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Union Cargo Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rigger - 1st & 2nd shifts

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

... and cargo booms) • Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks • Booms - Assist with ... Benefits for Union employees are governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), so your ...

Rigger - 1st & 2nd shifts

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $29.50/hr

... and cargo booms) • Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks • Booms - Assist with ... Benefits for Union employees are governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), so your ...

Rigger - 1st & 2nd shifts

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

... and cargo booms) • Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks • Booms - Assist with ... Benefits for Union employees are governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), so your ...

Rigger - 1st & 2nd shifts

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

... and cargo booms) • Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks • Booms - Assist with ... Benefits for Union employees are governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), so your ...

Rigger - 1st & 2nd shifts

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$22 - $28.25/hr

... and cargo booms) • Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks • Booms - Assist with ... Benefits for Union employees are governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), so your ...

Rigger - 1st & 2nd shifts

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.75/hr

... and cargo booms) • Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks • Booms - Assist with ... Benefits for Union employees are governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), so your ...

Rigger - 1st & 2nd shifts

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

... and cargo booms) • Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks • Booms - Assist with ... Benefits for Union employees are governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), so your ...

They are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Union. Duties Some of ... Check ship holds, containers and/or other conveyances to determine fitness for grain cargo and ...

Grain Sampler/Weigher

Longview, WA · On-site

$19.12 - $24.71/hr

They are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Union. The base pay ... Check ship hold, container and/or other conveyance to determine fitness for grain cargo and other ...

Grain Sampler/Weigher

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.23/hr

They are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Union. The base pay ... Check ship holds, containers and/or other conveyances to determine fitness for grain cargo and ...

Grain Sampler/Weigher

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$19.12 - $24.71/hr

They are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Union. The base pay ... Check ship hold, container and/or other conveyance to determine fitness for grain cargo and other ...

Grain Sampler/Weigher

Longview, WA · On-site

$19.12 - $24.71/hr

They are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Union. The base pay ... Check ship hold, container and/or other conveyance to determine fitness for grain cargo and other ...

Grain Sampler/Weigher

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$19.12 - $24.71/hr

They are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) Union. The base pay ... Check ship hold, container and/or other conveyance to determine fitness for grain cargo and other ...

Utility Worker

Deptford, NJ · On-site

$22.79/hr

This is a union role which pays $22.79/hr. This is a split-role position. You will spend part of ... Strong understanding of safety procedures and cargo securement * Ability to navigate local roads ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

... and cargo booms) • Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks • Booms - Assist with ... on (ship/pier) Required Skills and Education Minimum education: 4 to 7 yrs. Minimum relevant ...

... Union of the Pacific represents all unlicensed personnel employed on the Company's US Flag seagoing ... the ship's officers. * Assists in the loading, unloading, stowing and inventory of stores ...

... Union of the Pacific represents all unlicensed personnel employed on the Company's US Flag seagoing ... the ship's officers. * Assists in the loading, unloading, stowing and inventory of stores ...

Showing results 41-60

Union Cargo Ship information

See salary details

$13

$21

$36

How much do union cargo ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 and a merchant mariner credential, along with experience in the shipping industry. Competition can be high, and employers often prefer candidates with practical seamanship skills and safety training. The hiring process may involve physical exams, background checks, and interviews to ensure suitability for the demanding environment.
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 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Rigger - 1st & 2nd shifts-Norfolk,Virginia

BAE Systems

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description
We are hiring Riggers for 1st & 2nd shifts! The Rigger Shop Mechanic performs a variety of skilled mechanical duties involving deck machinery, engine room work, electronic equipment, staging work, testing, steel/pipe work, general dock, rudders, shafting, wheel work, and anchor chain work. The Mechanic operates equipment for assembly and installation; performs preventative and predictive maintenance on facility machinery; records work performed and follows specified safety policies and procedures.
Key Responsibilities & Functional Knowledge:
This list is representative of the key areas of responsibility and functional knowledge required of a mechanic in the rigger shop. A mechanic must demonstrate a developing knowledge of the skills, functional knowledge and abilities required to perform tasks in these and related areas of responsibility.
Developing knowledge means that the mechanic understands how to perform tasks in these categories (including, but not limited to, the specific tasks identified below) and is able to complete them with minimal assistance. This also means that the mechanic has the necessary level of knowledge of the equipment, protective gear, and machinery required to complete these tasks. In some cases, as specified, the mechanic is expected to assist, rather than completing the task independently.
•Anchor Chain Work
•Make metal tags
•Break detachable links (including baldt/kenter style links)
•Transport - load/unload - trailers/pallets (Preferred)
•Read a micrometer
•Assist in counting anchor shots and tags
•Assist in removing and reinstalling bitter ends - open/closed fo'c'sle
•Assist in measuring chain links and detachable links including snap gauge shots
•Wheel Work (Hubs/Blades/CCP System)
•Hook up and operate air falls
•Install and remove blade pallet rig
•Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred)
•Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull
•Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work
•Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement - select gear
•Assist in shaft transporting - trailer/boom dolly
•Shaft Alley Related Shafting Work
•Removal of bulkhead seals
•Deck Machinery Work (work with cranes and cargo booms)
•Wires - Assist with removing/reeve system/blocks
•Booms - Assist with removing /install and proper method/gear selection for ABS quadrennial
•Blocks - Assist with removing /reinstall [ABS quadrennial]
•Testing - Assist with setting up, [navy test] [ABS test]
•B&A crane - Assist with removing /reeve wire ropes
•B&A crane - Assist with boom removal [method/select gear/block/transport]
•B&A Crane - Assist with testing and set up
•Routine Engine Room Work
•Method/gear/route walked
•Proper lashing/rig gear applications
•Small pumps, motors, valves [less than 24"], pipe, vent ducting, etc.
•Install and remove flushing gear
•Main Engine/SSDG Overhaul Work
•Install and remove flushing gear
•Electronic Equipment Inspections
•Complete inspection procedures
•Determine follow up required
•Staging Work
•Must be familiar with the staging procedure
•Must be familiar with proper building practices for the QES/Burke
•Steel/Pipe Related Work:
•Complete steel repair work and or piping work on various areas outside of the engine room
•General Dock-Related Work
•Blocking
•Docking/undocking
•Mooring ships
•Gangway/platforms
•Other various dock-related tasks
•Must be familiar with Hook-on (ship/pier)
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
Minimum education: 4 to 7 yrs.
Minimum relevant education:
Practical Theory Requirements:
A mechanic must demonstrate a developing understanding of naval vessel compartments, number systems and related vessel terminology for the CG, DDG, and LHD ships. Knowledge of job planning and executing, proper gear selection, leading helpers and handypersons with normal supervision.
Other Requirements:
•Must be able to read, write and comprehend simple instructions
•Must be able to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions in written, oral or diagram form
•Must be able to calculate and understand units of measure
•Must be able to wear appropriate protective gear
•Must be able to obtain a government access badge.
This job description does not include all activities, duties or responsibilities required for this position. The key duties, responsibilities and requirements identified in this description are subject to modification by the Company (in consultation with the Union, as appropriate) at any time.
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
High School/Ged
Pay Information
This position is covered under a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which will determine your wages.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life including health and financial well-being. Benefits for Union employees are governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), so your benefits may differ from those described here. Generally, employees are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, which may include military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Platforms & Services
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

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About BAE Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US