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Working On Cargo Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ramps Logistics LLC

Warehouse Supervisor

Doral, FL · On-site

$3.5K - $4.0K/mo

Experience working in warehousing and 3PL/4PL environments Technologically Savy- able to understand ... quality control checks on cargo condition; escalate discrepancies (damage, missing pieces ...

Ramps Logistics LLC

Warehouse Supervisor

Doral, FL · On-site

$3.5K - $4.0K/mo

Experience working in warehousing and 3PL/4PL environments Technologically Savy- able to understand ... quality control checks on cargo condition; escalate discrepancies (damage, missing pieces ...

Damco Spain SL

Ship Superintendent

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

... vessels on all operational and technical matters at all times including readiness for cargo ... Working in operational areas with noise, moving machinery, and variable weather conditions ...

U.S. Army Reserve

Cargo Specialist, 88H (94550)

Livermore, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

... on Kalmar RT240 Rough Terrain Cargo Handler (RTCH), the All-Terrain Lifter Army System (ATLAS 10K), the 40-ton Mobile Crane, and the ship/shore mounted Hagglund Crane. Your job experience may qualify ...

U.S. Army Reserve

Cargo Specialist, 88H (94550)

Livermore, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

... on Kalmar RT240 Rough Terrain Cargo Handler (RTCH), the All-Terrain Lifter Army System (ATLAS 10K), the 40-ton Mobile Crane, and the ship/shore mounted Hagglund Crane. Your job experience may qualify ...

U.S. Army Reserve

Cargo Specialist, 88H (94550)

Livermore, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

... on Kalmar RT240 Rough Terrain Cargo Handler (RTCH), the All-Terrain Lifter Army System (ATLAS 10K), the 40-ton Mobile Crane, and the ship/shore mounted Hagglund Crane. Your job experience may qualify ...

U.S. Army Reserve

Cargo Specialist, 88H (94550)

Livermore, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

... on Kalmar RT240 Rough Terrain Cargo Handler (RTCH), the All-Terrain Lifter Army System (ATLAS 10K), the 40-ton Mobile Crane, and the ship/shore mounted Hagglund Crane. Your job experience may qualify ...

QSL

Longshoreman (On Call)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30.55/hr

Enthusiasm for hands-on outdoor work, including tasks on the dock and within ship holds ... Experience working at heights and in confined spaces is an asset * Ability to obtain a TWIC which ...

Everts Air

Cargo Agent

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$20/hr

Cargo Agents are responsible for following all Everts Air Cargo (EAC) policies and procedures while ... Operate company equipment while working on the ramp and safely and efficiently loading EAC aircraft ...

QSL

Longshoreman (On Call)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30.55/hr

Enthusiasm for hands-on outdoor work, including tasks on the dock and within ship holds ... Experience working at heights and in confined spaces is an asset * Ability to obtain a TWIC which ...

QSL America

Longshoreman (On Call)

Chicago, IL · On-site

Enthusiasm for hands-on outdoor work, including tasks on the dock and within ship holds ... Experience working at heights and in confined spaces is an asset * Ability to obtain a TWIC which ...

Everts Air Cargo

Cargo Agent

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$21/hr

Will be working with other staff members as a team member contributing to the overall success of ... tasks on and for aircraft. * Responsible for maintaining a clean and organized ramp, freight ...

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Working On Cargo Ship information

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$13

$21

$36

How much do working on cargo ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for working on 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 does working on a cargo ship involve?

Working on a cargo ship typically involves tasks related to the operation, maintenance, and navigation of the vessel, as well as the handling and management of cargo. Crew members may work in various roles, such as deck officers, engineers, or stewards, each with specific responsibilities. Life onboard can be demanding, involving long hours, shift work, and extended periods away from home. Safety is a top priority, and all crew members must adhere to strict regulations and procedures. The job also offers opportunities to travel and experience different parts of the world.

What are some common challenges faced by crew members working on a cargo ship?

