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Ship Unloader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

SEEL

Inventory Specialist

Detroit, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... and ship customized energy efficiency kits to Utility customers who receive a virtual energy assessment. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Assist in the loading/unloading of warehouse products using a ...

COLSON GROUP HOLDINGS, LLC

Material Handler

Saint Joseph, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Essential Job Functions • Retrieve finished goods to be shipped from the assembly area and ship ... Loading and Unloading Semi Trailers. Requirements Physical Requirements • Employees are required ...

Colson Group

2nd shift Material Handler

Saint Joseph, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Retrieve finished goods to be shipped from the assembly area and ship using proper systems and ... Loading and Unloading Semi Trailers. Physical Requirements * Employees are required to walk long ...

Express Employment

Material Handler

Norton Shores, MI · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Prepare, package, and ship finished products * Perform inventory and warehouse organization duties ... Loading and unloading trailers * Warehouse inventory management * Dock operations Benefits

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All JobsShip Unloader JobsShip Unloader Jobs in Michigan

Ship Unloader information

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$8

$13

$16

How much do ship unloader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship unloader in Michigan is $13.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ship unloader?

Ship unloaders are specialized machines or equipment used at ports and terminals to efficiently remove bulk materials, such as coal, grain, ore, or other cargo, from ships. They are critical for speeding up the unloading process and minimizing labor costs. Ship unloaders can be of various types, including grab-type and continuous-type unloaders, each suited to different kinds of cargo. Operators of these machines must be skilled in safely handling heavy equipment and following safety protocols to prevent accidents. Ship unloaders play a key role in the supply chain by ensuring cargo is transferred swiftly from ship to shore.

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

To thrive as a Ship Unloader, you need physical stamina, attention to safety procedures, and basic knowledge of cargo handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as cranes, forklifts, and conveyor systems, as well as relevant safety certifications, is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help individuals excel in coordinating with crew and addressing unexpected challenges. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and timely unloading operations in a demanding port environment.

What are some common challenges faced by ship unloaders, and how are they usually addressed on the job?

Ship Unloaders often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling heavy or hazardous cargo, and maintaining safety protocols on busy docks. To address these, employers provide thorough safety training, proper protective equipment, and enforce strict adherence to operational procedures. Teamwork and clear communication with crane operators and logistics staff are also essential to ensure efficient and safe unloading. Regular maintenance of equipment and ongoing safety briefings help mitigate risks and maintain smooth operations.

What is the difference between Ship Unloader vs Crane Operator?

AspectShip UnloaderCrane Operator
Primary RoleManually or mechanically unloads cargo from shipsOperates cranes to lift and move materials
Work EnvironmentPort terminals, docks, shipsConstruction sites, ports, industrial facilities
CredentialsBasic safety training, sometimes certifications for equipmentCrane operation certification, safety training
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, port operationsConstruction, shipping, industrial sectors

While both roles are essential in port and shipping industries, a Ship Unloader focuses on physically or mechanically removing cargo from ships, often working directly at docks. A Crane Operator, on the other hand, operates cranes to lift and move heavy materials, which may include cargo but also extends to other lifting tasks. Both roles require safety training and are vital for efficient port operations, but they differ in specific responsibilities and equipment used.

What are popular job titles related to Ship Unloader jobs in Michigan?

For Ship Unloader jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ship Unloader jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Ship Unloader jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Ship Unloader jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Ship Unloader job openings:

Ship Unloader jobs near you

Shipping & Receiving Coordinator

Rhino Tool House

Livonia, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: Shipping and receiving of large machinery and material handling equipment by forklift. Receiving inspection of parts, components and assemblies. Maintaining stock inventories and issuing stock and inventory items to shop floor employees. Manage part stock and specialty component inventory.

Essential functions: 

  1. Building elevated or custom pallets/skids for finish product from wood for daily shipments, as needed.
  2. Shipping large material handling equipment and components with forklifts, by loading/unloading included and flatbed trailers for inbound/outbound shipments
  3. Maintain part component orders and inventory stock items to pull for shop floor or to ship to vendors for builds, including fasteners and fittings  
  4. General knowledge of fabrication prints (build drawings)
  5. General housekeeping of work area
  6. Clean finished goods for shipping

 

Additional activities: 

  1. Transport steel and assemblies using forklifts and overhead cranes
  2. Clean components for painting, as needed
  3. Receiving inspection of parts and assemblies, as needed. (PO vs packing list)

Job Qualifications: 

  1. MUST have forklift experience loading and unloading large machinery
  2. MUST have basic math skills to perform calculations for wood-building and quality checks
  3. Knowledge of manufacturing standards, regulations and inventory control experience
  4. Strong mechanical skills with use of power tools (Magnetic drill, taps, drills, hand grinders, tape measure, etc.) 
  5. Hand tool use (hammer, nail gun, and wood saw)
  6. Flexible work schedule and ability to work overtime when requested