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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 Aug 12, 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.

How hard is it to get a job on a summer entry level cargo ship?

Securing a summer entry-level cargo ship position typically requires basic maritime safety training, such as STCW certification, and sometimes prior related experience or physical fitness. Competition can be moderate, and employers often look for motivated candidates willing to work long hours in a demanding environment. Applying early and demonstrating a strong work ethic can improve chances of hiring.

How to get into summer entry level cargo ship jobs?

To secure a summer entry-level cargo ship job, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic physical fitness, and may require certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping). Relevant skills include teamwork, communication, and safety awareness, and applying through shipping companies, maritime training programs, or job boards is common.

Can I work on a summer entry level cargo ship with no experience?

Summer entry-level cargo ship positions often do not require prior experience, but applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass safety training and certifications such as STCW. Basic physical fitness and the ability to work in a maritime environment are also important. Some companies may provide on-the-job training 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 32% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Army Reserves - Cargo Specialist (88H) - 236th Transportation Company Decatur, Illinois

U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion

Decatur, IL

$15 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Work one weekend a month, two weeks a year over the summer in the Army Reserves. The 236th Transportation Company in Decatur, Illinois has multiple vacancies for an entry level Cargo Specialist. You do not require prior training or experience in this career field in order to qualify for this position. If you qualify, you will be given a date to attend the 10 week Basic training followed by the 8 week Advanced Individual Training (AIT). You would receive full time Army pay and Benefits while attending training. 40 Nationally Recognized Certifications are available with this training.

As a Cargo Specialist, you'll be the cargo handling expert for everything the Army moves by land, sea, or air. Youll ensure the Army receives supplies, weapons, the mail, and equipment on a daily basis all over the world. You will be trained in cargo documentation, the securing of cargo, and learn how to load and unload cargo manually or by operating material handling equipment like cranes and forklifts.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS:

-Educational: Tuition Assistance/Reserve Montgomery GI Bill/Student Loan Repayment Program

-Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance

-Earn College Credits from Training and Certifications

-Hiring preferences in Civilian Employment with Partnership for Youth Success Program

-Training and Security Clearances can be used for Civilian Employment

***Disclaimer***

This is a position in the Army Reserves.  In order to qualify you must meet the minimum requirements to enlist in the United States Army.  These include, but are not limited to:

Age between 17-34 years old

Ability to pass extensive background check with no significant law charges (waivers are authorized on a case by case basis)

Ability to pass extensive medical exam to include full panel drug testing to ensure fitness to enlist in the military and attend basic training

Attaining qualifying test scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test (ASVAB)

Required qualifications:
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States
Preferred qualifications:
  • 17 years or older
  • Background check
  • Drug screening
  • Speaks English
  • At least high school diploma or equivalent or higher

Apply