Crew members on cargo ships often face challenges such as extended periods away from home, adapting to a multicultural team, and working irregular hours due to changing time zones and port schedules. The work can be physically demanding, with responsibilities including cargo handling, maintenance, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for smooth operations, especially during loading and unloading or in emergency situations. Adapting to life at sea requires resilience, but it also fosters strong camaraderie among the crew.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive while working on a cargo ship?

To thrive while working on a cargo ship, you need maritime certifications (such as STCW), knowledge of navigation, cargo handling, safety regulations, and physical fitness. Familiarity with shipboard systems, navigation equipment, cargo management software, and safety gear is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing long voyages and working in confined, multicultural environments. These competencies ensure safe, efficient vessel operations and help maintain the well-being of both crew and cargo during extended periods at sea.

What is the difference between Working On Cargo Ship vs Deckhand?

AspectWorking On Cargo ShipDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Maritime CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Maritime Certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard cargo ships, open sea, variable conditionsOnboard ships, deck area, outdoor environment
Job ResponsibilitiesCargo handling, safety procedures, maintenanceDeck maintenance, mooring, cargo operations
Industry UsageShipping, freight transportShipping, freight transport

Both Working On Cargo Ship and Deckhand roles require similar certifications and work environments, focusing on safety and cargo operations. While Working On Cargo Ship may encompass broader responsibilities, deckhands are primarily involved in deck maintenance and cargo handling. Both positions are essential in the shipping industry and often overlap in daily tasks.

Can I work on a cargo ship with no experience?

Working on a cargo ship typically requires some training or certification, such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping), but prior experience is not always necessary for entry-level positions like deckhand or steward. Employers often provide on-the-job training, and physical fitness, teamwork skills, and a willingness to learn are important for starting a career in maritime shipping.

How do I get into working on a cargo ship?

To work on a cargo ship, 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, crewing agencies, or maritime job boards is common, and physical fitness and the ability to work in a team are important skills.

How much money do you make working on a cargo ship?

Working on a cargo ship typically offers a salary ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 per month, depending on the position, experience, and the shipping company. Crew members such as deck officers, engineers, and ratings are paid based on their rank and contract terms, often with additional benefits like room and board included during voyages.

Is working on a cargo ship a good job?

Working on a cargo ship is a demanding job that involves long periods at sea, often with extended time away from home. It offers opportunities for travel, experience in maritime operations, and can provide competitive pay, but it also requires physical endurance, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those interested in maritime work and willing to handle the challenging environment.
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Working On Cargo Ship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working On Cargo Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Vessel Traffic Management Specialist

US Department of Homeland Security

Port Arthur, TX • On-site

$74K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

U.S. Department Of Homeland Security rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

100th of 297 rated public sector bodies

Job description

This vacancy is for a GS - 2150 - 11, Vessel Traffic Management Specialist located in the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard, USCG MARINE SAFETY UNIT PORT ARTHUR in PORT ARTHUR, Texas and Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur, Texas.Qualifications:

Basic Requirements: This position has a positive Education Requirement in addition to at least one year of Specialized Experience or substitution of education for experience or combination (if applicable) in order to be found minimally qualified. Transcripts must be submitted with your application package. You MUST meet the following requirements:
EDUCATION:

Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study - accounting, business administration, business or commercial law, commerce, economics, engineering, finance, industrial management, statistics, traffic management, transportation, motor mechanics, nautical science, marine affairs, marine engineering, marine transportation, or other fields related to the position. For Marine Transportation Specialist positions, education obtained in a Federal, State, or other accredited Merchant Marine Academy is qualifying.

or

EXPERIENCE:

General Experience (for GS-5 positions): For positions in this series other than Marine Transportation, experience that provided a general knowledge and understanding of traffic or transportation programs or operations. For Marine Transportation positions, experience must have been related to determining the terms and conditions for shipping cargo, coordinating storage, scheduling and shipment of goods and ship logistic requirements, such as berths, bunkers, crane service, and computing costs for cargo shipment.

