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Port Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Port Captain

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

GENERAL POSITION OVERVIEW The Port Captain position has regional responsibilities for efficient and ... and working plan is in place and understood by all. Additional responsibilities are managing ...

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As a Port Engineer , you'll play a key role in ensuring our boats meet United States Coast Guard ... Working with vendors to schedule and coordinate maintenance and repairs within required or ...

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The Port Engineer will work hand in hand with Engineering Manager and collaborate with team to meet ... working aboard boats and barges using heavy lines, winches, and mechanical tools for repairs ...

Port Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$120K/yr

The Port Engineer will work hand in hand with Engineering Manager and collaborate with team to meet ... working aboard boats and barges using heavy lines, winches, and mechanical tools for repairs โ€ข ...

Port Maintenance Leader The Port of Oakland is currently recruiting for the position of Port ... Acts as working lead person participating in routine and emergency construction, maintenance and ...

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PORT MAINTENANCE LEADER

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$10K - $12K/mo

The Port of Oakland is currently recruiting for the position of Port Maintenance Leader. There are ... Acts as working lead person participating in routine and emergency construction, maintenance and ...

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Port Engineer

New York, NY ยท On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

The Port Engineer will play a key role in planning and executing maintenance projects, supervising ... Physically capable of boarding vessels, climbing ladders, and working in marine environments. Work ...

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Port Engineer - Westwego, LAThis is a full-time, exempt level position.Position Summary:ADM is ... Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying ...

Port Engineer

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

Benefits you receive when working with Savage: * A culture that appreciates team members * Profit ... Prior port engineering or closely related experience is strongly preferred * Marine Engineering ...

Port Engineer Location: San Francisco, CA Salary: $130k - $160k DOE Incentives: $5,000 sign-on ... Responsible for the coordination and management of all shifts, working directly with the Lead ...

Port Engineer Location: San Francisco, CA Salary: $130k - $160k DOE Incentives: $5,000 sign-on ... Responsible for the coordination and management of all shifts, working directly with the Lead ...

Port Engineer Location: San Francisco, CA Salary: $130k - $160k DOE Incentives: $5,000 sign-on ... Responsible for the coordination and management of all shifts, working directly with the Lead ...

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Port Worker information

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How much do port worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for port worker in the United States is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are port workers?

Port workers, also known as dockworkers or stevedores, are responsible for loading and unloading cargo from ships at ports and harbors. They operate heavy machinery such as cranes and forklifts, handle and secure cargo, and ensure that goods are safely transferred between ships and land transport. Port workers play a crucial role in the logistics and supply chain industry, helping to facilitate global trade by moving goods efficiently and safely. Their work often involves physical labor and adherence to strict safety regulations.

What qualifications do you need to work in a port?

Port workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require safety training or certifications such as OSHA. Physical fitness, the ability to operate equipment, and good communication skills are also important. Some positions may require specific licenses or training depending on the role and employer.

What is the difference between Port Worker vs Dock Worker?

AspectPort WorkerDock Worker
CredentialsMay require safety certifications, OSHA trainingOften requires similar safety training, certifications vary by employer
Work EnvironmentPort facilities, cargo terminals, container yardsDockside areas, loading/unloading zones at ports
Industry UsageCommonly used in shipping, logistics, maritime industriesPrimarily in shipping, freight handling, maritime sectors
Job DutiesAssisting with cargo movement, operating equipment, safety protocolsLoading/unloading ships, securing cargo, handling containers

Port Workers and Dock Workers often perform similar roles in port environments, focusing on cargo handling and safety. While their duties overlap, Port Workers may have broader responsibilities across port facilities, whereas Dock Workers typically focus on direct ship loading and unloading tasks.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Port workers, such as longshoremen or cargo handlers, can earn around $4,000 weekly with experience and union membership, especially in high-demand ports. These roles often require physical stamina, safety training, and sometimes certifications but typically do not require a college degree. Earnings depend on location, hours worked, and union agreements.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Port workers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized surgeons, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business. Most port workers earn a median salary well below this threshold, with top earners in logistics or management positions reaching higher income levels.

What are the main challenges Port Workers face during peak shipping seasons?

During peak shipping seasons, Port Workers often experience increased workloads due to higher cargo volumes and tighter deadlines. This period can involve longer shifts, working in various weather conditions, and coordinating closely with team members to ensure efficiency and safety. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as changes in schedules or shipments can occur with little notice. Despite these challenges, many ports offer additional support measures, such as overtime pay and enhanced safety protocols, to help workers manage the demands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Port Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Port Worker, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cargo handling equipment, forklifts, cranes, and adherence to safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals excel in this fast-paced environment. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient, safe loading and unloading operations, minimizing accidents and maintaining smooth port activities.

What port jobs pay the most?

