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Ocean Terminal Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Ocean Terminal information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$71K

$109.5K

How much do ocean terminal jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for ocean terminal in California is $70,969.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $80,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ocean terminal?

Ocean Terminal jobs refer to positions involved in the operation, management, and logistics of ports where ships dock to load and unload cargo or passengers. These roles can include dock workers, crane operators, shipping coordinators, customs officers, and terminal managers. Employees ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods and people, oversee compliance with regulations, and maintain terminal equipment. Ocean Terminal jobs are critical for global trade and often require teamwork, attention to safety protocols, and sometimes specialized training or certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ocean terminal operator?

To thrive as an Ocean Terminal Operator, you need knowledge of cargo handling, logistics operations, and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or specialized vocational training. Proficiency in terminal management systems, radio communication devices, and heavy equipment certifications (such as forklift or crane operation) is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help ensure smooth and safe terminal processes. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining operational efficiency, safety compliance, and effective coordination in a fast-paced port environment.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at an ocean terminal, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals at an ocean terminal often encounter challenges such as managing tight vessel schedules, coordinating with diverse teams (dockworkers, shipping agents, customs), and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as operations can be affected by weather conditions and fluctuating cargo volumes. Proactively staying updated on logistics software and safety protocols helps streamline operations and reduces the risk of delays or accidents, making teamwork and continuous learning essential for success in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Ocean Terminal vs Dockworker?

AspectOcean TerminalDockworker
Required CredentialsTypically includes certifications in cargo handling and safetyOften requires OSHA safety training and physical fitness
Work EnvironmentOperates in port terminals, handling cargo and containersWorks at docks, loading/unloading ships and trucks
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by port authorities and shipping companiesEmployed by shipping lines, port operators, and logistics firms

Both Ocean Terminal workers and Dockworkers operate in port environments, handling cargo and containers. While Ocean Terminal roles often involve managing terminal operations and safety certifications, Dockworkers focus on physically loading and unloading ships. The roles are closely related, with overlapping skills and work settings, but differ mainly in job scope and specific responsibilities.

Ocean Terminal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Terminal job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,969 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Security Guard (Military Ocean Terminal)

ARMY TRANSPORTATION

Concord, CA • On-site, Remote

$56K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Summary
This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: Serves as a Department of the Army Security Guard (DASG) at one of the Army Military Ocean Terminals (MOT) special installations in the Continental United States.
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Duties
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  • Answer visitor questions to assist them with appropriate identification or authorization needed for access.
  • Check identification and vehicles to ensure only authorized personnel are allowed access.
  • Deny access to unauthorized personnel in accordance with standard operating procedures.
  • Record visitor information to identify the purpose of the visit and access permitted.
  • Alert appropriate officials to a potential security violation.
  • Assist police during emergency operations or drills by directing traffic, controlling on-lookers, or taking witness statements.
  • Dispatch personnel and equipment as necessary to respond to an emergency situation.
  • Provide support to emergency service personnel.
  • Conduct foot or vehicle patrol of perimeters or roadways to check for security breaches.
  • Conduct traffic stops as required to control access to an area.
  • Conduct visual surveillance of premises to detect unusual or suspicious activity.
  • Inspect building perimeters to detect faulty doors, fences, or other barriers.
  • Implement enhanced security measures when warranted by events or threats.
  • Conduct waterside security patrols of U.S. Military, non-military, and foreign ships at berth which may contain explosives.
  • Conduct routine patrols to ensure Military Ocean Terminal restricted water is secured at all times.
  • Report all incidents to leadership and law enforcement.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • This position requires the incumbent meet the requirements of Individual Reliability Program in accordance with Army Regulation 190-56 to include passing entry level and annual re-certification of the Physical Agility Test (PAT).
  • Incumbent is required to undergo and pass a complete medical physical, at government facility at government expense and must also undergo this requirement annually.
  • IAW AR 600-85, a DA Form 5019R Condition of Employment must be assigned for mandatory drug testing. This is a drug testing designated position. Individual agrees to submit to a urinalysis on a recurring basis, in accordance with AR 600-85.
  • Rotating Shift work is required, or a change in work shift may be necessary. Hours of work encompass fluctuating tours of duty to include evenings, nights, weekends and holidays.
  • Overtime may be required as directed and is subject to recall for periods of emergency overtime.
  • Incumbent must be proficient in the use of assigned firearms/weapons, pass an initial qualification, and must qualify semi-annually thereafter in the use of assigned firearms/weapons.
  • Incumbent is subject to possible civil actions due to improper exercises of authority or injudicious use of force in the detention of individuals.
  • Must successfully complete Initial and annual in-service security guard training.
  • Must successfully complete cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification, Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and First Aid training.
  • Incumbent may be required to wear chemical protection masks, gloves, and other protective equipment, and may be required to be certified in the use of aerosol irritants and baton.
  • Must pass entry level and annual re-certification of the Physical Agility Test (PAT) IAW AR 190-56.
  • Incumbent must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
  • Must wear prescribed uniform.
  • Must participate in regularly scheduled training in the techniques of use of deadly force, anti-/counter-terrorism, first aid, firearms, search and seizure, security operations and enforcement of installation rules, regulations, and policies.
  • This is a mission essential position with varying hours and work schedules-you will be expected to report to or remain at your worksite during dismissal or closure situations.
  • This position is covered by the 1996 Lautenberg amendment to the gun control act of 1968. Persons convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence are not eligible for this position.
  • Complete all required State-provided National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS) training.
  • Successfully pass the State's certification test required from the state Criminal Justice Information Service (CJIS) security official (if required by the State).
  • See "Additional Information" section for Condition of Employment continued...

