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Ship Unloader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summit Materials

Terminal Operator

Convent, LA · On-site

Operate screw and pneumatics ship unloaders. * Perform maintenance on equipment. * Load trucks via control system. About You We Require: * A minimum of 1-year of industrial, mechanical, or ...

Wrist Ship Supply

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Warehouse Assistant

New Providence, NJ · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

The Warehouse Assistant is responsible for receiving, inputting, sorting, loading and unloading ... Process, package and ship orders accurately * Organize stocks and maintain inventory * Examine ...

Wrist Ship Supply

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Warehouse Assistant

Seattle, WA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

The Warehouse Assistant is responsible for receiving, inputting, sorting, loading and unloading ... Process, package and ship orders accurately * Organize stocks and maintain inventory * Examine ...

Michaels Stores

Truck Unloader/Stocker

Fremont, CA

$17.75 - $20.90/hr

... and Ship From Store (SFS) * Participate in the truck unload, stocking, and planogram (POGs ... unloading trucks; Frame shop contains glass cutter and heat press; work hours include nights ...

Michaels Stores

4am truck unloader

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.10/hr

... and Ship From Store (SFS) * Participate in the truck unload, stocking, and planogram (POGs ... unloading trucks; Frame shop contains glass cutter and heat press; work hours include nights ...

Michaels Stores, Inc.

4am truck unloader

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.10/hr

... and Ship From Store (SFS) * Participate in the truck unload, stocking, and planogram (POGs ... unloading trucks; Frame shop contains glass cutter and heat press; work hours include nights ...

Michaels Stores, Inc.

Truck Unloader/Stocker

Fremont, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.90/hr

... and Ship From Store (SFS) * Participate in the truck unload, stocking, and planogram (POGs ... unloading trucks; Frame shop contains glass cutter and heat press; work hours include nights ...

Michaels Stores

Morning Stocker/Unloader

Fairlawn, OH · On-site

$11 - $13/hr

... and Ship From Store (SFS) * Participate in the truck unload, stocking, and planogram (POGs ... unloading trucks; Frame shop contains glass cutter and heat press; work hours include nights ...

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All JobsShip Unloader Jobs

Ship Unloader information

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$10

$15

$19

How much do ship unloader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship unloader in the United States is $15.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Ship unloaders can earn around $4,000 per week through overtime, union wages, or high-volume ports, especially with experience and specialized skills. Other high-paying roles without a degree include commercial pilots, certain sales managers, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers, which may require certifications but not necessarily a college degree. These jobs often involve physically demanding work, shift work, or specialized training.

How much do cargo ship unloaders make?

Cargo ship unloaders typically earn an average hourly wage between $15 and $25, depending on experience, location, and union membership. They often work in port environments requiring physical strength and the operation of heavy equipment like cranes and forklifts.

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 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.

Can I work on a ship with no experience?

Ship unloaders typically do not require prior experience, as training is often provided on the job. Basic physical fitness and the ability to follow safety procedures are important, and some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification in safety or equipment operation can be beneficial but is usually obtained after employment begins.

What are ship unloaders?

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 is a ship unloader?

A ship unloader is a worker or equipment responsible for removing cargo, such as bulk materials or containers, from ships at ports. The job often involves operating heavy machinery like cranes or conveyor systems and requires safety training and physical stamina. Ship unloaders help ensure efficient cargo transfer and port 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.

More about Ship Unloader jobs
What cities are hiring for Ship Unloader jobs? Cities with the most Ship Unloader job openings:
What states have the most Ship Unloader jobs? States with the most job openings for Ship Unloader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ship Unloader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Unloader jobs are:
Ship Unloader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Unloader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,139 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
PT Unloader Tuesday 12am/3am Truck $14/HR

PT Unloader Tuesday 12am/3am Truck $14/HR

Michaels Stores

Sarasota, FL

$14/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Michaels rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 945 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

646th of 728 rated retailers

Job description

Store - SARASOTA, FLDeliver friendly customer service, help customers shop our store, and find what they're looking for. Ensure all customers receive a fast and friendly checkout experience. Complete truck unloading and merchandise duties throughout the store including maintaining store recovery standards to deliver our Brand Promises.
  • Help customers shop, locate products, and provide them with solutions
  • Provide a fast and friendly checkout experience; execute cash handling to standards
  • Engage customers on the benefits of the Rewards program and Private Label Credit Cards and complete enrollments
  • Educate customers on the Voice of Customer (VOC) survey
  • Assist with Omni channel processes, including Buy Online Pickup in Store (BOPIS) and Ship From Store (SFS)
  • Participate in the truck unload, stocking, and planogram (POGs) processes
  • Responsible to complete merchandise recovery and maintenance including the merchandise return / go back process and general store recovery to ensure a well-merchandised and in-stock store
  • Perform Store In Stock Optimization (SISO) and AD set duties as assigned
  • Support shrink and safety programs
  • Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements; execute Company policies and standards
  • Interact with others in an accepting and respectful manner; remain positive and respectful, even in difficult situations; promote commitment to the organization's vision and values; project a positive image and serve as a role model for other Team Members
  • Cross trained in Custom Framing selling and production

Other duties as assigned

Preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Preferred Type of experience the job requires

  • Retail and/or customer service experience preferred

Physical Requirements

Work Environment

  • Ability to remain standing for long periods of time
  • Ability to move throughout the store
  • Regular bending, lifting, carrying, reaching, and stretching
  • Lifting heavy boxes and accessing high shelves by ladder or similar equipment
  • If you need help performing these essential functions of your job, please contact your supervisor so that we may engage in the interactive process with you to determine if a reasonable accommodation is available.
  • Public retail store setting taking care of our customers; all public areas are climate controlled; some stock rooms may not be climate controlled; some outdoor work if assigned to retrieve shopping carts or while unloading trucks; Frame shop contains glass cutter and heat press; work hours include nights, weekends and early mornings

Applicants in the U.S. must satisfy federal, state, and local legal requirements of the job.

Michaels requires all team members in this role to be at least sixteen (16) years or older.

At The Michaels Companies Inc., our purpose is to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration. As the leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America, we operate over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada and online at Michaels.comandMichaels.ca.The Michaels Companies, Inc. also owns Artistree, a manufacturer of custom and specialty framing merchandise. Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels is the best place for all things creative. For more information, please visitwww.michaels.com.

At Michaels, we prioritize the wellbeing of our teams by providing robust benefits for both full-time and part-time Team Members. Our benefits include health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), paid time off, tuition assistance, generous employee discounts, and much more. For more information, visit www.michaels.com.

Michaels is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are here for all Team Members and all customers to create, innovate and be better together.

Michaels is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with this commitment, Michaels will assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if a reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the job, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Customer Care at 1-800-642-4235 (1800-MICHAEL).

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Employment Type: PART_TIME

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