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Union Cargo Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Technician

Kent, WA · On-site

$34.65/hr

Union Pension* * This position is represented by the I.U.P.A.T District Council No.5; this is not a ... cleaning, and ship cargo hold cleaning throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of ...

New

Technician

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$32.53/hr

Union Pension* * This position is represented by the I.U.P.A.T District Council No.5; this is not a ... cleaning, and ship cargo hold cleaning throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of ...

New

Technician

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$32.53/hr

Union Pension* * This position is represented by the I.U.P.A.T District Council No.5; this is not a ... cleaning, and ship cargo hold cleaning throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of ...

New

AMHS - Oiler

Juneau, AK

$32.24 - $40.25/hr

... cargo operations, supporting vessel security, and responding to emergencies as part of the ... Union seniority plays a major role in how the work is assigned and how the bid positions are ...

Showing results 41-44

Union Cargo Ship information

See salary details

$13

$21

$36

How much do union cargo ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for union 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 a union cargo ship?

A Union Cargo Ship job typically involves working on a cargo vessel that is governed by a labor union, ensuring fair wages, benefits, and job security for its crew members. Positions on these ships range from deckhands and engineers to officers and stewards, with responsibilities varying based on the role. Crew members help with navigation, cargo handling, maintenance, and ensuring the safe operation of the vessel while transporting goods globally. Being part of a union also means workers have representation in negotiations for better working conditions and wages.

What are the typical work schedules and living conditions like aboard a union cargo ship?

Union cargo ship crew members often work on rotational schedules, such as several weeks at sea followed by equivalent time off, which allows for extended rest periods between assignments. While onboard, you can expect shared living quarters, communal dining, and access to recreational facilities, with shifts typically structured around a watch system to ensure 24/7 vessel operation. The work environment fosters strong teamwork and close collaboration, as crew members rely on each other to maintain safety and efficiency during voyages. These conditions not only build camaraderie but also provide opportunities for skill development and advancement within unionized shipping lines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the union cargo ship position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Cargo Ship crew member, you need strong maritime skills, experience with cargo handling operations, and a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or equivalent sea certification. Familiarity with navigation equipment, safety systems, and international shipping regulations is essential. Excellent teamwork, communication, and adaptability to variable schedules are valued soft skills. These abilities ensure efficient, safe transport of goods while meeting union standards and maintaining regulatory compliance.

How hard is it to get a job on a union cargo ship?

Getting a job on a union cargo ship typically requires relevant maritime certifications, such as STCW training, and experience in the shipping industry. The hiring process can be competitive, often involving physical exams, background checks, and interviews, but opportunities are available for qualified candidates with the necessary skills and credentials.

How much do you get paid working on a union cargo ship?

Union cargo ship crew members typically earn between $2,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on experience, rank, and the shipping company. Salaries often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and crew members may work on rotational schedules that can involve several months at sea.

How to get into Union Cargo Ship jobs?

To work as a crew member on a cargo ship, candidates typically need relevant maritime certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) and experience in maritime operations. Applying through shipping companies, maritime unions, or recruitment agencies specializing in maritime jobs is common, along with passing medical and background checks. Physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging environments are also important.
More about Union Cargo Ship jobs

What cities are hiring for Union Cargo Ship jobs?

Cities with the most Union 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 Union Cargo Ship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Union Cargo Ship jobs include:

Infographic showing various Union Cargo Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

$34.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

THE JOB
Tidewater Environmental Services, Inc. is hiring a Technician I to join our team in Kent, WA! In this role, you'll provide industrial cleaning services that support the Pacific Northwest's industrial and marine communities. In this position you can expect to be working at heights, entering confined spaces, and operating pressure washers and high-pressure water blasting equipment. A Technician I will be exposed to diverse work environments, including those involving biological and hazardous waste material. We require teamwork, on-call availability, safe work practices, and regular attendance, with additional duties as assigned
This role will:
  • Operate commercial/industrial equipment (i.e. high-pressure washer blasting equipment capable of maintaining pressures to 20,000 psi, blowers, etc.).
  • Perform painting, industrial cleaning, and tank cleaning.
  • Operate non-DOT equipment (i.e. forklift, manlifts, scissor lifts, street sweeper).
  • Maintains and cleans catch basins to ensure that waste is handled in a fully compliant manner.
  • Support stormwater maintenance in coordination with a commercial driver.
  • Performs preventive booming, spill response and clean-up responsibilities.
  • Maneuver hoses, pumps and valves.

Why Work for us?
  • Minimum 30-hour Weekly Guarantee
  • Market- to Above-Market Wages
  • Company Paid Training & Growth Opportunities
  • Prevailing Wage Opportunities
  • Small Teamwork Environment
  • Well-Maintained Equipment and Newer Fleet

THE BENEFITS & PAY
  • Position Wage Range is dependent on experience and qualifications:

o Entry Level or No Experience: $26.03/ hour with an increase after 1040 hours worked
o 1 Year of Experience: $28.63/ hour
o 2 Years of Experience: $31.49 / hour
o 3 Years of Experience: $34.65 / hour
  • Overtime is paid for all weekend work and any work beyond eight hours per day or 40 hours per week.
  • Full-family medical/dental/vision coverage with low premiums
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • Nine holidays
  • 401(k) with 2% Company match, fully vested in match after one (1) year of employment
  • Union Pension*

* This position is represented by the I.U.P.A.T District Council No.5; this is not a seniority-based position.
THE CATCH
  • Be available to work a flexible schedule with up to 14 hour days, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Work at various heights (up to 60 feet) and in confined spaces.
  • Ability to travel throughout the Pacific Northwest region.
  • Work in various work conditions and temperatures.
  • Obtain and maintain a valid TWIC Card in accordance with the Department of Homeland security within 15 days of hire date.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and insurable driving record.
  • Must meet and maintain DOT medical clearance criteria and ability to wear a respirator (no facial hair).
  • Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) required for job site location (i.e. ear plugs, protective eyewear, goggles, life vest, face shield, crush resistant footwear and hard hat).
  • All employment offers are contingent on the successful completion of a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and a criminal and MVR background check

THE COMPANY
Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, with a second location in Kent, Washington, Tidewater Environmental Services, offers a range of services, including industrial cleaning, hazardous and non-hazardous waste transportation, wet/dry vacuum services, tank cleaning, and ship cargo hold cleaning throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of California. We operate seven days a week, 24 hours per day, to serve our customers.
JOIN OUR TEAM!
  • Submit your application at http://www.tidewaterenv.com/careers.

The characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties that may be required for this position. Additional duties are performed by the individuals currently holding this or similar positions and additional duties may be assigned.
Tidewater is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability.