Position
Salary

How much does a Dock Worker make?

The average salary for a Dock Worker is $44,704 per year in the US.

Dock workers play a crucial role in the economy, ensuring goods move smoothly from ships to warehouses. On average, a dock worker earns about $44,704 per year. This average salary reflects the importance of their job and the physical demands of the work.


The salary range for dock workers varies from $26,960 to $59,800 annually. Many factors affect the exact salary, including experience, location, and the type of goods handled. Entry-level workers start at the lower end of the scale, while those with more experience can earn more. Dock workers in larger ports or those handling high-value goods often see higher pay. Some workers also receive benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans, adding to their overall compensation package.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Dock Worker?

Dock workers can find some of the highest salaries in Manchester, NH, where the average salary reaches about $58,209. In Seattle, WA, and Greensboro, NC, dock workers earn around $50,000 annually. Other cities with competitive pay include Raleigh, NC, and Fargo, ND, both offering salaries close to $50,000.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Dock Worker jobs, highlighting Manchester, NH with the highest at $58,209 and Toledo, OH with the lowest at $49,557.
  1. Manchester, NH
    Average Salary: $58,209
    In Manchester, NH, workers find steady employment at key companies like BAE Systems. The city’s port is a busy hub with many opportunities. Being flexible with shifts is key to thriving in this environment.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in Manchester, NH


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $50,391
    Seattle's waterfront provides many jobs at ports run by major companies. The city’s vibrant economy offers good career growth. Workers often appreciate the fresh air and the chance to see cargo ships up close.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Greensboro, NC
    Average Salary: $50,318
    Greensboro, NC, has several big companies hiring, like Hanesbrands. This city has a mix of urban and rural, with plenty of work. The area is known for its friendly people and good community life.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in Greensboro, NC


  4. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $50,084
    In Raleigh, NC, many work at well-known companies such as CSX. The job involves handling goods and working outdoors. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with its growing tech sector and laid-back atmosphere.
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  5. Fargo, ND
    Average Salary: $50,048
    Fargo, ND, offers good dock jobs at companies like Cargill. The city’s port plays a big role in regional trade. Workers value the city's affordability and strong sense of community.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in Fargo, ND


  6. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $49,901
    Portland, OR, is known for its bustling port with many opportunities at places like Oregon International Port of Portland. The city offers a mix of urban and natural beauty. Many workers enjoy the outdoor activities available.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in Portland, OR


  7. Knoxville, TN
    Average Salary: $49,882
    In Knoxville, TN, jobs are plentiful at major companies such as Pilot Flying J. The area is a key transportation center. Workers benefit from a lower cost of living and a strong community feel.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in Knoxville, TN


  8. Birmingham, AL
    Average Salary: $49,864
    Birmingham, AL, has a busy port with many opportunities at companies like Southern Company. The city’s economy offers various job options. Workers often appreciate the city’s southern charm and welcoming environment.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in Birmingham, AL


  9. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $49,589
    San Jose, CA, has a vibrant port with jobs at major companies like Schneider. The area’s tech industry provides many growth opportunities. Workers enjoy a high quality of life and diverse community.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in San Jose, CA


  10. Toledo, OH
    Average Salary: $49,557
    Toledo, OH, offers many jobs at companies like Libbey. The port is a key part of the local economy. Workers value the city’s affordability and family-friendly atmosphere.
    Find Dock Worker jobs in Toledo, OH

What are the best companies a Dock Worker can work for?

Estes Express Lines offers one of the highest average salaries for dock workers, at nearly $55,000. Peninsula Truck Lines, Inc. also provides a competitive salary close to $52,500. HP Hood, Carlile Transportation, and Old Dominion Freight Line follow closely, each providing a salary that stands above $50,000. Exploring these companies can offer job seekers the opportunity to earn a good living in this industry. Dayton Freight Lines, Inc. and NORTH PARK TRANSPORTATION also offer salaries above $46,000, making them strong options as well. Each of these firms values dock workers, which shows through their compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Dock Worker jobs, highlighting Estes Express Lines with the highest at $54,922 and BSP Trans., Inc. with the lowest at $43,343.
  1. Estes Express Lines
    Average Salary: $54,922
    Estes Express Lines is a top choice for Dock Workers. This company offers stable job opportunities with competitive salaries. They operate across North America, with major hubs in the Midwest and California. Their focus on safety and employee development makes it a great place to work.