Specialized Experience (for positions above GS-5):
  1. Planning, directing, and supervising cargo or bulk petroleum movements such as:
    • Embarkation and debarkation, cargo loading and discharge.
    • Formulating marine transportation itineraries and routings according to commercial cost factors and tariffs.
    • Formulating marine transportation traffic plans for personnel and cargo.
    • Scheduling ships.
    • Developing, analyzing, or evaluating cargo lift capabilities.
    • Preparing statistics for planning operations of ships, or formulating budgetary estimates of cargo transportation costs.
    • Serving as a licensed merchant marine deck or engine officer or naval deck or engine officer.

    or

  2. Ship chartering negotiation or administration, such as:
    • Chartering commercial ships and space.
    • Reviewing and approving ship operating and damage expenses and marine insurance premiums.
    • Investigating ocean carrier claims for ship damage.
    • Reviewing and recommending action on cargo shortage and damage claims.
    • Analyzing and applying appropriate precedents and regulations.
    • Establishing rates with commercial carriers for special cargoes according to market conditions.
    • Analyzing statements of ship operating costs, and preparing estimates to adjust rates or determine the most economical method of transportation.

AND (in addition to the above requirement)
To qualify at the GS-11 grade level, your resume must demonstrate at least one (1) full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 grade level in the federal sector. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the ability, skill, and knowledge to successfully perform the duties of this position and is typically in or related to this line of work. Examples of specialized experience include performing the following types of tasks on a regular basis.

  • Working in a maritime transportation operations center applying Federal, State, and municipal regulations governing vessel movement and port safety
  • Independently gather and analyze navigation and traffic data to assess risk, determine safe routing, and support operational decisions
  • Interpret and apply directives and policies to develop and disseminate real-time safety guidance to participating vessels
  • Coordinate traffic management actions with supervisory personnel and partner agencies to ensure compliance and maintain efficient vessel flow
NOTE: All experience statements (i.e., duties, specialized experience, or related applicable assessment) copied from this announcement and pasted into your resume will not be considered as a demonstration of your qualifications for this position.
NOTE: Education cannot be substituted for experience at this grade level.
National Service Experience (i.e., volunteer experience): Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:This position does not have a positive education requirement. If you are including education on your resume, report only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. See Required Documents section for detail.
Are you qualifying based on education? Submit a copy of your college transcript (unofficial is acceptable) from an accredited institution. Once selected & prior to appointment, applicants must provide an official college transcript. Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet Federal qualification requirements if you can show that your foreign education is comparable to education received in accredited educational institutions in the U.S. (see FOREIGN EDUCATION below).
College Transcript: If this position requires specific educational course work to qualify, or you are qualifying based in whole or part on education, you are required to provide all unofficial transcripts (undergraduate, graduate, etc.) by the closing date of this announcement or you will be disqualified from further consideration. Transcripts should be legible and detailed, showing course number and department (i.e., bio 101, math 210, etc.), course title, number of credit hours, and grade earned. If course content cannot be easily identified from the title of the course as listed on your transcript, you must submit an official course description from the college/university that reflects the content at the time the course was taken.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet Federal qualification requirements if you can show that your foreign education is comparable to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States. To receive this credit, you must submit evidence of equivalency as provided by a credentialling evaluation service. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence with your application. See Recognition of Foreign Qualifications click here
Only experience and education obtained by the closing date of this announcement will be considered.Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Homeland Security employees say

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About U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a federal agency operating within the government services industry in Washington, DC, US. Established in 2003, the DHS is directly responsible for public security, roughly comparable to the interior or home ministries of other countries. Its main responsibilities include protecting the United States from and responding to terrorist attacks, man-made accidents, and natural disasters. Through its more than 20 component agencies including Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, it ensures the safety of the US through numerous programs and initiatives. The DHS upholds a core value system with the mission of safeguarding the American people, our homeland, and values. Notably, the DHS plays a critical role in the spectral range of activities to prepare, prevent, and respond to possible threats to the US.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003

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