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Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship information

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$13

$21

$36

How much do summer entry level cargo ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer entry level 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 is the difference between Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship vs Summer Entry Level Marine Deckhand?

AspectSummer Entry Level Cargo ShipSummer Entry Level Marine Deckhand
Required CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Basic Seaman's LicenseSTCW Basic Safety Training, Basic Seaman's License
Work EnvironmentOn cargo ships transporting goods globallyOn various vessels performing deck duties
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, freight carriersMaritime companies, shipping lines
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship and Summer Entry Level Marine Deckhand roles share similar certifications and work environments, both involving safety training and maritime settings. The cargo ship role focuses on transporting goods across oceans, while the deckhand assists with vessel maintenance and deck operations. Both positions are entry-level, ideal for those starting a maritime career in the shipping industry.

Can I work on a ship with no experience?

For a summer entry-level cargo ship position, prior experience is not always required, as many companies provide on-the-job training for new hires. However, basic physical fitness, a willingness to learn, and sometimes certifications like STCW may be necessary to qualify for entry-level roles. Having some knowledge of safety procedures and teamwork can also be beneficial.

How do I get into working on a cargo ship?

To work as a cargo ship crew member, you typically need to obtain relevant certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping), gain maritime experience, and meet age and health requirements. Applying through shipping companies or maritime recruitment agencies is common, and positions often require physical fitness and the ability to work in a team environment.

How to join ship jobs with no experience?

To join a summer entry-level cargo ship position with no experience, applicants should focus on obtaining basic maritime safety certifications such as STCW, demonstrate physical fitness, and be willing to start in entry-level roles like deckhand or steward. Gaining knowledge of ship operations and showing a strong work ethic can improve chances of hiring, even without prior maritime experience.

Can I work on a cargo ship with no experience?

Entry-level cargo ship positions often do not require prior experience, but applicants typically need a valid maritime or safety certification such as STCW. Basic skills in teamwork, physical fitness, and the ability to work in a maritime environment are important, and on-the-job training is usually provided for new hires.
More about Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs
What cities are hiring for Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs? Cities with the most Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship job openings:
What job categories do people searching Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs are:
Summer Entry Level Cargo Ship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Entry Level 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.
Entry-Level Engineering - Wiper/Conveyorman

Entry-Level Engineering - Wiper/Conveyorman

Interlake Steamship Company

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

A Wiper or Conveyorman may either be an experienced or entry level unlicensed position working primarily in the shipboard Engineering Department. Primary responsibilities may include maintaining and operating the vessel cargo handling system as a Conveyorman, or assisting the shipboard Engineering Department with daily maintenance and operations of engineering spaces and systems as a Wiper. Additional responsibilities are listed below based on the type of role filling.

A wiper may be required to work in any shipboard department, including Deck, Engine, or Galley based on the needs or the vessel.

Primary Responsibilities:

Conveyorman:

  • Responsible to the First Assistant Engineer for maintaining the cargo handling system as well as overseeing the cargo handling system during cargo operations
  • Familiarity with the company Safety Management System (SMS)
  • Report to the First Mate for cargo issues other than equipment
  • Monitoring and tracking of all cargo handling equipment, including reporting equipment, spare part, and consumable cargo handling equipment needs to the First Assistant Engineer
  • Responding in accordance with the duties listed on the Station Bill
  • Employee must understand commands, both written and verbal, in English

Wiper:

  • Assists the Engine Department in the maintenance and operation of the main propulsion plant and auxiliary machinery
  • Responsible for general sanitation/cleaning of all engineering spaces, including bilges
  • The wiper will also assist in maintenance of the cargo handling system including:
    1. Greasing
    2. Stenciling
    3. Checking nuts and bolts
    4. Cleaning (coolers, speed reducers, air filters, take-up hydraulic units, etc.)
    5. Inspecting wear plates, scrapers, pulleys
    6. Other duties as organized by the conveyorman
  • Able to work as a “day worker,” living and working seven days a week in a shipboard environment with potentially irregular and prolonged hours. These duties are performed in all weather conditions
  • Respond in accordance with the duties listed on the Station Bill.
  • Employee must understand commands, both written and verbal, in English

Credential, License / Endorsement, and Certificate Requirements:

  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsement as a 'Wiper'
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate
  • Valid U.S. DOT Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Ability to pass a preemployment drug screen and participate in a random testing program