How Much Does A Ship Loader Make in the United States ? (2026 Salary Guide)

Ship Loader Salary in the United States

As of July 01, 2026, the average annual salary for Ship Loader in the US is $39,785, equivalent to $19 per hour, $765 weekly, or $3,315 monthly. These figures, sourced from Salary.com’s real-time job posting scans, highlight competitive earning potential for Ship Loader in cities like San Jose, Santa Clara, and San Francisco.

Annually Salaries for Ship Loader in the US vary widely, spanning from $34,558 to $47,953. Most professionals fall between the 25th percentile ($37,049) and 75th percentile ($44,060), while top earners (90th percentile) make $47,953 per year. This $7,011 pay gap underscores opportunities for salary growth through certifications, specialized skills like Customer Service or Housekeeping, or targeting high-paying regions like District of Columbia or California.

Location and experience significantly influence earnings. For example, District of Columbia Ship Loader often earn 10.7% above national averages due to demand from Fortune 57 companies and industry startups. Professionals are advised to focus on high-growth sectors like to offset market challenges.

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Ship Loader Salaries by Percentile
Percentile Salary Location Last Updated
10th Percentile Ship Loader Salary $34,558 US July 01, 2026
25th Percentile Ship Loader Salary $37,049 US July 01, 2026
50th Percentile Ship Loader Salary $39,785 US July 01, 2026
75th Percentile Ship Loader Salary $44,060 US July 01, 2026
90th Percentile Ship Loader Salary $47,953 US July 01, 2026
25% $37,049 10% $34,558 90% $47,953 75% $44,060 $39,785 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click
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What is A Ship Loader ?

A Ship Loader is responsible for the efficient loading and unloading of bulk materials onto ships, ensuring that operations adhere to safety and environmental regulations. This role involves operating heavy machinery, monitoring cargo weight and distribution, and coordinating with dock personnel to optimize loading schedules. Attention to detail is crucial to prevent spillage and ensure cargo integrity. The position may require working in various weather conditions and involves physical labor. Salaries for Ship Loaders can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry, typicall...

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Job Openings for Ship Loader

Career Path for this job

  1. Down a level:

    Materials Handler I

    0 - 1 years experience
    High School Diploma or Technical Certificate

  2. This Job:

    Ship Loader

    1 - 3 years experience
    High School Diploma or Technical Certificate

  3. Up a level:

    Materials Handler III

    3 - 5 years experience
    High School Diploma or Technical Certificate

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Understand the total compensation opportunity for A Ship Loader, base salary plus other pay elements

Average Base Salary

Core compensation

 
 
 
37049
44060
39785

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

 
 
 
40098
49686
44439
These charts show the average base salary (core compensation), as well as the average total cash compensation for the job of Ship Loader in the United States. The base salary for Ship Loader ranges from $37,049 to $44,060 with the average base salary of $39,785. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $40,098 to $49,686 with the average total cash compensation of $44,439.

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37049
44060

 

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Jobs with a similar salary range to Ship Loader : Material Handler II, Material Handling Laborer, Material Processor