Preparing for these challenges involves building strong interpersonal skills, maintaining good physical fitness, and familiarizing oneself with maritime safety protocols. Additionally, staying adaptable and proactive helps crew members manage the unpredictable nature of life at sea.

What is the difference between Freight Boat vs Cargo Ship?

AspectFreight BoatCargo Ship
CredentialsMaritime licenses, STCW certificationMaritime licenses, STCW certification
Work EnvironmentCoastal waters, inland waterwaysOpen seas, international routes
Industry UsageRegional freight, short-distance transportGlobal freight, long-distance shipping

Freight boats are typically smaller vessels used for regional or inland waterway freight transport, requiring similar certifications as cargo ships but operating in different environments. Cargo ships are larger vessels designed for international shipping across open seas. While both roles involve freight transport, freight boats focus on short-distance, regional routes, whereas cargo ships handle long-distance, global routes.

How to get a job on a freight boat?

To get a job on a freight boat, candidates typically need a valid maritime license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential, relevant experience, and safety training. Applying through shipping companies, crewing agencies, or maritime job boards is common, and physical fitness and the ability to work in a marine environment are essential. Certifications like STCW may also be required depending on the vessel and position.
More about Freight Boat jobs

What states have the most Freight Boat jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freight Boat jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freight Boat jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freight Boat jobs are:

Freight Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Boat job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $66,677 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

CDL A Boat Transport Driver

Palmetto Yacht Management

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

CDL-A Driver – Boat Transport

Get Paid Well. Travel The Coast. Drive Something Different.

Tired of hauling the same freight every week?

At Palmetto Yacht Management, our drivers transport high-end boats throughout the East Coast using late-model Ram 5500 trucks and custom marine trailers.

This is not your average CDL driving job. Every trip is different, the equipment is unique, and the destinations range from marinas to major boat dealerships and shipyards.

Why Drivers Like Working Here

Competitive Pay Regional Routes Unique Equipment & Loads No Two Days Are The Same Supportive Dispatch & Operations Team Flexible Scheduling Opportunities Opportunity For Advancement Work Around Some Of The Most Impressive Boats In The Industry

What You'll Be Doing

Transporting boats safely and professionally Operating Ram 5500 trucks with custom marine trailers Planning routes and managing schedules Communicating with marinas, customers, and dispatch Following DOT and company safety standards Representing the company professionally at every stop

What We're Looking For

CDL-A driving experience Professional attitude and strong communication Dependable and safety-minded drivers Ability to adapt to changing schedules Comfortable with overnight travel Drivers who take pride in their work and equipment

Veterans are encouraged to apply.

Schedule

This is a regional travel-based position. Trips can include nights and weekends depending on scheduling and customer demand. Full-Time & Part-Time Weekend Positions Available

Interested? Send us your resume and driving experience to learn more about joining the team.

Apply