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Summer Cargo Ship information

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$13

$21

$36

How much do summer cargo ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer cargo ship in the United States is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work hours and conditions for summer positions on cargo ships?

Summer cargo ship roles usually involve working in shifts, as ships often operate around the clock, and overtime may be required during peak shipping periods. Crew members can expect to work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in challenging weather conditions and at sea for extended periods. Living quarters are typically close-knit, and teamwork is essential, as crew members rely on each other to maintain smooth ship operations. While the schedule can be demanding, these positions offer valuable real-world experience and can open doors to more permanent maritime careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Summer Cargo Ship position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a summer cargo ship position, candidates typically need basic seamanship, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with maritime safety protocols, cargo handling equipment, and certifications such as STCW Basic Safety Training are often required. Teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication skills are critical soft skills in this physically demanding, fast-paced environment. These qualifications and attributes ensure safe and efficient cargo operations during the busy summer shipping season.

What is a Summer Cargo Ship job?

A Summer Cargo Ship job typically involves temporary work aboard a cargo vessel during the summer months. Responsibilities vary but may include assisting with loading and unloading cargo, performing basic maintenance, and ensuring the safe transport of goods. These roles are often suited for students or seasonal workers seeking hands-on maritime experience. No prior experience may be required for entry-level positions, though physical fitness and adaptability are important.

What cities are hiring for Summer Cargo Ship jobs? Cities with the most Summer Cargo Ship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cargo Ship jobs? The most popular types of Cargo Ship jobs are:
What states have the most Summer Cargo Ship jobs? States with the most job openings for Summer Cargo Ship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Summer Cargo Ship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Cargo Ship jobs are:
Summer Cargo Ship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Cargo Ship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Second Cook (Steward Assistant) Immediate Opening

Second Cook (Steward Assistant) Immediate Opening

Keystone Shipping Co.

Toledo, OH • On-site

$27.56/hr

Temporary

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Purpose/Summary: The second cook assists in the preparation of meals each day for the crew.
Essential and Major Duties:
  • Supports the preparation and cooking of breakfast, assists with the preparation of lunch and dinner under guide of Steward
  • Prepares salads, vegetables, fruits, and deserts; bakes bread and cookies
  • Receives and properly stores all grocery supplies
  • Inventories and rotates stock (including verification of expiration dates) of all food items in freezers, refrigerators, and dry storage areas

Other Functions:
  • Maintains cleanliness and sanitation of Galley and dining areas
  • Control of vessel linen - storage, vendor cleaning, and issuance to crew
  • Other maintenance and housekeeping tasks as assigned

Required Qualifications:
  • Must hold the following Merchant Mariner Credentials:
    • Ordinary Seaman
    • Wiper
    • Steward's Department Food Handler
  • Must hold a ServSafe certification
  • Must hold a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Must be willing to live 7 days a week in a remote environment with limited access to medical supplies and medical personnel
  • Maintain licenses and qualifications as required by regulation, both current and future
  • Maintain good health in compliance with USCG NVIC 04-08 including US Coast Guard vision and hearing requirements
  • Must have written and verbal command of the English language

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Has at least 1 or more years of culinary background and experience

Physical Requirements:
Will be required to pass the Physical Standard as published in USCG NVIC 04-08. May be required to stand, sit, crouch or lay prone for long periods of time. Will work as necessary in confined or watertight spaces. May have to navigate tripping hazards, uneven and rolling decks, and climb both stairs and ladders. May be required to push, pull, lift, or hoist equipment up to or in excess of 127-157 pounds.
Work Environment:
As expected in the Great Lakes region, incumbent employee will be exposed to seasonal weather including below freezing in the winter to high and humid temperatures in the summer. Incumbent employee may also be exposed to loud sounds and be required to wear and use hearing protection as required. Certain cargo ships may contain salt, silica, coal, and other hazardous dusts that may be inhaled and require the use of a respirator.
Equipment:
Utilizes ovens, grills, and cleaning equipment. May be required to use work-type PFD/life jackets, SCBA/respirators, hard hats and eye protection.
Emergency Functions:
In emergency scenarios, may be required to perform emergency duties to save crew and ship. Responsible to be physically fit enough to perform the following non-extensive list of self-evacuation: use of escape trunks, indoor emergency panels, launch life rafts, close fire doors, firefighting, life safety, including donning self-survival equipment, fall protection, scuba, survival suit, and life jacket as the situation requires. May be required to abandon ship, jump overboard, swim, and row a craft.

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