  2. Peninsula Truck Lines, Inc.
    Average Salary: $52,500
    Peninsula Truck Lines, Inc. is another leader in the industry. This company provides good pay and benefits for its Dock Workers. They operate from the East Coast to the Midwest, offering various roles that are crucial for their logistics operations.


  3. HP Hood
    Average Salary: $52,496
    HP Hood offers attractive salaries for Dock Workers. They are known for their quality products and strong company culture. Operating in New England and the Mid-Atlantic states, they provide rewarding jobs in dairy logistics.


  4. Carlile Transportation
    Average Salary: $50,819
    Carlile Transportation provides good pay for Dock Workers. They focus on safety and employee growth. Operating from Michigan to Florida, they offer various roles essential for their logistics network.


  5. Old Dominion Freight Line
    Average Salary: $50,483
    Old Dominion Freight Line offers competitive salaries for Dock Workers. They focus on safety and efficiency. They operate across the entire United States, providing many opportunities for career growth.


  6. Ward Trucking
    Average Salary: $50,028
    Ward Trucking offers good salaries for Dock Workers. They focus on customer satisfaction and safety. Operating from California to the East Coast, they provide many job opportunities.


  7. Dayton Freight Lines, Inc.
    Average Salary: $46,600
    Dayton Freight Lines, Inc. offers fair pay for Dock Workers. They focus on quality service and employee satisfaction. They operate in the Midwest and East Coast, offering various roles.


  8. NORTH PARK TRANSPORTATION
    Average Salary: $46,338
    NORTH PARK TRANSPORTATION provides fair pay for Dock Workers. They focus on safety and customer service. Operating in the Midwest, they offer many job opportunities.


  9. Dohrn Transfer Company
    Average Salary: $46,111
    Dohrn Transfer Company offers good salaries for Dock Workers. They focus on safety and efficiency. Operating from North Dakota to the West Coast, they provide various roles.


  10. BSP Trans., Inc.
    Average Salary: $43,343
    BSP Trans., Inc. offers fair pay for Dock Workers. They focus on safety and customer satisfaction. Operating in the Northeast, they provide many job opportunities.

How to earn more as a Dock Worker?

Dock workers play a crucial role in keeping supply chains moving, and with the right strategies, they can increase their earnings. One way to earn more is by gaining experience and mastering various tasks. As a dock worker gains more experience, they become faster and more efficient, which can lead to higher pay. Another factor is seeking out opportunities for overtime work. Many dock jobs offer overtime pay, which can significantly increase earnings. Additionally, obtaining certifications in specialized equipment or safety procedures can lead to higher pay rates. Continuing education and training can open doors to better-paying positions. Lastly, maintaining a good work record and developing strong relationships with supervisors can lead to promotions and raises.

To earn more as a dock worker, consider these important steps. First, develop skills in operating heavy machinery and handling cargo safely. Second, work during peak times when there is a higher demand for labor, often leading to more hours and higher pay. Third, seek out companies with comprehensive benefits and pay structures. Fourth, consider working in high-demand locations like major ports or logistics hubs. Lastly, stay informed about industry trends and salary benchmarks to ensure fair compensation. By focusing on these factors, dock workers can enhance their earning potential.

Investing in personal development can also lead to higher earnings. Attending workshops, training sessions, and acquiring new skills can make a dock worker more valuable. Networking with colleagues and industry professionals can lead to job opportunities with higher pay. Being punctual, reliable, and having a positive attitude can also set a dock worker apart, making them a top candidate for higher-paying roles.

  1. Gain experience and master tasks
  2. Seek overtime opportunities
  3. Obtain certifications
  4. Continue education and training
  5. Maintain a good work record

Currently 301 Dock Worker job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Dock Worker in the US?

Learn what a Dock Worker does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Dock Worker today.
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Dock Worker
301 Job Openings