Qualifications
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes 1) experience working with a Federal, State, municipal, local or private protective organization that involved the protection of property against such hazards as fire, theft, damage, accident, or trespass; or 2) maintaining order and protecting life; such as the following: enforce security rules and regulations; escort persons or vehicles; verity the identification of an individual entering controlled areas; perform security patrols to identify potential hazards; perform traffic control; control the access of personnel or vehicles to property/installation; monitor various alarm systems; respond to security incidents. Such experience must have provided a knowledge of protective systems and techniques. Acceptable experience includes service in the Armed Services or Coast Guard that involved the performance of guard duties on a regular or intermittent basis. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-05).
Education
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone no substitution of education for experience is permitted.
Additional information
Conditions of Employment continued...
  • Heavy Lift - 35lbs
  • Good eye/hand coordination is required to operate radios and security weapons and equipment. Must be in sufficient physical condition to conduct assist in searching vehicles and persons and restraining persons. Infrequently lifts persons involved in accidents/incidents; uses unarmed combat techniques for self-defense to subdue persons.
  • Must be willing to obtain and retain one or more of the following U.S. Coast Guard licenses: Small Boat Captains Operator of -Un-Inspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV) License, U.S. Army Marine Certification IAW Chapter 5, AR 56-9, or a Military Ocean Terminal Harbor Patrol Coxswain appointment within a year of being appointed to this position. Failure to meet this requirements could lead to disciplinary actions.
  • Within the first 2 years, HP crew members, must complete a swim assessment, National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) courses- Basic Crew Member, Boat Search and Rescue and Tactical Operator, Boat safety course, additional Maritime training courses, and MOT personnel qualification standard. Failure to compete the training requirements could lead to disciplinary actions.
  • Temporary duty (TDY) is required less than 10% of the time.
  • Works both inside and outside with possible exposure to inclement weather.
  • Must maintain certification on law enforcement systems.
  • This position is designated Tier 3, Non-Critical Sensitive, Moderate Risk and requires the incumbent to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance Level as a condition of employment.
  • Appointment to this position is subject to a one year probationary period unless the appointee has previously met the requirements as described in 5 CFR Part 11. While probationary the incumbent can be terminated with limited appeal rights.

Additional Information:
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • This position requires a 1 year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In making this determination, the agency may consider your performance and conduct; agency needs and interests; whether your continued employment supports organizational or Government goals; and whether it promotes the efficiency of the Federal service. Continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • This is a 19-Physical Security and Law Enforcement Career Field position.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized, based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government interest.
  • Incentives may be authorized.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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