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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. We Require: * A minimum of 1-year of industrial, mechanical, or manufacturing ...

Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope

Loader/Unloader 2

York, PA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Responsible for fabrication of wooden crates to ship, job clean ups, small jobs parts and orders * Loads windows and accessories * Ensure that product is packaged safely within the crate to minimize ...

Michaels Stores, Inc.

Part Time Unloader

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $16.25/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 ...

Wrist Ship Supply

Be Seen First

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 ...

New

Michaels Stores

Morning Stocker/Unloader

Fairlawn, OH

$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 ...

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

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 ...

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Ship Unloader information

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How much do ship unloader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 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
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Ship Unloader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Unloader job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Full Time, and 89% Part Time. Highlights an 30% Physical, and 70% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,139 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Terminal Operator

Terminal Operator

Summit Materials

Convent, LA • On-site

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Summit Materials rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Terminal Operator

We are looking for a Terminal Operator to join our Convent, Louisiana location. As a Terminal Operator with Quikrete Heavy Construction Materials you will oversee product receipt, storage, and shipment, while coordinating logistics with internal teams, customers, and transportation partners.

Responsibilities:

  • Perform maintenance on equipment.
  • Operate mobile equipment, front-end loader, telehandler, hi reach, vacuum truck, skid steer, wheel loader, crane, etc.
  • Operate screw and pneumatics ship unloaders.
  • Perform maintenance on equipment.
  • Load trucks via control system.

We Require:

  • A minimum of 1–year of industrial, mechanical, or manufacturing experience.
  • Electrical experience a plus.
  • Experience inspecting and performing basic repairs on equipment.
  • Logistics or inventory management experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a valid TWIC card.

About Us

Each day brings new challenges, and we make sure you are prepared for it all. Our dedication to continual improvement and hands-on training ensures you are ready for the many new experiences and challenges that you will face.

We offer:

  • A friendly and team-oriented work environment, with a supportive management team.
  • Hands-on training for our employees and opportunities for advancement.

Ready to Apply?

  • Join a team where your communication and coordination skills make a daily impact. Apply today by clicking "Apply Now."

QUIKRETE® is an equal opportunity employer committed to developing a workforce with well-qualified individuals without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, citizenship status, status with regard to public assistance or any other characteristic/status protected by law. QUIKRETE® is a drug-free workplace and conducts pre-employment testing as a condition of employment. If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact the QUIKRETE® Recruiting team at accommodationsforhiring@quikrete.com.

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