Port jobs that typically pay the most include crane operators, logistics managers, and terminal managers, often requiring specialized skills and certifications. These roles involve overseeing cargo handling, operations, and safety, and tend to offer higher salaries due to their responsibility levels and technical requirements.
More about Port Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Port Worker jobs? Cities with the most Port Worker job openings:
What states have the most Port Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Port Worker jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Port Worker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Port Worker jobs are:
Infographic showing various Port Worker job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,955 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Port Captain

HMM America Inc.

Oakland, CA โ€ข On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

GENERAL POSITION OVERVIEW

The Port Captain position has regional responsibilities for efficient and cost-effective terminal and vessel operations within the assigned regionโ€™s ports and marine terminals. Responsibilities include representing HMM with alliance members, lines, stevedores, vendors and ports to ensure smooth operations and fair treatment. Coordinate with vessel planners, agents, stevedores, terminals and vessels to ensure a cohesive vessel schedule and working plan is in place and understood by all. Additional responsibilities are managing boarding agents, vessel schedules and slot sharing agreements for the assigned region.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/DUTIES
  • Act as liaison between HASA Operations and terminal management.
  • Ensure that terminals / stevedores / reefer vendors are aware of changes to vessel rotation, phase in/out.
  • Review terminal billing for marine operations and verify accuracy (volume, rate, application of contract) for all vessel calls that carry HMM cargo.
  • Manage marine expenses in the region; provide first verification of invoices from marine vendors within the assigned region while focusing on cost reduction.
  • Work with AHQ Vessel Planner to ensure that operations of all HMM vessels are planned in a safe, economical, and timely manner, including vessel stowage and labor orders.
  • Monitor vessel operations for all Alliance vessel calls and work with AHQ Marine Ops to adjust as necessary to meet port call objectives.
  • Input arrival / departure times and TDR information (i.e. discharge figures, restows by line) for vessel calls.
  • Participate in developing strategy for negotiating competitive agreements with marine vendors, terminals and ports.
  • Estimate costs of loading / discharge for sales leads for all out-of-gauge and break-bulk cargo.
  • Work closely with member lines through Alliance (LOC or other) structure to develop tactical solutions and ensure smooth operations
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Additional Duties
  • Review partner line vessels activities for abnormalities to reduce service disruption and extra cost.
  • Review terminal performance compared to terminal contract to identify unnecessary costs and opportunities to improve
  • Schedule and attend LOC meetings in each port with partner lines on quarterly basis - continue to foster good communication between lines.
  • Report to HMM ROC member any findings that might be useful in ROC discussions.
  • Organize any break bulk operation including scheduling lashing and stowage survey.
  • Act as liaison for AHQ or Regional service center regarding equipment control, M&R, Hazardous, and Space Management etc.
  • Provide scheduled and adhoc reports as necessary.
  • Preview vessel prestow sent by AHQ Planner (review crane splits, haz, etc.) as necessary.
Region Specific Duties
  • Coordinate vessel calls with local agents to ensure that items requested (i.e. bunkers, lubes, stores, cash, and other services) are provided as needed.
  • Review master schedule for booking of vessels for Panama Canal. Keep close contact with booking agent to book vessels as needed.
QUALIFICATIONSESSENTIAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES
  • Extensive knowledge of container, vessel and terminal operations.
  • Advanced ability to self-manage and achieve objectives.
  • Maintain a continual improvement and positive change attitude.
  • Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • High School diploma or GED required; Maritime Academy degree preferred.
  • At least 5 years of marine operations experience, including vessel planning.
ENVIRONMENT / EQUIPMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Work performed in an office environment where the noise level is moderate. Regularly required to stand, sit, and walk around the office. Frequently required to work on a computer.
  • Capable to climb steep gangway/stairs for boarding vessels while wearing personal protective gear (hardhat, safety boots, safety glasses, vest).
  • Ability to maintain focus over long, non-standard hours of work and be on call 24x7.


Join HMM and navigate the future of shipping and logistics, where youโ€™ll grow alongside an industry leader committed to sustainability, innovation, and excellence.

About HMM America Shipping Agency:
HMM is a leading global shipping company operating over 130 state-of-the-art vessels encompassing more than 50 sea routes to over 100 ports of call. HMM strategically collaborates with customers to develop customized supply chain solutions for dry, refrigerated, and other specialized cargo.

HMM is currently ranked in the Top 8 global ocean carriers in terms of service network and market capacity. HMM has formed a global business network of vessels, terminals, railroads, trucks, and offices around the world. HMM is highly regarded as one of the world's top integrated logistics companies with a commitment to operational excellence by our team of industry professionals and state-of-the-art technology.

Additional Details:

The pay range listed for this position is the anticipated starting salary or wage range, and the final offered rate will be based on individual merit and the relative compensation of employees in similar positions. HMM employee benefits include highly subsidized individual and family insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), term life and disability insurance, 401(k) employer matching contributions, paid holidays, and up to 10 vacation days and six sick days in the first year.

HMM provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or other legally protected characteristics. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with legal requirements. HMM participates in the E-Verify program.