Individuals working on cargo ships in the United States can expect to earn an average of $21.06 per hour, though actual wages can vary significantly based on experience, role, and employer.
Understanding Cargo Ship Wages
The compensation for those employed on cargo ships in the United States reflects a broad range of hourly rates. As of December 15, 2024, the typical pay for a cargo ship worker averages around $21.06 per hour. However, this figure is an average, with earnings potentially going as high as $36.00 per hour for experienced professionals in certain roles, and as low as $13.46 per hour for entry-level positions.
The majority of cargo ship positions see hourly wages falling between $16.35 and $24.04. This range represents the 25th to 75th percentile, indicating that a significant portion of workers earn within these boundaries.
Hourly Wage Breakdown for Cargo Ship Workers (United States)
| Pay Statistic | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Average Hourly Pay | $21.06 |
| Highest Hourly Pay | $36.00 |
| Lowest Hourly Pay | $13.46 |
| 25th Percentile | $16.35 |
| 75th Percentile | $24.04 |
Data as of December 15, 2024, based on US salary information.
Factors Influencing Pay
While the figures above provide a snapshot, several key factors can influence how much an individual on a cargo ship earns:
- Role and Responsibilities: Officers (e.g., Captains, Chief Mates, Engineers) generally earn significantly more than ratings (e.g., Able Seamen, Ordinary Seamen, Cooks). Specialized roles or those requiring specific technical skills may also command higher salaries.
- Experience Level: More years of experience, a strong performance record, and leadership capabilities can lead to higher pay and better career opportunities.
- Type of Vessel: The kind of cargo ship (e.g., container ship, bulk carrier, tanker, liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel) and its size can impact crew wages. Specialized vessels often require specific expertise.
- Company and Flag State: Different shipping companies have varying pay scales, benefit packages, and operational models. The ship's flag state (the country where it is registered) can also influence labor laws, union agreements, and compensation standards.
- Route and Duration of Contracts: International routes, voyages through high-risk areas, or longer contract durations might offer higher compensation or additional hazard pay.
- Certifications and Licenses: Holding specific, advanced maritime certifications, licenses, or endorsements (e.g., STCW certifications, advanced firefighting, medical first aid) can significantly increase earning potential and open doors to higher-paying roles.
For more detailed information on specific roles and current salary trends within the maritime industry, reputable sources like ZipRecruiter provide up-to-date salary data for various positions.
