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Ship Unloader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QUIKRETE Companies

Terminal Operator

Convent, LA · On-site

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

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Ship Unloader information

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$10

$15

$19

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.

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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.
Great Lakes Piloting Mate

Great Lakes Piloting Mate

Grand River Navigation Company

Traverse City, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description:

Come Sail with us on the Great Lakes! If you are looking to sail with us as part of our Deck or Engine teams, safety, efficient operations, a family-oriented environment, one of the best leave and rotation systems on the Great Lakes, unprecedented teamwork and some of the most talented colleagues in the industry are just some of the reasons you will enjoy a career with us!  

Whether you work in Canada or the U.S., a total rewards package is everything you receive as an employee and includes your income, paid travel to/from the vessel, healthcare benefits, retirement savings plans and work/life balance with best in class rotation (4 weeks on, 4 weeks off March through January.) Opportunities education and upgrade bonuses to support career growth at a pace that is right for each individual. Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S. operating subsidiary of Rand Logistics Corporation. Together with our Canadian sister company, Lower Lakes Towing Ltd., we are one of the largest marine transportation service providers operating on the Great Lakes today with a combined fleet of 15 bulk freight vessel is service to over 50 customers across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.  

"We can go where the big ships go and also where they can't!" 

Our Company is searching for qualified candidates for the position of Mate / First Class Pilot aboard our US flagged self-unloading vessels.

Responsibilities

· Safely manning a Navigation Watch

· Supervising the Maintenance and upkeep of the hull, decks and superstructure of the vessel

· Responsible for the safe loading, unloading of cargo

· Ensuring that vessel lifesaving and firefighting equipment is properly maintained 

· Supervising and directing the vessels Deck Department, including the ordering of Deck Supplies

· Other duties assigned by the Vessel Master  


Benefits

  • As an employee you are part of the Rand Logistics family where Teamwork and safety are a core values
  • Highly competitive wages and benefits
  • The best leave system in the industry
  • We pay  for your travel to and from the vessel
  • Excellent Health and Retirement Benefits
  • Excellent safety record
  • Full comprehensive benefits package
  • Upgrade bonus
  • Paid training through MITAGS
  • And more!
Requirements:
  • TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
  • United States Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG)
  • Endorsement as Mate of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes and Inland Waters (minimum)
  • First Class Pilot of Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes between Duluth, Gary, Buffalo and Port Weller to Cape Vincent
  • Unexpired US Passport or Enhanced Driver's License and allowed entry into Canada
  • Legally authorized to work in the US, without restriction
  • Excellent communication and ability to multi-task
  • Experience working as a team and desire to working together as a team player
  • Experience and desires to align to our Values: Creating a Positive Customer Experience, Health/Safety/Environment focused, High Integrity and Teamwork

Grand River Navigation is an Equal Opportunity Employer – All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also comply with Family Medical Leave Act and Employee Rights Employee Polygraph Protection Act. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/legacy/files/fmlaen.pdf, chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/legacy/files/eppac.pdf


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